'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

When I was growing up, we went to a private school that was about 30 minutes away from our house. We attended a non-denominational church and my mom, who had grown up Methodist, was bummed we weren't learning hymns. Each day on the way to school we would sing hymns. It really is still such a special memory.

Last week, I was driving in my car and "'Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus" popped into my head. I preceded with misty eyes to sing every word. Then, I wanted to know the story behind these incredible lyrics. Talk about a story....I was crying as I read of this incredible woman's faith. 

Below is the story and the lyrics. 

Louisa M. R. Stead (1850-1917) felt the call to the mission field at an early age. That dream was hindered due to her frail health. At age 25 she married and a year later gave birth to a beautiful baby girl; Lily. Several years after Lily's birth, Stead's young husband suddenly died while trying to save a drowning child. In response to her grief, Stead penned the words to Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus.

Years later, Stead would remarry. She would also realize her dream to be a missionary. Her daughter Lily would continue that dream by also entering the mission field. Stead's life was a testimony to the faithfulness of God.

The words of Stead's poem were put to music by famed musician William J. Kirkpatrick, and subsequently published in several hymnals. The tragedy that prompted the lyrics of Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus has resulted in bringing comfort to many souls, for close to 130 years.

Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
And to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
And to know, 'Thus says the Lord!'

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I've proved Him o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more

O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
And in simple faith to plunge me
'Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Refrain

Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.

Refrain

I'm so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,

Wilt be with me to the end. 

Refrain

The line "O for grace to trust him more" is so powerful to me. Can you imagine writing this after that type of tragedy?! Sometimes I need grace to trust God in the little day to day things, not to mention the major life ups and downs. 

If you don't know this hymn, give it a listen.

Hopefully I will do better about blogging since we are almost out of school. Only 5 more days!!! 

Hope all is well....

XOXO-

EEE