How is it with your Soul?

"It is Well With My Soul"

 

So many of us have sung, and been moved by, the lyrics to this beautiful hymn.  For those who have never heard the history of the song, the words will mean even more after learning the inspiration behind them.

 

In 1870's Chicago, successful businessman Horatio G. Spafford realized great wealth in law and real estate. A generous and devout Christian, Spafford also used his wealth and influence to support evangelist Dwight L. Moody. 

 

Tragedy came into the Spafford house early in 1871 with the death of his only son, four year old Horatio, to Scarlet Fever.  Shortly after, the great Chicago fire consumed all of the elder Horatio's real estate holdings costing the family most of it's wealth.

 

Two years later, in 1873, Spafford and his wife planned a vacation trip to England with their four daughters. The trip was to be some welcome relief from the hardship they had endured, as well as to support Moody in his evangelistic campaign throughout Great Britain.

 

Just before the family's departure on the ship, the 'Ville de Havre', Horatio was delayed by some important business.  He sent his wife and daughters ahead with plans of traveling to meet them in the next few days. 

 

Tragically, on November 2, 1873, the ship his family was on collided with another causing it to sink within twelve minutes.  Only Spafford's wife survived the wreck, their four daughters were lost.  Upon reaching England after her rescue, Mrs. Spafford cabled Horatio with the urgent message, "Saved Alone".  Spafford immediately arranged passage on a ship to England to be with his wife.

 

As the vessel he was sailing on traveled over the location of the horrible accident, the captain called Spafford to the bridge.  As Horatio looked out across the waves, toward the site of his daughters' watery grave, he penned the words of peace that God impressed upon his heart.....

 

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.
 

Click for Video of Song and History

Blessings,
Steve
Logos Christian Bookstore