“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From whence does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” – Psalm 121:1-2
I spent four years in seminary studying the Bible, church history and Theology. One of my favorite subjects to study was the life and teachings of John Wesley. John Wesley was the founder of Methodism. His teachings and life helped to revive the Church in England and brought to life the denomination that helped to bring me to faith. Most Methodist know about John Wesley and his influence on their lives.
John however, was not the only person who worked to bring about revival in England and the spread of Methodism. Most of John’s ministry was shared with his brother Charles. Charles Wesley was not the most well-known of the Wesley family, but the impact of his ministry is still well-know today. Perhaps Charles was not as well-known because he did not preach with the same fire and passion as John. Charles may not be as well-known because his leadership was more behind the scenes. However, Charles influence was significant.
Charles Wesley had many gifts, but perhaps his greatest gift was his ability to write wonderful hymns. In his lifetime Charles Wesley wrote over 9000 poems and hymns. His gift with words has provided Christians with songs to sing for over 200 years. His hymns include “Hark! The Harold Angels Sing,” “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus,” “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today,” and “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing.” Charles Wesley wrote music that truly helped to change the world.
One of the many hymns that Charles Wesley wrote is “Jesus, Lover of My Soul.” This hymn is a beautiful statement of on the caring nature of Christ for the world and our need to be connected to God. The lyrics remind us that, although our world is often filled with trials of many kinds, we can find refuge in the love and hope of Christ.
I want to encourage you to read these two wonderful verses of Charles Wesley’s hymn and be reminded, throughout the day, of God’s great love for you. It is a wonderful prayer, written as song.
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.
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.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
