I have always heard the saying that for Christians, our hymns are our theology. There are no religions like Christianity where music is such a part of worship and the life of faith. This happens to be one of my favorite parts of being a Christ follower — obviously, besides knowing him and being saved!
We can sing our faith!
What kind of songs are you singing these days? Do they reflect what’s in your heart? Do they give witness to the power and sovereignty of God?
Today, I want to reflect on one of my favorites: “Count Your Blessings,” which was written by Johnson Oatman, Jr. The music we know it best by was composed by Edwin O. Excell. I can still hear my mother’s beautiful voice as well as my father’s off-tune but enthusiastic voice in my ears as I look at the words.
When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Is the storm of this life tossing you around, making you discouraged and desparate?
Count your blessings — name them, one by one.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will be singing as the days go by.
Are the worries of job loss, bad business, health risks over COVID-19, making you feel that it’s just all too much?
Count your blessings — name them, one by one.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold.
Count your many blessings, money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your Lord on high.
Are you tired of seeing others living in luxury while you build up debt and question the riches of life in Christ?
Count your blessings — name them, one by one.
So amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
It doesn’t matter the struggle you’re facing — God’s in control, and he longs to give you comfort and rest, if you’ll call on him.
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Do it! Count your blessings and let God surprise you!
Grace and Peace