Leaning

“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”—Deuteronomy 33:27

Anthony Showalter received a letter from two of his former singing-school pupils who had each experienced personal tragedy. While writing them a message of consolation, one of the Scripture passages he quoted inspired him to create a song.

Showalter began to write a hymn called “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.” His focus was on the word leaning, summarizing the ways Jesus supplies the help we need, encourages, and provides relief.

He wanted his friends to realize that Jesus was with them and invited them to trust Him completely, to lean on Him for the comfort and strength they needed.

Showalter wrote the basic tune and the words, which became the chorus: “Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; leaning on the everlasting arms.” But Showalter called on his friend Elisha Hoffman to complete the verses for the hymn.

Hoffman grasped the essence of Showalter’s concept, describing the joy that is ours as we lean on Jesus. As we trust Him, He can guide us with a brightness that lights our path. He can replace our fears and worries with the sweetness of His presence. He can give us peace that passes understanding. Because He is near, we have nothing to fear.

No matter what you go through, Jesus is by your side. Lean on Him for wisdom and strength, peace and guidance—everything you need.

Reflection Question: What difficult circumstances are you giving to Jesus as you lean on Him?