Words: , 1851, and (1816-1868); translated from Swedish to English by (1858-1943).
Music: Jag Har En Vån, Swedish folk tune.
If you know know the original title, or where to get a picture of Gustaf Palmqvist or John Jesperson
I have a Friend, so patient, kind, forbearing,
Of all my friends this Friend doth love me best;
Though I am weak and sinful, yet when sharing
His love and mercy I am ever blest.
He is my Lord, my Friend, yea, He’s my Brother;
And Jesus Christ is His most blessèd Name.
He loves more tenderly than any mother;
To rest in Him is more than wealth and fame.
My poor and wretched soul He bought so dearly,
And freed from condemnation, death, and hell;
The old and bitter foe He crushed completely;
My soul, rejoice and sing, for all is well!
Thus I’m redeemed; no more the law prevaileth,
For Christ, the Lord, is my Redeemer’s Name;
His precious blood more than my sins availeth;
And cleanseth me from all my guilt and shame.
With hallelujahs here I’d tell the story,
My Lord to praise, to laud and magnify;
And praise His Name forevermore in glory,
Before His throne with all the saints on high.