Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. Matthew 13:45-46 KJV

When Francis Havergal wrote these lines, they were not a hymn, but a poem, which she composed most likely during her time of severe illness. The melody we sing was composed two years later by James Mountain. Her lines, “Every joy or trial, falleth from above.” were an expression of her entire confidence, that whatever the outcome of her illness would be, that her life was fully in the hands of God. God Himself, is that merchant in today’s verse. He searched for and found us, then He went and sold all that he had to purchase us with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Now, Jesus gives this peace with God as the Pearl of Great Price to “Those who trust Him wholly and find Him wholly true.” I pray that you will be blessed as you consider the words, no matter your circumstances. May you each have a blessed Thanksgiving tomorrow and rest in God’s peace that was purchased for us with such a great price.

Like a river glorious is God’s perfect peace
Over all victorious in its bright increase
Perfect yet it floweth fuller every day
Perfect yet it growth deeper all the way

Stayed upon Jehovah
Hearts are fully blest
Finding as He promised
Perfect peace and rest

Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand
Never foe can follow - Never traitor stand
Not a surge of worry - Not a shade of care
Not a blast of hurry touch the Spirit there

Every joy or trial falleth from above
Traced upon our dial by the sun of love
We who trust Him fully all for us to do
They who trust Him fully find Him fully true

Francis Havergal lyrics - 1874
 - James Mountain music