It Is Well With My Soul
Author: Horatio G. Spafford (1873)·Music: Philip P. Bliss·Scripture: Philippians 4:7
Meaning & History
Spafford wrote this hymn after the tragic loss of his four daughters at sea. It is a testimony that the peace of Christ can hold firm through the deepest grief — a favorite at SDA memorial services and funerals.
Lyrics
Verse 1
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.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Verse 2
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.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Verse 3
My sin — O the bliss of this glorious thought! — My sin, not in part, but the whole, Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more; Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Verse 4
And, Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll, The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend; Even so — it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.