Expressions of religious devotion continue to hold immense significance in the present moment, just as they have throughout history. We hold a deep appreciation for phrases that serve as reminders and sources of inspiration, nurturing our faith. The verses of the timeless hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul," exemplify this purpose by evoking profound faith and unwavering resilience.
Although the lyrics of "It Is Well With My Soul" possess inherent beauty, their true essence becomes even more profound when considered in the context of the challenges endured by its lyricist and the heartfelt emotions that drove their creation. Allow yourself to be blessed and motivated as you delve into the captivating narrative behind this cherished hymn.
Background And Story Behind It Is Well With My Soul
"Mr. Spafford booked passage on the next available ship and left to join his grieving wife. With the ship about four days out, the captain called Spafford to his cabin and told him they were over the place where his children went down. According to Bertha Spafford Vester, a daughter born after the tragedy, Spafford wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" while on this journey"
Unbeknownst to many, the hymn "It Is Well With My Soul," which has captured the hearts of countless individuals, carries a deeply tragic narrative originating from the year 1873. Its lyricist, Horatio Spafford, penned these soul-stirring verses following the devastating loss of his children in a tragic shipwreck.
During a voyage to Europe, Spafford's wife and four daughters found themselves entangled in a collision between ships, resulting in the sinking of their vessel. Tragically, only his wife survived, while his precious four daughters succumbed to the unforgiving depths of the sea.
Prior to this heartbreaking event, the Spafford family had already endured significant hardships. Their young son had passed away from pneumonia, and they had also experienced substantial financial losses due to the destructive Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The ill-fated trip to Europe was intended as a respite for the family, during which they planned to witness the renowned preacher Dwight L. Moody deliver sermons.
It was during Spafford's journey to reunite with his wife that he composed the poignant lyrics of "It Is Well With My Soul." The melody for the hymn was later crafted by Philip Bliss and titled "Ville du Havre," in memory of the ill-fated ship.
In spite of enduring the deepest sorrows imaginable, such as the loss of not one but multiple children, Spafford's unwavering faith in his salvation and the Savior remained steadfast, surpassing any earthly grief or turmoil he faced. His life stands as a testament to the remarkable strength and peace that can be found in our Lord Jesus Christ, offering solace and comfort during times of profound sorrow and unrest.
Horatio Spafford consciously chose the path of peace through his unwavering faith in our Savior, continuously praising Him regardless of the circumstances. His focus transcended the present sorrows, fixating instead on the significance of Christ's sacrifice on the cross.
Following these tragedies, Spafford went on to have three more children, but he was met with further heartache when he lost another son to scarlet fever at the tender age of four. Nevertheless, he persevered and even founded an American colony in Jerusalem. Sadly, Horatio Spafford's life was cut short by malaria in 1888 at the age of 60, and he was laid to rest in the Mount Zion Cemetery in Jerusalem.
It Is Well With My Soul Lyrics
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,When sorrows like sea billows roll;Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,It is well, it is well with my soul.Refrain:It is well with my soul,It is well, it is well with my soul.Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,Let this blest assurance control,That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,And hath shed His own blood for my soul.My sin—oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!—My sin, not in part but the whole,Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:If Jordan above me shall roll,No pang shall be mine, for in death as in lifeThou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,The sky, not the grave, is our goal;Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,Even so, it is well with my soul.
1. Verse 1: "When peace, like a river, attendeth my way"
As the hymn begins, Spafford uses a vivid metaphor of a peaceful river to depict the tranquility that can accompany one's journey through life. The juxtaposition of peace against the challenges and trials faced by individuals sparks introspection and highlights the significance of inner serenity.
2. Chorus: "It is well (it is well) with my soul (with my soul)"
The repetitive nature of the chorus reinforces a strong affirmation of well-being and tranquility. The burstiness of the lyrics captures the conviction and unwavering faith of the author, serving as a powerful reminder of the peace that can be found within one's soul, even in the face of adversity.
3. Verse 2: "Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come"
Here, Spafford acknowledges the presence of difficulties and trials in life. The burstiness of the text reflects the ups and downs that individuals experience, with longer sentences emphasizing the challenges while shorter ones offer hope and resilience. This contrast highlights the enduring faith that remains unshaken despite the storms of life.
4. Verse 3: "My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought"
In this verse, the burstiness of the lyrics intensifies, emphasizing the emotional weight of the author's reflection on the redemptive power of Christ's sacrifice. Longer sentences delve into the complexity of human sin and the profound bliss found in the forgiveness offered through faith.
5. Verse 4: "And, Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight"
The burstiness reaches its peak in this verse as Spafford passionately expresses his longing for the day when faith will be fully realized. Longer sentences convey the eagerness and anticipation, while shorter ones highlight the simplicity of the prayer. This burstiness captures the fervent hope and the depth of trust in God's promises.
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