Isaiah 26:3
You will keep him in perfect peace,
whose mind is stayed on You,
because he trusts in You.
In 1875, Edward H. Bickersteth, Jr., was on vacation. He heard a sermon based on the verse Isaiah 26:3. That very afternoon he visited a dying relative and read the Scripture to him. He then composed the words to the following hymn and read them to his relative, perhaps the last words that the dying man heard.
May we all keep our minds "stayed" on God our Father and trust in Him each day to our last breath.
Peace, Perfect Peace
Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?
The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.
Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?
To do the will of Jesus, this is rest.
Peace, perfect peace, with sorrow surging round?
In Jesus's presence nought but calm is found.
Peace, perfect peace, with loved ones far away?
In Jesus's keeping we are safe, and they.
Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?
Jesus we know, and He is on the throne.
Peace, perfect peace, death shadowing us and ours?
Jesus has vanquished death and all its powers
It is enough: earth's struggles soon shall cease,
and Jesus call us to heaven's perfect peace.
Hi Virginia, I didn't know the story behind the hymn, but thanks for sharing it. I agree, the scripture and the hymn are perfect peace.
ReplyDeletePeace be with you.
GOD bless,
Tiffany