Written by Charles Wesley in 1738, "Jesus, Lover of my Soul" is a hymn that is a testament to his love for Jesus. Wesley praises Jesus throughout this hymn as a source of refuge, guidance, and salvation in times of uncertainty and grief. Utilizing wonderful metaphors and imagery, Wesley beautifully illustrates the joy he finds in the love of Jesus despite the tribulations of life.
1 Jesus, lover of my soul,
let me to thy bosom fly,
while the nearer waters roll,
while the tempest still is high;
hide me, O my Savior, hide,
till the storm of life is past;
safe into the haven guide,
O receive my soul at last!
2 Other refuge have I none;
hangs my helpless soul on thee;
leave, ah! leave me not alone,
still support and comfort me.
All my trust on thee is stayed,
all my help from thee I bring;
cover my defenseless head
with the shadow of thy wing.
3 Plenteous grace with thee is found,
grace to cover all my sin;
let the healing streams abound;
make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art;
freely let me take of thee;
spring thou up within my heart,
rise to all eternity.
The Story Behind Jesus, Lover of My Soul
Written in 1738, within months of being converted to Christianity, Charles Wesley titled this piece "In Temptation." First published in 1740 as a poem, it was not paired with a hymn tune nor included in a hymnal until 1797, nine years after the author's death in 1788.
Within a few decades, the hymn was to become one of the most popular and influential hymns sung in churches of all denominations. To date, it has been included in more than 2600 hymnals.
This hymn was a favorite of many great leaders and continues to speak to hearts today. The renowned Baptist preacher Charles Spurgeon, while holding meetings at Exeter Hall in London, opened the service with "Jesus, Lover of My Soul."
Popular Hymn Lyrics with Story and Meaning
Day by Day and With Each Passing Moment
Jesus Loves Me
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
Blessed Assurance
Nearer My God to Thee
Abide with Me
His Eye is On the Sparrow
Be Thou My Vision
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty
Amazing Grace
