Continuation Study of the Book of Psalms
We continue our study of Psalms through the month of August, ending on the 25th with the best known and best loved, Psalm 23. We have learned that the psalms are examples of different ways that we can express ourselves to God and how God responds to us. We can find songs of frustration, fear and lament, along with forgiveness, joy, and thanksgiving.
The hymn “What a friend we have in Jesus” which was
written in 1855 by Joseph Scriven, an Irishman living in Canada, to comfort his
mother back in Ireland. Those words remind us that we, like the Israelites of
old can bring everything in our lives to God, who will be with us through
everything.
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.
May God bless you and keep you through the month of August,
Pr. Ellen