Anchored in Faith: Finding Peace Through 'It Is Well With My Soul”
Over 20 years ago, I was working as the pianist for a Baptist church in Garland, Texas with a wonderful choir director, Red Webster. This church had a ministry of going to the Dallas Life Foundation, a homeless shelter in downtown Dallas) once a quarter. The choir would sing, help lead worship, someone would sing a special/solo and then our pastor would bring the message. The people at the shelter had to attend this service if they wanted to eat dinner - just a little incentive!
We had been several times before and although I must admit, it was a bit scary to be there, the people were always very nice and attentive to the service. To be honest, some seemed to be more into the service than some of our church members on Sunday morning! Raising their hands, clapping and praising the Lord not because they had to so they could eat dinner but because the Spirit of the Lord moved them.
On this one particular night, I was to sing a solo and I must admit “the people were very restless”! We sang a few songs, the pastor welcomed everyone and prayed but nothing seemed to quiet them down.
It was my turn! I began to share with them that the writer of “It Is Well With My Soul”, Horatio Spafford, had lost everything he owned in the Chicago Fire of 1871. The family, his wife and four daughters, traveled to England to begin a new life but Mr. Spafford had to stay behind to finish up some business. A few days later, he received a telegram from his wife saying, “Saved alone”!
Devastated, he boarded a ship to join his wife. It is said that when they arrived at the place where the two ships had collided the Captain told Mr. Spafford that this is where the crash may have happened. Mr. Spafford was inspired to write the words to the beloved hymn “It Is Well With My Soul”.
I have never felt the Holy Spirit move so powerfully in my life as I did that night. I’ve always read and heard about a “holy hush” of the Holy Spirit but I can truly tell you that it was as if a wave began on one side of the building and then began to sweep over the people. Everyone grew quiet and I finished the song. After I finished, I just began to cry because I knew that I was in the presence of the Lord. I don’t take credit for this experience at all but give all the glory to the Lord.
During this crazy time of our world, I am thankful that “whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, “It is well, it is well with my soul!” Praise the Lord!
This hymn is a beautiful expression of worship. Each verse contains wonderful expressions of faith and truth. In spite of the horrible tragedy, the comfort that comes from a strong faith in God shines brightly through the gloom. This hymn echoes of pair and suffering but also of the eternal hope that all believer have.
Although the words “it is well with my soul” are not found in Scripture, Jesus did say, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened…and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29) Our compassionate heavenly Father gives us comfort, hope and peace through His Son Jesus Christ.
Four Reasons Why “It Is Well” With My Soul” Hits Home
Everyone experiences grief
Everyone asks “why”
Everyone asks “How do I go on?”
Everyone needs a go-to place for comfort.
How to apply this song to our daily lives
Choose a biblical perspective for life.
Spafford chooses to use water as a symbol of peace rather than destruction.
Remember Jesus’ suffering and love for you.
Pray and sing words of love and adoration to the Lord
Give thanks for all of God blessings
Look ahead to eternity
Place your hope in heaven
Reflect:
What does it mean for your soul to be "well" even in the midst of life's storms?
How can you find comfort and peace in God when facing personal tragedies?
In what ways can you shift your focus from earthly troubles to the eternal hope we have in Christ?
How does remembering the suffering and love of Jesus strengthen your faith during difficult times?
What steps can you take today to trust God more fully, regardless of your circumstances?