It is well with my soul (Horatio Spafford) sung by Audrey Assad
It was during the spring/summer of 2020 that I first encountered Audrey Assad’s rendition of this beautiful, poignant hymn. During a time of great uncertainty and difficulty felt by so many during this time, the words of this hymn brought peace, comfort and restoration as they have always done. Like many churches we were forced to close and to worship remotely via zoom. Most of our services consisted of a pre-recorded session and then a zoom time of fellowship. My husband Philip and I, along with our Minister, and others in our fellowship, prepared recorded acts of worship and it was during this time that a Google search of various renditions of hymns and songs opened up a new world of worship music. This particular hymn had particular resonance for me at this turbulent time and still does.
The musical setting is simple and allows one to truly hear the words of this comforting 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
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 has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with 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
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
This hymn of faith was written by Horatio Spafford (1828-1888). Horatio placed his trust in God during his life’s prosperity, but also during its dark times. A devout Christian who’d immersed himself in Scripture, many years of his life were joyous. He was a prominent Chicago lawyer, whose business was thriving. He owned several properties throughout the city. He was married with 5 children and life was indeed blessed.
Just as Horatio hit the heights of his profession and financial success, things began to change. It began with the tragic loss of their son. Not long thereafter, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed nearly every real estate investment Horatio owned.
A few years later in 1873, Horatio treated his wife and daughters to a much-needed escape from the turmoil by sending them on a boat trip to Europe, with plans to join them shortly after finalising some business in Chicago. Just a few days later, he received the tragic news from his wife, “Saved alone…” The family’s ship had wrecked and all four of his daughters had perished.
On his way to meet his distraught wife, passing over the same sea that had just claimed the lives of his remaining children, Horatio wrote this timeless hymn.
Hymn composer, Philip Bliss (1838-1876), was so moved by Horatio’s words, that he composed the tune to accompany the words. The song was published by Bliss and Sankey, in 1876.
It’s incredible to think such encouraging and uplifting words were born from such tragedy and loss. It’s an example of truly inspiring faith and trust in the Lord. And it goes to show the power our God has to overcome even the darkest times in our lives.
Heavenly Father,
We thankyou that despite the trials, sorrows and challenges in life you have overcome all through your death and resurrection. Help us to find peace in our souls through trust in your enduring love and care for us. Amen
Cathryn Clarke
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