Tasha Cobbs Leonard + Natalie Grant - Jesus What A Friend Lyrics
Lyrics
What a friend we have in Jesus
What a friend we have in Him
Ever faithful to the end
Jesus, what a friend
Never failing
Never fading
Oh, Your love remains
Forever loyal
My savior
Jesus, what a friend
Who am I
That You would call me friend
You are closer than the air that I breathe
You are stronger than the grip of my sin
Oh, what a friend
Oh, what a friend
Video
Tasha Cobbs Leonard - Jesus What A Friend (feat. Natalie Grant) (Performance Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Natalie Grant gifted us with a powerful declaration on March 10, 2023, through the performance video release of their collaboration, "Jesus What A Friend." This song arrives as more than just a track; it's an offering, a reminder drawn from the wellspring of faith about the unique and profound relationship available to everyone through Christ. The title itself lays bare the central theme, presenting Jesus not just as a Savior or Lord, but as an intimate companion, a confidant accessible in all seasons of life. The meaning resonates deeply with the Christian understanding that through faith, we gain not only salvation but also a personal, abiding presence—someone who walks with us, understands our struggles, and celebrates our joys.
Delving into the song's message reveals a truth central to New Testament teaching: that Jesus bridges the gap between humanity and divinity, offering a level of closeness previously unimaginable. Scripture teaches us this explicitly; in John 15:15, Jesus tells His disciples, "No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you." This verse powerfully underpins the song's core idea, articulating a shift from a hierarchical servant-master relationship to one of shared knowledge, trust, and affection. The song captures the feeling of this profound invitation to intimacy, painting a picture of Christ as someone you can lean on, confide in, and find unwavering support from, echoing the sentiment of Proverbs 18:24, which speaks of a friend who sticks closer than a brother. It’s about the accessibility of grace and compassion, a friend who is also sovereign.
The beauty of this song lies in how it articulates the tangible benefits of this divine friendship. It speaks to the reality of human struggle—the worries, the burdens, the moments of loneliness or doubt—and contrasts them with the unwavering presence of Jesus. The act of pouring out your heart to God is a consistent theme throughout the Psalms, like Psalm 62:8 which encourages us to "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us." The song encapsulates this refuge, portraying Jesus as the ultimate confidant, the one who not only hears but truly understands because, as Hebrews 4:15-16 reminds us, "we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." He knows our frame, remembers we are dust, and extends mercy and grace precisely when we need it most. This aspect of Christ as a friend who sympathizes is crucial to the song's comforting power.
Musically, the collaboration between Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Natalie Grant is a masterclass in worshipful synergy. Their voices, distinct in their individual strengths, blend seamlessly to elevate the powerful message. Tasha's signature, anointed power brings weight and authority to the declaration of who Jesus is, while Natalie's clear, emotive tone adds a layer of tender vulnerability and personal connection. The arrangement supports the message, building dynamically to emphasize the magnitude of this friendship, but also knowing when to pull back and allow the simple truth to shine through. There’s a genuine warmth and sincerity conveyed through their performance that makes the message feel not just sung, but deeply felt and proclaimed. The instrumentation serves to create an atmosphere of worship and reflection, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the transformative nature of this divine relationship.
Ultimately, "Jesus What A Friend" serves as a potent spiritual anchor in uncertain times. It encourages people connecting with this music to view their relationship with Jesus through the lens of genuine companionship, reminding them that they are never alone. It’s an invitation to experience the peace that surpasses understanding by casting anxieties upon Him (Philippians 4:6-7) and finding rest for their souls (Matthew 11:28-30). The song doesn't just describe friendship with Jesus; it evokes the *feeling* of it—the trust, the relief, the unwavering acceptance. It stands as a powerful testament to the accessible and personal nature of faith, prompting a deeper appreciation for the One who chooses to call us friends.