“O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?”

— I Corinthians 15:55

Some hymns are so deeply rooted in Scripture and personal testimony that they continue to speak to our souls, generation after generation. Victory in Jesus is one of those hymns. Written during a time of great personal suffering, it beautifully echoes the triumphant truth found in 1 Corinthians 15:55–57 — that through Christ, death has been defeated, and we walk in victory.

The Story Behind the Hymn

In the early 20th century, Eugene Monroe Bartlett Sr. was a beloved figure in gospel music. After college, he began his career in Hartford, Arkansas, working for a music company before eventually co-founding the Hartford Music Company and opening the Hartford Music Institute. One of his notable students was none other than Albert Brumley, the writer of “I’ll Fly Away.”

Though Bartlett wrote many songs, none would prove as enduring as Victory in Jesus. And ironically, it was the last song he ever wrote.

In 1939, Bartlett suffered a massive stroke that left him partially paralyzed and unable to travel or perform. It was a Job-like season — one that could have crushed his spirit. But instead of turning away from God, Bartlett leaned in. He studied the Bible and clung to God’s promises, even in his pain.

During this time of personal loss and physical limitation, he wrote Victory in Jesus — a hymn that radiates hope, healing, and unwavering trust in the Lord.

A Song of Redemption and Restoration

What makes this hymn so special is not just its melody, but the message woven into every line. It tells the story of a life changed by grace:

“Then I repented of my sins and won the victory…”
“He loved me ere I knew Him…”
“All my love is due Him…”
“Dear Jesus, come and heal my broken spirit…”

Each lyric mirrors the themes found in 1 Corinthians 15:55–57, where Paul boldly declares that death has lost its sting because of Jesus’ resurrection. Because Christ overcame the grave, we too can live in freedom — not bound by fear, sin, or defeat, but victorious in Him.

Living in the Power of Victory

Victory in Jesus isn’t just a hymn we sing on Sundays. It’s a daily declaration of truth.

When we:

Repent of our sins — we turn from darkness to light.
Give Him all our love — we place Him at the center of our hearts.
Ask Him to heal our broken spirits — we surrender to His redeeming work.

And in return, He gives us a life filled with hope, purpose, and eternal promise.

Even in the middle of suffering, loss, or unanswered prayers, we can stand firm knowing the victory has already been won. Not because of anything we’ve done, but because of what Jesus has already done.

Final Thoughts: Keep Singing the Song of Victory

Maybe today, like Bartlett, you find yourself in a difficult season — grieving, waiting, or wrestling with disappointment. Let this be your reminder: God is still at work, even in the quiet. Even in the pain.

He is the God who brings victory from defeat.
Healing from brokenness.
Joy from ashes.

So whether you’re praising Him on the mountaintop or holding onto Him in the valley, sing it loud and clear today:

🎶 “O victory in Jesus, my Savior forever…” 🎶