IT IS WELL!

 IT IS WELL!

 Many of Christianity’s inspirational songs were written in the wake of deeply troubling times.  Such is the case with the classic hymn, “It is Well with My Soul.”  Its music was composed by Philip Paul Bliss, but the powerful lyrics were penned by Horatio G. Spafford.  The back story is a blend of deep sorrow and life-changing faith.

 It’s so strange how life’s dreams can turn on a dime, so to speak.  Horatio Spafford was keenly aware of the profound impact of unexpected challenges.  Although he was a successful attorney and real estate investor, Horatio lost most of his fortune in the great Chicago fire of 1871.  In that same year, his beloved four-year-old son succumbed to scarlet fever.

 Believing that a vacation might prove beneficial for his family, he sent his wife and four daughters to England, promising to join them once his business was completed.  However, during the transatlantic crossing, their ship had a collision which tragically claimed the lives of 200 people, including all four of Horatio’s daughters.

 Having survived that horrific accident, Horatio’s wife, Anna, telegrammed with two sorrowful sentences: “Saved alone.  What shall I do?”

 Horatio was devastated and soon set sail for London.  Because the ship captain was aware of his passenger’s plight, he summoned Horatio when they arrived at the location where his daughters had lost their lives.  As he contemplated his deep loss and profound faith in the sovereignty of God, Horatio penned these words, which later became the world-renowned hymn:

 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.

 My friends, it is an incomparable consolation to encounter the presence of Almighty God while traversing the depths of pain, loss and despair.  No matter what you are presently experiencing, remember the encouraging words of Jesus Christ, “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” (John 14:18)  “And lo, I am with you always, even unto the end.” (Matthew 28:20)  In the words of the Apostle Paul, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)  Therefore, nothing “shall separate us from the love of God.” (Romans 8:39)  For that reason alone, that HE is with us, we are absolutely sure that It is well…

 Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!