Lover of My Soul

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him.” – Nahum 1:7 NASB

Charles Wesley was attacked when preaching in Ireland in 1740 by men angry about his message. He fled to a nearby farm where the farmer’s wife hid him in the milk house. When the mob arrived, she distracted them with refreshments. This gave her time to direct Wesley to escape through a window and hide by a brook.

With his pursuers close by, Wesley focused on Jesus, realizing he could trust Him. He described how he could hide in Him, “while the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high.” God would hide him “till the storm of life is past; safe into the haven guide.”

Realizing he could trust Jesus, Wesley wrote, “Leave me not alone, still support and comfort me.” He knew God would help him, covering his defenseless head “with the shadow of Thy wing.” He realized Jesus was all he wanted and needed and that in Him he found “grace to cover all my sin.”

Wesley recognized how, during daily life, we can become busy and distracted. But in every situation, we need to remember that Jesus loves us and wants an intimate relationship with us.

The words he wrote that day became the foundation for his hymn “Jesus, Lover of My Soul.”

Spend time with Jesus. Listen to His voice. Linger in His presence. No matter what you face, you can hide yourself in Him! He loves you!

Reflection Question: Reflect on the many ways God shows you His love.