The Story Behind: Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

There are hymns whose messages of hope and comfort resonate through the ages, touching the hearts of countless souls and drawing them closer to their Savior. One such beloved hymn is ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, a song that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire congregations worldwide. The story behind this beautiful hymn is one of tragedy and triumph, an illustration of God’s redemptive power at work. It serves as a testimony to God’s unchanging love amid life’s storms.

The Life and Calling of Louisa M.R. Stead

The author of this treasured hymn was Louisa M.R. Stead, born in England in 1850. As a young girl, she experienced a strong desire to become a missionary. At around 21 years old, she immigrated to America and resided in Cincinnati, Ohio for some time. While attending a camp meeting in Urbana, Ohio, her calling to be a missionary intensified; however, her ambitions to serve in China were hindered by her frail health.

Tragic Drownings Inspire a Timeless Hymn

On a summer day around 1880, Louisa and her husband, George, took their young daughter Lily to Long Island Sound for a picnic outing. While enjoying their day together by the seashore, they were suddenly alerted by cries for help from a young boy struggling against the tide offshore. Without hesitation, Louisa’s husband plunged into the water in an attempt to save him.

Tragically, both drowned as Louisa and Lily watched helplessly from the shore—their world shattered before their eyes; despair threatened to engulf them both after experiencing the terrible loss of their husband and father.

In those darkest moments following loss and grief so profound, Louisa turned to the one constant in her life: her Savior Jesus Christ.

‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus: A Beacon of Hope

As Louisa Stead poured out her heart through prayer and tears, a divine inspiration began to stir within her soul. It was then that the refrain of this hymn was born:

‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
And to know, ‘Thus saith the Lord.’

Through these verses, Louisa expressed her complete reliance on God’s promises and found peace and solace in trusting the Savior who had carried her through every trial. The hymn became a beacon of hope for both Louisa and Lily as they navigated their grief together.

The lyrics were set to music by William J. Kirkpatrick, a Methodist Gospel hymn writer who published over sixty hymnals. It first appeared in Songs of Triumph, published in 1882 by the National Publishing Association for the Promotion of Holiness.

The Enduring Impact and Legacy of the Hymn

The impact of ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus is evident not only by its popularity but also by its ability to touch hearts within churches across cultural barriers. It remains an enduring testament of unshakable faith amid adversity and serves as a reminder that we are never alone when we place our trust in our loving Savior as every Christian believer should.

As you sing or listen to this cherished hymn today, may you find strength and solace in knowing that you have a Savior who loves you deeply and will carry you through every storm life brings your way.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the meaning of the hymn ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus?

The meaning of the hymn ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus lies in its expression of unwavering faith, hope, and comfort found through trusting in Jesus Christ amid life’s challenges and adversities. This hymn serves as a testament to the power of God’s love and support when we lean on Him during difficult times.

Who originally wrote ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus?

‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus was originally written by Louisa M.R. Stead, who was born in England in 1850. She composed the hymn’s lyrics after experiencing a personal tragedy, and her words have been providing comfort and inspiring faith for generations since their creation. The music for the hymn was later set by William J. Kirkpatrick, a renowned Gospel hymn writer.

Where did the song ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus come from?

The song ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus was inspired by Louisa M.R. Stead’s personal tragedy of losing her husband in a drowning accident. She found solace in trusting Jesus and wrote the hymn’s lyrics, which were later set to music by William J. Kirkpatrick. The song was first published in 1882 and remains popular for its message of hope and comfort during life’s challenges.

Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus Lyrics

If you’re touched by the timeless message of ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus and want to explore its lyrics further visit hymndex.com. This website offers a vast collection of hymn lyrics that can help churches create lyric slides for worship.