Oremus Hymnal: I've found a Friend; O such a Friend

I've found a Friend; O such a Friend

I've found a Friend, O such a friend!
He loved me ere I knew him;
he drew me with the cords of love,
and thus he bound me to him;
and round my heart still closely twine
those ties which naught can sever,
for I am his, and he is mine,
forever and forever.

I've found a Friend, O such a friend!
He bled, he died to save me;
and not alone the gift of life,
but his own self he gave me!
Naught that I have mine own I call,
I'll hold it for the giver,
my heart, my strength, my life,
my all are his, and his forever.

I've found a Friend, O such a friend!
All power to him is given,
to guard me on my onward course,
and bring me safe to heaven.
The eternal glories gleam afar,
to nerve my faint endeavor;
so now to watch, to work, to war,
and then to rest forever.

I've found a Friend, O such a friend!
So kind and true and tender,
so wise a Counselor and Guide,
so mighty a Defender!
From him who loves me now so well
what power my soul can sever?
Shall life or death, shall earth or hell?
No! I am his forever.

Words: James Grindlay Small, 1863
Music: Friend, Nachtigall
Meter: 87 87 D

Website compiled by Steve Benner, 1999-2003.