Why hymns?

To some, hymns are considered “ancient” or “outdated.” But there is something to be found in the old hymns of the faith, the ones that have stood the test of time and encouraged countless hearts over decades or even centuries of time. Their lyrics contain powerful truths and doctrine. Some of them were written during times of intense trouble, when the writers turned to God with a heart full of pain or sorrow, finding comfort in His Word and His presence. Some were used mightily by God during times of great revival. When you know the story behind a hymn or a song, it often becomes far more meaningful.

Many of us know the story behind the hymn, “It Is Well With My Soul.” Horatio Spafford wrote these lyrics as he traveled over the very place where his children had perished only a short time before. In the 2 years preceding this time, he had lost a son to pneumonia, and soon after many of his possessions and much of his property were destroyed or lost in the Great Chicago Fire. After planning a trip to Europe, Spafford's wife and four daughters set sail across the Atlantic Ocean, while Spafford remained behind to attend to business, intending to rejoin them within a few days of landing. But shortly into the voyage, their ship was struck by another vessel and sank within minutes. Of the 313 people aboard ship, 226 of them lost their lives - including Spafford's four daughters. His wife was miraculously saved, and upon her arrival in Wales, sent him a telegram with the chilling words, "Saved alone - what shall I do?" Spafford left immediately to join his wife. During the voyage, the captain informed Spafford when they were nearing the place of the accident. As they crossed over the spot where his dear children had been lost, Spafford penned this beautiful hymn.

So many have drawn comfort and encouragement from these familiar words, but they mean so much more when you consider the context in which they were written. Thank the Lord that it can be well with our soul, not because of our circumstances, but because of the grace of our God!

(1.) 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!”

(2.) Tho’ 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!

(3.) My sin, O 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!

(4.) And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,

The clouds be rolled back as a scroll,

The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend;

“It is well, it is well with my soul!”