Under the burdens of guilt and care

William Leslie (1862–1950) was a Scottish Methodist lay preacher, evangelist, and drapery business proprietor from Paisley, Scotland.

• Lifespan: 1862 – July 1950 (died at age 88 at his home in Broomlands, Paisley).

• Vocation: Worked as the proprietor of a drapery shop in Paisley while serving as an active Methodist and primitive-Methodist lay preacher and evangelist.

• Ministry: Founded a mission in West Campbell Street, Paisley. Prevented from entering formal pastoral ministry due to a medical certificate, he dedicated his life to local preaching and evangelism throughout Scotland and the Highlands.

William Leslie wrote numerous sacred songs and hymns that appeared in various gospel and evangelical hymnals:

• "Abundant Life" (First line: "Under the burdens of guilt and care"): His most widely published hymn, featured in multiple collections including Redemption Songs and Hymns of the Christian Life.

• "The Old, Old Story" (First line: "While others sing their 'songs of love and war'"): Noted as the only hymn he ever sold for money, with proceeds directed to support his Paisley mission.

• "Wash Your Sins Away" (First line: "From Jesus' lips we hear the call"): Published in Redemption Songs (1937).

Lord, thank You for being the Giver of Yourself as eternal, abundant life! You came that we would have life and have it abundantly. Oh, that we would open to You so You could come in as a rushing river of water of life for us!

It's the best song.

Hallelujah!

Life, life, eternal life. What a comforting truth. Thank you Lord, we sinners have received eternal life. Our very soul is being saved from death. Because of this eternal Life of Christ we can share in His joy. He died for the joy set before Him that was His full expression the church. Oh that many more would have this life and join Christ in His joy. Lord we need revived. Lord for a mighty revival in this thirsty land!

Hallelujah!

Additional verse 2 found in The Redemption Hymnal.

2. Bearing our burden of guilt, there came
One Who is strong to deliver,
Bringing to men through His Wondrous Name,
Life "more abundant" for ever.