The Life of Fannie Crosby

Fannie Crosby (1820-1915) is regarded as one of the most prolific hymn writers of all time. Born on March 24, 1820, in Putnam County, New York, Fannie was tragically blinded at just six weeks old due to a medical error when a poorly trained doctor applied a mustard poultice to her eyes. Despite this early hardship, Fannie never allowed her blindness to define her. Instead, she dedicated her life to helping the poor and needy, embodying a spirit of humility and service.

Fannie began composing hymns and writing poetry at the remarkable age of six. Her passion for learning led her to enroll at the New York Institute for the Blind at 15, where she later became a faculty member, teaching history. In 1858, she married Alexander Van Alstyne, a fellow student and later a colleague at the Institute. Alexander, a gifted musician and lover of literature, shared Fannie’s artistic passions.

Though Fannie experienced deep sorrow in her personal life, including the loss of her infant child, she remained steadfast in her faith. She once expressed, “I became a mother and knew a mother’s love, but the angels came down and took our infant up to God.”

Fannie initially focused on writing poetry but soon found her true calling in hymn writing. While attending John Street Methodist Church in Manhattan, she met Phoebe Knapp, a wealthy woman with a deep love for music. One day, Phoebe invited Fannie to her music room and played a melody on the piano, asking, “What does that tune say to you?” Fannie joyfully replied, “That happy tune says to me, ‘Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!’” She then recited the entire first stanza of what would become the now-famous hymn, "Blessed Assurance."

This hymn became a beautiful collaboration between the two women and was published in 1873. Despite living in an era when publishers were hesitant to publish a woman’s work, Fannie’s hymns gained widespread acclaim. She is believed to have written over 8,000 hymns, often using more than 200 pseudonyms to navigate the challenges of her time.

One of the most cherished verses from "Blessed Assurance" is:

“Perfect submission, perfect delight,

Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;

Angels descending bring from above,

Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.”

It is said that when a minister expressed pity over her blindness, Fannie responded, “Do you know that if at birth I had been able to make one petition, it would have been that I was born blind? Because when I get to heaven, the face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.”

Fannie’s life was marked by unceasing praise, a testament to her deep faith. She once summarized her journey with these words: “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.”

Reflect:

• Are there things in your life that are keeping you from praising God?

• What is the definition of assurance?

• Are you experiencing God’s “blessed assurance” today?

This verse perfectly exemplifies Fannie Crosby’s unwavering faith in the Lord. How does this verse encourage you to praise the Lord in all circumstances?

Fannie didn’t dwell on what she lacked; instead, she used what she had to glorify God. May we all do the same.

Embracing Blessed Assurance

"Blessed Assurance" by Fannie Crosby is a hymn that resonates deeply with believers, expressing a profound sense of confidence and peace in God's promises. The chorus, "This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long," speaks to a life lived in the certainty of God's love and salvation.

1. Confidence in Salvation:

Blessed assurance means having an unwavering confidence in your salvation through Jesus Christ. It is the knowledge that, no matter the circumstances, your relationship with God is secure because of His grace and love. This assurance allows you to face life's challenges with peace, knowing that your eternal destiny is secure in Him.

Reflect: 

• Do you live with the confidence that your salvation is secure in Christ?

• How does this assurance influence your daily life?

2. Peace in Trials:

Life is full of trials and uncertainties, but blessed assurance offers peace in the midst of these storms. It is the trust that God is with you, guiding you through every difficulty, and that He is working all things for your good, even when you can't see it.

Reflect:  

• How do you find peace in the midst of trials? 

• Are there areas of your life where you struggle to trust that God is in control?

3. Joy in Every Circumstance:

Blessed assurance leads to a joy that transcends circumstances. It is the joy of knowing that, no matter what happens, you are loved and cherished by God. This joy becomes your strength and your song, even in the darkest times.

Reflect:

• How can you cultivate a heart of joy, regardless of your circumstances? 

• What can you do today to remind yourself of God's love and care for you?

4. Living with Purpose:

When you have blessed assurance, you live with a sense of purpose. You understand that God has a plan for your life and that He has called you to live out His will. This assurance gives you direction and meaning, empowering you to live boldly for Christ.

Reflect: 

• Are you living with the assurance that God has a purpose for your life? 

• How can you align your daily actions with His plan for you?

Closing Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessed assurance that we have in You. Help us to live each day with confidence, peace, joy, and purpose, knowing that our lives are in Your hands. May we continually praise You, our Savior, all the day long. Amen.