“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” -1 John 3:1
Annie S. Hawks was a talented young woman. She had a gift for writing poetry and lyrics. By the age of 14, she was a contributing writer to local newspapers. She would write poetry that was often featured in these publications. Annie’s faith was important to her. As she grew in her love for God, she developed her skills in writing lyrics for hymns. In her lifetime, Annie S. Hawks (1836-1918) would write just over 400 hymns. Her ability to write was remarkable.
Annie was also a devoted wife and mother of three children. Annie would manage their home while continuing to develop her writing skills. One day, while cleaning the house, Annie was overwhelmed with the understanding of how close God is to us and how much we need to draw close to God. Annie would write, “Suddenly, I became so filled with the sense of nearness to the Master that, wondering how one could live without Him, either in joy or pain, these words were ushered into my mind, the thought at once taking full possession of me — ‘I Need Thee Every Hour.'”
The hymn I Need Thee Every Hour is one of the most beloved hymns of the faith. Of the 400 hymns that Annie S. Hawks wrote, this is the one that has endured the test of time. It reflects the deep need of our life to draw close to God. God has first loved us, and our first and greatest commandment is to love God. This is the most important thing.
Our love of God is not merely an occasional, sentimental reflection. Our love of God is an intentional connection with the One who is the source of our hope, joy, and peace. As God’s children, we should look to connect with God in prayer, study, and worship. This opens our hearts and minds to the understanding that God is with us, always. We begin to see God in every moment of the day. The more deliberate we are in seeking God, the more we realize how much we need God. The good news is God is with us, and we have all we need because He loves us.
I need thee every hour, most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like thine can peace afford.
I need thee, O I need thee; every hour I need thee;
O bless me now, my savior, I come to thee.
I need thee every hour, in joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide, or life in vain.
I need thee, O I need thee; every hour I need thee;
O bless me now, my savior, I come to thee.
(Hymn, I Need Thee Every Hour, Annie S. Hawks, 1872)
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
