It Is Well with My Soul

by Rev. Eric Folkerth

Last week in worship, we talked about the remarkable story of Horatio Spafford and the writing of the classic hymn, “It is Well with My Soul.”

Spafford lost all four of his daughters in a ship wreck off the coast of England. When he later raced to meet his wife there —the only surviving member of his family on that ship— the ship’s captain drew his attention to the very spot where his family had drowned.

Legend has it that he very quickly penned the words:

“When…sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot,
You’ve taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.”

As we said Sunday, this is an incredible example of how “faith” is primarily a TRUST in God, not a trust in outcomes.

This week we’ll encounter several stories where Jesus heals people. One is a short-term emergency. Another is a long-term illness. But Jesus is able, surrounded by adoring fans and confused Disciples, to heal them both.

The danger for us always is to put our faith in OUTCOMES…specific things we want or hope for…and not in God. God does not promise specific riches, specific health, or specific life outcomes.

But God does promise to walk with us through everything, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Join us Sunday as we unpack this more.