Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting

Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting is a serene and meditative hymn written by Jean Sophia Pigott in 1876. It is a hymn of quiet trust, centering on the believer’s rest in the unchanging love and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. The gentle and contemplative tone of the lyrics reflects a soul at peace, not because of absence of trouble, but because of the presence and faithfulness of the Savior. Its enduring message has brought comfort to countless Christians, and its beauty lies in the deep simplicity of its surrender.

Jean Sophia Pigott was an Irish poet and hymn writer whose short life left a lasting mark on Christian worship. She wrote this hymn at the age of 25. Although much of her work remained relatively unknown, Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting became widely appreciated, especially after being associated with Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission. It was said that this hymn was Taylor’s favorite, and that he often sang it to himself during times of trial and danger in the mission field. The hymn thus gained a reputation not only as a song of devotion but also of spiritual endurance.

The opening line, “Jesus, I am resting, resting in the joy of what Thou art,” immediately expresses the heart of the hymn—a complete surrender to Christ, not by striving but by abiding. This reflects the teaching of John 15, where Jesus calls His disciples to abide in His love. The hymn does not focus on the believer’s feelings or effort, but entirely on the unchanging character of Jesus. Each stanza builds upon this theme, rejoicing in His love, His grace, His beauty, and His faithful care.

In the second verse, Pigott writes of seeing the beauty of Christ, not just through theological truth, but through spiritual perception. The soul is satisfied not with blessings alone, but with Christ Himself. The third and fourth verses continue to describe the deepening rest that comes from knowing Christ more fully. His character is “Thy love so pure, Thy grace so measureless,” and this leads the believer into ever-deepening trust. The hymn beautifully balances doctrine and devotion, celebrating the fullness of Christ and the soul’s response of contentment in Him.

Set to a quiet and expressive melody by James Mountain, the hymn’s tune complements its peaceful message. “Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting” has been treasured not only in private devotion but also in missionary circles, especially where calm assurance is needed amidst trial. Its legacy continues as a timeless expression of what it means to rest in Christ's finished work, to stop striving and start abiding. It offers not escapism, but a deep-rooted peace anchored in the living Christ.