What A Friend We Have In Jesus

“What a Friend We Have in Jesus” is one of those hymns that feels like a conversation — simple, tender, and full of truth. It reminds us that we don’t have to carry life’s burdens alone. The words speak directly to the heart, offering comfort to anyone who’s felt overwhelmed, anxious, or in need of peace.

The Story Behind the Hymn

The lyrics were written in 1855 by Joseph Scriven, a man who knew sorrow firsthand. Originally from Ireland, he had moved to Canada after the sudden death of his fiancée just before their wedding. Years later, when his mother became ill back in Ireland, he wrote the poem “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and sent it to her as a personal encouragement — never intending it to be published.

The words were later put to music by Charles C. Converse, turning the poem into the hymn we know today. Over time, it became a beloved part of church hymnals around the world. What began as a quiet letter of comfort between a son and his mother has become a song that’s carried millions through grief, loneliness, and worry.

What Makes It Powerful

The beauty of this hymn is in its plainspoken honesty. It doesn’t try to hide the reality of life’s struggles — it names them: trials, temptations, sorrow, and weakness. But instead of despair, it points to Jesus as the One who listens, carries, and understands.

The words “Take it to the Lord in prayer” are repeated like a steady reminder that we don’t have to figure everything out or hold everything in. We have a Friend — not just a helper or teacher, but a true Friend — who walks with us and invites us to bring every burden to Him.

A verse that fits this hymn beautifully is Philippians 4:6–7 (NIV):

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

That’s the very message this hymn carries: don’t hold it in — take it to Him.

My Violin Cover

When arranging this piece for violin, I wanted to keep that open, almost conversational feel. The melody is gentle and familiar, and I aimed to let each note feel like a whisper of encouragement — not heavy or overly emotional, but sincere.

With Violin Hymns, I try to let each song breathe and reflect its heart. This hymn feels personal — like someone sitting down next to you and reminding you that you’re not alone. I hope the simplicity of this arrangement helps that message come through.



Listen and Reflect

The video is below. I encourage you to take a moment, especially if you’ve been carrying something heavy. As the melody plays, reflect on this truth: Jesus is not distant. He is a faithful, loving Friend — and you can bring everything to Him in prayer.

Lyrics

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.