Merle Haggard + Cristy Lane + Lynda Randle - One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus Lyrics

One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus Video

One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus: A Timeless Gospel Song

One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus is a classic gospel song that has been sung and recorded by various artists, including Merle Haggard, Cristy Lane, and Lynda Randle. The song's lyrics resonate with many people who are seeking to live a life of faith, especially during difficult times.

The song's title and lyrics are based on the biblical concept of taking things one day at a time, trusting in God's provision and guidance for each new day.

The Meaning of One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus

The central message of One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus is encapsulated in its chorus:

"One day at a time, sweet Jesus
That's all I'm asking from You
Just give me the strength to do every day
What I have to do"

These lyrics express a simple but powerful prayer of surrender to God, acknowledging our daily need for His help and grace to face life's challenges. The song's verses expand on this theme, highlighting different struggles and obstacles that we might encounter on our journey of faith.

For instance, the first verse says:

"I'm only human, I'm just a man
Help me to believe in what I could be and all that I am
Show me the stairway that I have to climb
Lord, for my sake, teach me to take one day at a time"

These lyrics speak to the common experience of feeling limited and inadequate, yet also longing for growth and transformation. The reference to a "stairway" suggests a journey that requires effort and perseverance, but also a clear sense of direction and purpose.

The second verse continues with a more specific example of struggle:

"Do you remember when You walked among men
Well, Jesus, You know if You're looking below, it's worse now than then
Pushing and shoving, crowding my mind
So for my sake, teach me to take one day at a time"

Here, the songwriter acknowledges the reality of a world filled with chaos, distraction, and confusion. The plea for Jesus to teach us to take one day at a time is a recognition that we need His wisdom and guidance to navigate the complexities of life.

Overall, the song's lyrics convey a sense of humility, dependence, and trust in God's provision. It is a reminder that we cannot control everything in our lives, but we can choose to rely on God's strength and grace to face each day with faith and hope.

The Inspiration and Story Behind One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus

The origins of One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus are somewhat unclear, as the song has been recorded by multiple artists over the years. However, it is believed to have been written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris Kristofferson in the early 1970s.

Marijohn Wilkin was a prolific songwriter in the gospel and country music genres, having penned hits such as "Long Black Veil" and "The Knoxville Girl." According to some reports, she was inspired to write One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus while struggling with alcoholism and seeking a path to recovery.

Kris Kristofferson, who co-wrote the song, was already a well-known songwriter and performer at the time, having written classics such as "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Help Me Make It Through the Night." He has said that he was moved by Wilkin's personal story and wanted to help her create a song that would resonate with others going through similar struggles.

The song was first recorded by the gospel singer and pianist Marilyn Sellars in 1974, but it was Cristy Lane's version in 1980 that became a major hit. Lane's rendition reached number one on the Billboard country chart and crossed over to the pop charts as well.

Since then, One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus has been covered by numerous artists and has become a beloved classic in the gospel music canon. Its simple but profound message of faith and hope has touched countless lives and continues to inspire new generations of listeners.

Bible Verses That the Song Gives Reference To

One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus is a song that is steeped in biblical themes and imagery. Here are some of the key verses and concepts that the song references:

- Matthew 6:34 - "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
- Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
- Psalm 23:3 - "He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake."
- Hebrews 4:16 - "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
- Proverbs 16:9 - "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."

These verses and concepts all speak to the idea of trusting in God's provision and guidance for each new day. They also remind us that we are not alone in our struggles, but can turn to God for help and support.

Practical Application of One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus to Christian Living

So, how can we apply the message of One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus to our daily lives as Christians? Here are a few practical suggestions:

- Start each day with prayer: Before you begin your day, take a few moments to pray and ask God for strength and guidance. This can help you focus your mind and heart on what truly matters, and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
- Seek God's will in all things: As you go about your daily tasks and responsibilities, try to stay attuned to God's voice and leading. Ask yourself, "What would Jesus do in this situation?" and strive to live in a way that honors Him.
- Practice gratitude: Even when things are tough, there is always something to be thankful for. Take time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life, and express gratitude to God for His goodness.
- Lean on your Christian community: We are not meant to walk the Christian journey alone. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can offer support, encouragement, and accountability.
- Rest in God's presence: Finally, remember that God is with you always, and that His love and grace are more than sufficient for your needs. Take moments throughout the day to simply rest in His presence, and allow yourself to be renewed and refreshed by His Spirit.

Conclusion

One Day at a Time Sweet Jesus is a timeless gospel song that speaks to the heart of the Christian experience. Its simple yet profound lyrics remind us of our need for daily dependence on God's strength and grace, and offer hope and encouragement in the midst of life's challenges. As we seek to live out our faith each day, may we remember to take things one day at a time, trusting in God's provision and guidance for all that lies ahead.