I Need Thee Every Hour

A favorite hymn of mine is, "I Need Thee Every Hour" written as a poem by Annie S. Hawks. Mrs. Hawks wrote the words in response to a feeling of nearness to the Lord. She was a young mother at the time and was overcome by the Spirit. Years later when her husband passed away she was reminded of that time of sweet peace and serenity when she read the words again. 

Robert Lowry added the music and refrain later in 1872. The hymn became well known and commonly used by churches everywhere. The message speaks to all of us who share a dependence on God.

"I need Thee every hour, Most gracious Lord; No tender voice like Thine Can peace afford. I need Thee every hour, Stay Thou near by; Temptations lose their pow'r When Thou art nigh. I need thee every hour In joy or pain; Come quickly and abide or life is vain. I need Thee every hour, Most Holy one; O make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son!"

Refrain: "I need thee, O I need Thee; Every hour I need Thee; O bless me now my Savior, I come to Thee!"

"Hear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to you all day long," (Psalm 86:1-3 NIV).

Lord, be near us this day. Help us depend on you in every hour. Fill us with the Holy Spirit so we may experience the sweet peace and serenity of Your presence. Amen.