Is There Anyone to Help Us - Hymn with Lyrics

 

1. Is there anyone can help us, one who understands our hearts,
When the thorns of life have pierced them till they bleed;
One who sympathizes with us, who in wondrous love imparts
Just the very, very blessing that we need?

Refrain:
Yes, there's one, only one.
The blessed, blessed Jesus, He's the one;
When afflictions press the soul,
when waves of trouble roll,
And you need a friend to help you,
He's the one.

2. Is there anyone can help us when the load is hard to bear,
And we faint and fall beneath it in alarm;
Who in tenderness will lift us, and the heavy burden share,
And support us with an everlasting arm? [Refrain]

3. Is there anyone can help us who can give a sinner peace,
When his heart is burdened down with pain and woe;
Who can speak the word of pardon that affords a sweet release,
And whose blood can wash and make as white as snow? [Refrain]

4 Is there anyone can help us when the end is drawing near,
Who will go thru death’s dark waters by our side;
Who will light the way before us, and dispel all doubt and fear,
And will bear our spirits safely o’er the tide? [Refrain]

Scripture; Proverbs 18:24; 1 Peter 5:7

"Is There Anyone to Help Us?" is a Christian hymn that reflects the universal human experience of seeking assistance, comfort, and guidance in times of need. This hymn is commonly associated with themes of divine help, emphasizing the role of Jesus Christ as the ultimate helper and savior. The exact origin and writer of this hymn may not be as well-documented as some other hymns, but it carries profound spiritual truths that have resonated with believers for generations.

Possible Themes and Context

1. The Cry for Help: The hymn begins with a rhetorical question, "Is there anyone to help us?" This mirrors the plea often found in the Psalms, where the psalmists cry out to God in moments of despair, weakness, or uncertainty (e.g., Psalm 121:1–2, "Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord").

2. The Assurance of Divine Help: As the hymn progresses, it answers the question by pointing to Jesus as the One who offers help in every circumstance. This assurance reflects biblical promises like Isaiah 41:10 ("Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God") and Matthew 11:28 ("Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest").

3. Historical Usage: Hymns like this were often written during times of societal upheaval or personal hardship, offering hope and encouragement. It may have been sung in settings such as revival meetings, prayer gatherings, or during times of personal devotion to remind believers of God's constant presence and provision.

4. Practical and Evangelical Purpose: Such hymns also serve an evangelical purpose, encouraging non-believers to consider the sufficiency of Christ as their helper and savior. The repeated question-and-answer structure makes the hymn relatable and accessible to a wide audience.

The hymn "Is There Anyone to Help Us?", often referred to by its refrain "Yes, There's One, Only One," was written by James Bruce Mackay (J. B. Mackay). It is a gospel hymn celebrating the comfort and guidance provided by Jesus in moments of sorrow, struggle, and doubt. The tune, also titled "He's the One," was composed by Mackay as well. This hymn became popular in evangelical traditions and was included in several hymnals, emphasizing its enduring message of faith and hope in Christ.

The hymn was first published in Songs of Praise and Consecration in 1899 and has since been featured in collections like the African Methodist Episcopal Church Hymnal and the New National Baptist Hymnal​