What a friend we have in Jesus

It appears to me most people love to complain or grumble. People complain about work, school, spouse, parents, children, manager,employees, food, clothing, shelter, finances, along with an assortment of other problems.

Trials are the normal experience of human life. None of us is exempted. They perplex and puzzle us. We question "Why has God allow this to happen to me?"

Complaining and grumbling are signs of distrust or lack of faith in God We reveal that we do not believe God’s power and goodness. We do not believe that God is in control, that He will work the situation and hardship out. A heart that trusts God will always seek His help.

One of my favourite hymns is "What a friend we have in Jesus" written by Joseph Scriven.

Joseph Scriven (1820-86) left his birthplace Dublin at the age of 25 and settled in Canada. His life was marked by tragic sadness and he was subject, as a result of to melancholia.

On the eve of the day upon which he was to have been married, the one whom he had chosen as his life partner was accidentally drowned. After his bereavement he consecrated his life to Christ's service among the poor and needy: among other ways, by sawing wood for poor widows and sick people who were unable to pay for this service.

Whilst in delirium as a result of an attack of typhoid he too was accidentally drowned. Over his grave on the shores of Lake Rice stands a white granite monument 12feet high on which are engrave three verses of this song.

What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!

Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised
Thou wilt all our burdens bear;
May we ever, Lord, be bringing
All to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright, unclouded,
There will be no need for prayer—
Rapture, praise, and endless worship
Will be our sweet portion there