When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Chorus:
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
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!
Repeat Chorus
And 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.
Repeat Chorus
When Peace Like a River
When Peace Like a River Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
The song "When Peace Like a River," performed by Acappella and featured in a video released on October 7, 2022, is a deeply resonant hymn known for its message of steadfast faith amidst profound suffering. Its lyrics, penned by Horatio Spafford in the late 19th century, were written following immense personal tragedy, including the loss of his daughters in a shipwreck. This historical background imbues the words with a powerful authenticity, expressing a peace that transcends earthly circumstances, a theme central to its enduring appeal.
The first verse lays the foundation, contrasting moments of tranquility, described as "peace, like a river," with overwhelming trials, depicted as "sorrows like sea billows roll." Yet, through these opposing experiences, the author declares a learned resignation and trust, encapsulated in the core phrase, "It is well, it is well, with my soul." This declaration is not a denial of pain but an affirmation of an inner state rooted in something beyond the external chaos.
The second verse shifts focus to the theme of redemption. It speaks of the profound relief and "bliss" that comes from the understanding that sin, not just in part but entirely, has been "nailed to the cross." This imagery reflects a complete atonement and removal of the burden of guilt, leading to an expression of praise and freedom. This concept finds strong correlation with New Testament teachings on the sacrifice of Christ and the forgiveness of sins, such as found in Colossians 2:14, which speaks of canceling the debt of our sins by nailing it to the cross.
The final verse turns to future hope, anticipating a day when "faith shall be sight" and the Lord's return is heralded by a trumpet call. This eschatological perspective looks beyond the present trials to a time of ultimate vindication and peace. The expectation of Christ's descent and the promise of eternal life reinforce the confidence expressed throughout the song, culminating once more in the assurance, "Even so, it is well with my soul." Scripture passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 describe the Lord's return with the sound of a trumpet, aligning with this hopeful future vision. The overarching message resonates with Isaiah 26:3, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you," reflecting the source of the peace described in the hymn.
The song's structure, with its recurring chorus, acts as a powerful anchor, reiterating the central theme of inner peace regardless of external conditions. This simple yet profound affirmation serves as both a personal declaration and a communal expression of faith. For generations, "When Peace Like a River" has offered solace and inspiration, reminding listeners of a hope and peace available through faith, even when facing the most turbulent waters of life.
