Peace, Surrender, Joy & Hope

Many of you know of my deep appreciation for traditional worship and sacred church music, especially the timeless hymns of the church that have shaped the faith of generations. Among these treasured hymns, Blessed Assurance remains at the top of my list.
 
Written by Fanny Crosby, this cherished hymn has encouraged generations of believers through its powerful message of faith and hope. Its words call us to rest in the assurance that God’s promises are true and His presence is constant. A close friend of Crosby’s, Phoebe Knapp, composed the music for this hymn. According to tradition, Knapp played a melody on the piano and asked Crosby what the tune said to her. Crosby immediately replied, “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!” From that moment, one of the most beloved hymns in church history was born.
 
What makes this hymn so enduring is its message of unwavering confidence in Christ. The lyrics speak of peace, surrender, joy, and hope:
 
“This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.”

For many believers, these words are more than poetry, they are a personal testimony! The hymn reminds us that faith is not built on uncertainty or fear, but on the assurance of God’s love and salvation.
 
Fanny Crosby is one of the most influential hymn writers in Christian history. Though she lost her eyesight as an infant, Crosby’s spiritual vision and poetic gift touched millions around the world. Over her lifetime, she wrote more than 8,000 hymns, including many still sung today in churches of every denomination. Hymns like “To God Be the Glory,” “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross,” “Close to Thee,” and “Rescue the Perishing,” just to name a few.
 
Crosby often wrote from personal experiences. Despite physical hardship and challenges, her hymns consistently reflected joy and trust in God. Her life serves as a powerful example of how faith can overcome adversity and inspire generations.
 
I would encourage you to reflect on the message of Blessed Assurance and the influence of Fanny Crosby’s hymns. May we also choose to live with the same unwavering faith and confidence in God’s promises. Let us be encouraged today to walk by faith, to praise God in every season, and to hold firmly to the assurance that Jesus is with us always. My prayer is that my life, like Crosby’s hymns, will be a testimony of hope, joy, and steadfast trust in the Lord.
 
With Joy,
 Dr. Chad Hunt
Director of Worship & Music
 

                                                             Photo from Eternity News/Wikimedia and Hymnary.org