When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God has done
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings wealth can never buy,
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
Count Your Blessings Video
Count Your Blessings Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
#### What is the meaning of the song "Count Your Blessings" by Johnson Oatman?
"Count Your Blessings" by Johnson Oatman, Jr. is a Christian hymn that encourages believers to focus on the positive aspects of their lives as gifts from God, especially during hard times. It emphasizes gratitude and the power of acknowledging God's blessings, big or small, as a way to overcome discouragement and maintain faith. The lyrical content suggests that counting one's blessings can shift perspective, promote a positive outlook, and strengthen one's relationship with God.
#### How can the first verse of "Count Your Blessings" be broken down and analyzed?
The first verse of the song speaks to those feeling overwhelmed and defeated ("life’s billows you are tempest-tossed"). It advises the listener to take stock of their blessings in times of despair ("Count your many blessings, name them one by one"). This act is presented as a remedy for discouragement, shifting focus from problems to the positive aspects of life that one might have overlooked.
#### What Bible verses relate to the first verse of the song?
The first verse echoes the sentiment of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." It also aligns with James 1:2-3, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."
#### How does the second verse of "Count Your Blessings" deepen the song's message?
In the second verse, the song directly addresses the burden of worries and challenges ("Are you ever burdened with a load of care?"). It suggests that recognizing blessings can lighten these burdens and bring joy into one's life ("every doubt will fly, And you will keep singing as the days go by"). This verse underlines the transformative power of gratitude in changing one's outlook on life and its challenges.
#### Can you provide Bible references that support the message of the second verse?
The message in the second verse is supported by Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus invites those who are weary to find rest in Him, indicating the relief and support faith can provide. Similarly, Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers not to be anxious but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present their requests to God.
#### What is the significance of comparing earthly wealth to spiritual wealth in the song?
The comparison underscores the transient nature of material wealth versus the eternal value of spiritual blessings promised by Christ ("Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold"). It reminds listeners that true wealth and satisfaction come from a relationship with God and the blessings that cannot be bought, such as peace, love, and salvation.
#### Which Bible verses relate to the theme of valuing spiritual wealth over material wealth in the song?
Luke 12:15 warns against greed and emphasizes that a person’s life does not consist in the abundance of their possessions, promoting the idea of valuing spiritual wealth. Matthew 6:19-21 also advises storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, highlighting the imperishable nature of spiritual blessings.
#### How does the song's final verse encourage believers facing conflict or challenges?
The final verse of "Count Your Blessings" serves as an affirmation that God is in control despite life's conflicts and challenges ("So, amid the conflict whether great or small, Do not be discouraged, God is over all"). It reassures believers that focusing on their blessings will bring divine help and comfort, reinforcing faith and perseverance until the end of their earthly journey.
#### What scripture supports the encouragement found in the song's final verse?
Romans 8:31-39 offers strong encouragement, reminding believers that if God is for us, no one can stand against us, and nothing can separate us from the love of God. This passage aligns with the song's message of divine support and comfort in all circumstances.
