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.”
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved this song. It always had the power to make me cry, even before I really knew what It meant. Even before I knew what the author of that song had been through when he wrote it. Before I had gone through any “sorrows like sea billows” of my own.
To me it represents my favorite thing. Being held. When I hear this song, I see a violent, threatening, scary storm. The boat I’m on is rocking. Waves are crashing against it and water is pouring into it. I’m soaked to the bone. But I’m not afraid. I’m held. Jesus’ arms are wrapped around me, taking me through the storm, weathering it with me. I’m still in the same boat, in the same storm, but I’m safe. And so…”it is well with my soul.”
The storm passes eventually and the sun comes out. The excess water begins to evaporate. Our clothes begin to dry. This is what “peace like a river” feels like. The boat has stopped rocking and the nauseating sea-sickness has gone away. The thunder and lightening have stopped and a silent, glorious blue sky has replaced them. Jesus lifts me from our huddled storm position and invites me to dance out on the deck. I can accept His sweet invitation without hesitation. I know that there will be other storms out on this water at some point. But He is with me so I don’t have to live in fear of the future. And so…”It is well with my soul.”
When peace like a river
Attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
I’ll rest in His arms or join in the dance
Because – It is well with my soul…
Isaiah 32:2 – Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land.
Isaiah 43:2 – When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for theLord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8_EfDqF7YI&w=560&h=315]
