Lyrics
Verse 1
When troubles surround us, when evils come
The body grows weak
The spirit grows numb
When these things beset us, God doesn't forget us
He sends us His love
Chorus
On the wings of a snow-white dove
He sends His pure sweet love
A sign from above
On the wings of a dove
Verse 2
When Jesus went down through the river that day
Well, he was baptised in the usual way
And when it was done
God blessed His son
He sent him His love
On the wings of a dove
Chorus (x2)
On the wings of a snow-white dove
He sends His pure sweet love
A sign from above
On the wings of a dove
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
This country gospel song uses the dove as a sign of God's love in times of trouble. The first verse describes a weak body, a numb spirit and trouble all around, then states that "God doesn't forget us" and sends His love. The refrain repeats the image of a snow-white dove carrying "His pure sweet love" as "A sign from above".
The second verse retells the baptism of Jesus in the river, saying that God blessed His Son and sent love "on the wings of a dove". This draws on the Gospel accounts in Matthew 3:16-17 and Luke 3:21-22, where the Spirit descends like a dove and a voice from heaven affirms Jesus.
The song pairs that scene with comfort for anyone who feels worn down, suggesting that God's care is as visible now as it was at the Jordan. The simple repeated refrain keeps the message easy to remember.
Related Scripture
- Matthew 3:16-17 At the baptism of Jesus the Spirit descends like a dove and a voice affirms the Son.
- Psalm 34:18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, matching the comfort in the first verse.