It is well...

Some of you may know this story, but for me it's the first time I have heard it. We sang this song in church yesterday, and because God seems to be really trying to get my attention I believe that this, too, isn't a coincidence that this happened to be a part of my devotions this morning.

"H.G. Stafford was a dedicated Christian who lived during the 1800s. Although he was a businessman, today he is remembered for words he penned during an excruciatingly painful time in his life. He had just suffered a financial reversal and was leaving for England with his family. He sent his wife and four daughters ahead on the SS Ville du Havre. In the middle of the ocean, the ship carrying his family collided with another ship and sank quickly, with 230 people losing their lives. Spafford's four daughters were drowned, but his wife was rescued. The message that she wired to her husband read, 'Saved alone.' So afford felt incredible grief; he had lost all four of his daughters to the sea, and his wife was on the other side of the world, alone. But out of his grief he penned some amazing words that still encourage us today:

When peace like a river attenders 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."

John 14:27 reads: I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid. 

Today, it is well with my soul, and I am so grateful. 

Praise Him \0/