What A Friend We Have In Jesus
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Job 19 and Psalm 119:153-160 (NIV)
(Woon Kee Yang, Associate Lay Leader)
READ:
Job 19 and Psalm 119:153-160 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Estranged from his friends and family, in anguish and despair, Job pleaded pity even as his three compassionate-less companions afflicted him with accusations. He remained steadfast in his Redeemer and the hope that He will be with him right till the end (Job 19:25-27), and that he can trust in God’s ultimate justice (Job 19:29).
APPLY:
We have many (types of) friends, and I am thankful for their companionship and advice in times of struggles. Each circumstance is unique, and sometimes, not all advice and criticism are helpful, even if they are meant well.
Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity highlights the enduring nature of true friendship and the unique role of a brother (or sister); supporting and standing by one especially during challenging times.
A friend in need is a friend indeed, reflects what a faithful friend we have in Jesus. Indeed, we can take it to our Good Lord in prayer in whatever trials and tribulations, pain and suffering we may experience; that as we seek, knock and ask, our loving and attentive Father will respond (Luke 11:5-10).
DO:
What kind of friend am I to my friends, loved ones, and those in my community? How do I respond when one in need approaches me?
As I receive advice and criticism, may I with thanksgiving, listen intently, reflect humbly, pray incessantly and act discernibly. May I remain faithful in the midst of suffering, knowing that God is with me, and He will redeem and deliver me (Ps 119:153-160).
May I also be sensitive to the circumstances, show genuine care and concern, love and compassion to those in need of support, so that they too may continue to remember and experience the love of Christ in community.
PRAY:
Let this familiar hymn, whose author’s life was filled with grief and trials, be our prayer:
1 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!
2 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!
3 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 your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he’ll take and shield you;
you will find a solace there.
Author: Joseph Medlicott Scriven (1855)
Musical setting: Charles Converse
https://hymnary.org/text/what_a_friend_we_have_in_jesus_all_our_s
