What A Friend We Have In Jesus.....

Monday was a rough day for me, as I got call after call from friends....with heavy "issues" going on in their lives. I felt burdened for them, and my mood was downcast. I was preparing to have Bible study friends over and the old hymn, "What A Friend We Have in Jesus," came into my mind. I feel that the Lord put it on my heart! I looked up the lyrics, because the only part committed to my memory was the chorus. Wow! How this song rings true for me and my prayer life at times (much of the time, if I am honest). That night, the group of Bible study women was small, compared to our usual attendance. What a sweet time of fellowship and prayer it was. I believe that the Lord gave me this song, to prepare my heart for an amazing night of talking to Him....taking our burdens to Him...and lifting our requests to Him. What an awesome God we serve! Why don't I view prayer as a privilege all the time? Sometimes, it seems like "more trouble than it's worth." How this must sadden and grieve my Lord. And...the cool thing is that after I walk away from a sweet time of prayer....I feel as if I could have gone on and on. I feel totally, completely blessed. I feel refreshed and renewed. I pray that this song will speak to you as it did me.

WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS:

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.

**If you are looking for some great books on prayer, I suggest....Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire (By Jim Cymbala) and Intercessory Prayer (by Dutch Sheets). I have yet to finish the latter....but what I have read so far is awesome! My friend, Leah, has read it through and it completely changed her prayer life!! Also...my friend, Christy, recommended a book called To Busy Not To Pray (by Bill Hybels). I am planning to pick that one up soon!! If you have any recommendations, please feel free to share them!**