Hymn Series: "Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus"

Trusting Jesus in Life's Hardest Moments

Louisa M.R. Stead knew firsthand what it meant to truly trust in Jesus. Born in Dover, England, she placed her faith in Him at the age of nine and pursued a calling as a missionary. But in 1882, her trust in Jesus was put to the ultimate test.

While enjoying a peaceful picnic on the shores of Long Island, New York, Louisa and her daughter, Lily, watched in horror as her husband attempted to rescue a drowning boy. Tragically, both her husband and the boy were lost to the waves. Suddenly widowed and without financial support, Louisa and Lily found themselves in desperate need.

Yet, in their darkest moment, God provided. One evening, just when they were starving and without hope, someone left an abundant meal on their doorstep. That night, overwhelmed by God’s provision, Louisa penned the words to ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus. Her song became a testimony of unwavering faith, a melody of trust in the One who never fails to provide.

Determined to follow her calling, Louisa and Lily later moved to South Africa to serve as missionaries. Even in the face of difficulty, Louisa wrote, “With simple confidence and trust we may and do say, ‘our sufficiency is of the Lord.’”  Her hymn continues to inspire believers worldwide and remains a treasured part of Zimbabwean culture, where Louisa and her family served.

Discussions for the Family:

1. Experience the Global Church: Watch this moving rendition of ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus sung by a Zimbabwean choir: Watch here.
2. Biblical Connection: Read 1 Kings 17:8-16 as a family. How does this story of God’s provision for the widow reflect Louisa Stead’s testimony?
3. Personal Reflection: God calls us to trust Him with all our needs. What are you trusting Him for today? Take time to pray as a family, laying those needs before Him.
4. Faith in Action: Consider the widow in 1 Kings 17. What happened when she chose to trust in God’s provision? Reflect on a time when God provided for your family in an unexpected way.
5. Scripture to Hold Onto: Read these verses throughout the week as a reminder of God’s faithfulness: Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:26; Psalm 81:10; Psalm 34:10; 2 Peter 1:3; Psalm 84:11.

Through Louisa’s story, we are reminded that trusting Jesus is not just about words—it’s about resting in His faithfulness through every trial. May this hymn encourage you to place your trust in Him, knowing He is always sufficient.

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