I thought I would share one of my most favorite hymns with you today. I'm sure most of you know it and love it, too. I have always loved this song, but love it more because of the story behind it. It was penned from a broken heart after several traumatic events in Mr. Spafford’s life. The first was the death of his only son at the age of four, shortly followed by the great Chicago Fire which ruined him financially. Then he had planned to travel to Europe with his family on a ship, but sent the family ahead while he was delayed. While crossing the Atlantic, the ship sank rapidly after a collision with another ship and all four of his daughters died. His wife Anna survived and sent him a telegram with the words, "Saved alone . . .". Shortly afterwards, as Mr. Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to write these words as his ship passed near where his daughters had died.
Most of the verses written about praise in God's Word were voiced by people faced with crushing heartaches, injustice, treachery, slander, and scores of other difficult situations. ~ Joni Eareckson Tada
Beautiful song. One of my favorites. Praying for your friend.
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