“Haven of Rest” was written by Henry L. Gilmour (music) and Henry D. Lothrop (lyrics).
Lothrop wrote the lyrics under the pen name H. L. Gilmour, which has sometimes caused confusion with the composer. The hymn was first published in 1890.
Henry Lothrop was inspired to write this hymn after experiencing a storm at sea that led him to reflect on finding safety in Christ.
As a sailor who had experienced the dangers of the ocean firsthand, he created a powerful maritime metaphor for spiritual salvation.
About the Song “Haven of Rest”
“Haven of Rest” is a beloved traditional Christian hymn also known by its line-
“My soul in sad exile was out on life’s sea.”
The hymn employs nautical imagery throughout, comparing life to a turbulent sea and Christ to a safe harbor or “haven of rest” for the weary soul.
The song portrays a path from being lost and storm-tossed on life’s sea to finding peace and security in Christ.
This maritime metaphor would have resonated strongly with audiences in the late 19th century when sea travel was common but often dangerous.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1890 |
| Writers | Henry D. Lothrop (lyrics, as H. L. Gilmour) and Henry L. Gilmour (music) |
| Alternative Title | “My Soul in Sad Exile” |
| Genre | Christian Hymn |
| Theme | Finding peace and salvation in Christ |
| Common Hymnals | Church Hymnal, Baptist Hymnal, various others |
Haven of Rest Lyrics
Verse 1
My soul in sad exile was out on life’s sea,
So burdened with sin, and distressed,
Till I heard a sweet voice saying, “Make Me your choice,”
And I entered the haven of rest.
Chorus
I’ve anchored my soul in the haven of rest,
I’ll sail the wide seas no more;
The tempest may sweep o’er the wild stormy deep,
In Jesus I’m safe evermore.
Verse 2
I yielded myself to His tender embrace,
And faith taking hold of the word,
My fetters fell off, and I anchored my soul:
The haven of rest is my Lord.
Verse 3
The song of my soul, since the Lord made me whole,
Has been the old story so blessed,
Of Jesus who’ll save whosoever will have
A home in the haven of rest.
Verse 4
How precious the thought that we all may recline,
Like John, the beloved and blessed,
On Jesus’ strong arm, where no tempest can harm,
Secure in the haven of rest.
Verse 5
Oh, come to the Savior, He patiently waits
To save by His power divine;
Come, anchor your soul in the haven of rest,
And say, “My Beloved is mine.”
Live Performance
Themes of the Song
‘Haven of Rest’ uses pictures of the sea and a personal story to share important messages about faith and feeling safe with God.
- Divine rescue – The hymn shows salvation as a dramatic rescue. Christ actively seeks those adrift on life’s sea. This emphasizes God’s role in redemption.
- From exile to belonging – Central is the journey from spiritual homelessness to finding rest in faith. It captures our human need for belonging and security.
- Peace amid turmoil – The contrast between stormy waters and calm harbor creates a powerful metaphor. It represents the peace that faith provides even in difficult times.
- Anchored faith – The image of a securely anchored ship represents steadfast faith. Spiritual security doesn’t mean no storms, but stability within them.
- Testimony as witness – By telling a personal account of transformation, the hymn invites listeners to reflect. It prompts them to consider their own spiritual journey.
These themes speak to all spiritual needs. The writer used relatable sea metaphors that resonated with audiences familiar with the uncertainty of ocean travel.
Similar Hymns to “Haven of Rest”
If you appreciate the nautical imagery and themes of spiritual rescue in “Haven of Rest,” here are other hymns with similar motifs:
- “Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me” by Edward Hopper: Another hymn with maritime imagery that asks Christ to guide the believer through life’s stormy seas.
- “Throw Out the Lifeline” by Edwin S. Ufford: A hymn that uses the metaphor of a rescue at sea to represent Christian evangelism.
- “The Lighthouse” by Ronny Hinson: A more contemporary gospel song that uses the image of a lighthouse as a symbol of Christ’s guidance.
- “Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” by Philip P. Bliss: A hymn inspired by a sermon about a ship trying to navigate into harbor during a storm.
Similar Artists
If you appreciate the hymn “Haven of Rest” and its nautical themes of spiritual refuge, you might enjoy these hymn writers and composers:
- Philip P. Bliss – Known for “Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” and other hymns with vivid imagery and emotional resonance.
- Fanny Crosby – Prolific hymn writer who created numerous beloved songs of comfort, including “Safe in the Arms of Jesus.”
- Priscilla J. Owens – Composer of “We Have an Anchor,” which shares similar themes of security in faith amid life’s storms.
Check out more treasured hymns and their stories that continue to shape worship traditions around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Vocal Arrangement Is Most Commonly Used for “Haven of Rest”?
Traditional four-part harmony (SATB) with piano or organ accompaniment that often mimics gentle ocean waves.
Are There Any Notable Recordings or Performances of This Hymn?
Tennessee Ernie Ford, the Gaither Vocal Band, and the Cathedrals quartet have all produced memorable recordings of this beloved hymn.
Has “Haven of Rest” Been Translated Into Other Languages?
The hymn has been translated into Spanish, Korean, Chinese, and various African languages, with its maritime imagery resonating across diverse cultures.
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