Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
How many of us are weary? I love the definition of weary that says exhaustion or discontent after a long continuance of something. I know you’re saying, “that’s me”. Who could use someone to help us carry our burdens and heartaches? Do you wish you could use some good rest, mentally, physically and emotionally? If your answer is yes, then I have some good news for you. There is someone who said, I have called you friends. . . John 15:15, His name is Jesus.
In February 1953, the newly elected Dwight D. Eisenhower called for a prayer breakfast with members of the House and Senate for a time of prayer to seek God’s guidance and to express our dependence on Him. Several others were in attendance, among them Billy Graham and George Beverly Shea. George was asked if he would sing the President’s favorite song, What A Friend We Have In Jesus. Although not prepared, he graciously did as requested and asked that everyone join him if they wished to. It was revealed later in a video on the Today Show, that President Eisenhower standing next to George was singing out from his heart, as well as others.
How much do the leaders of our nation today need to know the friendship of Jesus. His kindness, love, grace, mercy, guidance and wisdom. He is our only hope, for Him alone is the only One who can truly transform hearts and minds. Reveal lies and deceptions and bring the truth to light. He alone can heal broken hearts and give comfort to those in distress and bring peace into chaos. This song was written out of gut wrenching sadness by Joseph Scriven upon learning his mother in Ireland was quite ill, after losing two loves in his life through death. He must have wondered if his mother would pass on too, but still he wrote her words of hope and encouragement, that can still bring us a peace today.
What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O 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.
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