I Saw One Weary

“I Saw One Weary” is a compassionate and encouraging hymn written by Annie Rebekah Smith around 1852. The hymn reflects the pilgrim experience of the Christian life and offers tender comfort to believers who are tired, discouraged, or burdened along the journey of faith.

The text opens with a vivid picture of a weary traveler pressing forward despite hardship. This imagery reflects the biblical portrayal of believers as pilgrims who must endure trials while keeping their eyes fixed on the promised rest ahead. Weariness is not presented as failure, but as a normal part of faithful perseverance in a fallen world.

A central theme of the hymn is encouragement through example. The weary believer is urged to continue forward by remembering Christ and those who have endured before. This mirrors the exhortation of Hebrews to run the race with patience, looking unto Jesus, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.

The hymn also emphasizes hope rooted in promise. Strength is renewed not through human resolve alone, but through trust in God’s sustaining grace. The assurance of final rest and reward gives meaning to present endurance and transforms suffering into hopeful expectation.

“I Saw One Weary” remains a meaningful hymn for worship settings that focus on perseverance, encouragement, and Christian hope. Its gentle tone, strong scriptural foundation, and pastoral sensitivity continue to speak to believers who press on toward the heavenly home despite weariness along the way.