It Is Well With My Soul.

The hymn “It Is Well with My Soul” has a deeply moving and tragic story associated with its creation. The lyrics were written by Horatio G. Spafford, an American lawyer and devout Christian, in the late 19th century.

In 1871, Spafford and his wife, Anna, were living in Chicago with their four young daughters. That year, the Great Chicago Fire broke out, which devastated the city and destroyed much of their property. Despite this loss, the Spaffords remained steadfast in their faith.

In 1873, seeking a reprieve from their struggles, the Spafford family planned a trip to Europe. However, Horatio was delayed by business, so he sent his wife and daughters ahead on the steamship Ville du Havre, scheduled to sail from New York to France.

Tragically, the Ville du Havre collided with another vessel in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and sank. Anna Spafford survived, but their four daughters perished in the accident. Horatio received a telegram from his wife that simply said, “Saved alone.”

Overwhelmed with grief, Horatio made his way to Europe to be with his wife. As his ship passed near the spot where the Ville du Havre had sunk, he was inspired to write the lyrics to “It Is Well with My Soul.” The hymn served as a testament to his unwavering faith in the midst of immense personal tragedy.

The words of the hymn reflect Horatio Spafford’s deep trust in God and his acceptance of God’s sovereignty, even in the face of profound loss. The opening lines, “When peace like a river attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll,” capture the contrast between the tranquility of peace and the overwhelming waves of sorrow.

The third verse of the hymn holds particular significance as it directly references the tragic event:

“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!”

These lyrics convey Spafford’s conviction that his sins were forgiven through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, bringing him comfort and assurance even amidst his immense sorrow.

“It Is Well with My Soul” was set to music by Philip Bliss, a well-known hymn composer of the time. The hymn gained popularity and has since become one of the most cherished and enduring hymns of the Christian faith, providing solace and hope to countless individuals facing their own trials and grief.

The story behind “It Is Well with My Soul” serves as a testament to the power of faith and the human capacity to find peace and trust in God, even in the midst of unimaginable circumstances. It stands as a timeless reminder that our hope rests not in our earthly circumstances, but in the unfailing love and grace of God.

Want to listen to it? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui42ySSbhX0