Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

It Is Well with My Soul

Horatio G. Spafford

An American lawyer, real estate investor, and Presbyterian elder (1828–1888). After losing his fortune in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, Spafford planned a trip to Europe with his family. Delayed by business, he sent his wife and four daughters ahead. Their ship collided with another vessel and sank in 12 minutes; his four daughters drowned, and only his wife survived. As Spafford sailed to join his grieving wife, the captain pointed out the spot where the ship sank. In his cabin near that spot, Spafford penned the comforting words: 'When peace like a river attendeth my way... it is well with my soul'.

Source: Gospel Hymns No. 2

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 (may be sung after final stanza only):
It is well with my soul;
it is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
let this blest assurance control:
that Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
and has shed his own blood for my soul. Refrain
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! Refrain
O Lord, haste the day when my 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