Title: Count your blessings
Hymn Number: SS&S 745 (Sacred songs and solo)
1 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 hath done.
Refrain: Count . . your blessings, name them one . by . one ;
Count . . your blessings, see what God . hath . done !
Count . . your blessings, name them one by
one ;
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
2 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.
3 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 [home on high.
Your reward in heaven, nor your
4 So, amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all ;
Count your many blessings, angels
will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
About The Hymn
The hymn “Count Your Blessings”, numbered 745 in Sacred Songs and Solos, was written by Johnson Oatman Jr. in 1897. This uplifting hymn encourages believers to focus on God’s goodness and provision, even in times of difficulty. Each of its four verses offers practical advice for overcoming discouragement by remembering and recounting the blessings God has bestowed. The hymn’s message is rooted in gratitude, faith, and the assurance of God’s care, making it a source of encouragement and hope for all who sing it.
Verse 1: Gratitude in Times of Difficulty
“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.”
The first verse addresses the struggles and discouragements of life, likening them to turbulent waves. It encourages believers to counter despair by reflecting on God’s blessings, one by one. This practice not only shifts focus from problems to gratitude but also reminds worshippers of God’s faithfulness and provision.
Verse 2: Perspective in Life’s Trials
“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 be singing as the days go by.”
The second verse acknowledges the burdens and challenges of life, including the figurative “cross” believers are called to carry. It offers the reassurance that gratitude can dispel doubts and renew joy, enabling worshippers to face life’s trials with a song of praise.
Verse 3: Contentment Over Comparison
“When you look at others with their lands and gold, think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; count your many blessings; money cannot buy your reward in heaven nor your home on high.”
This verse cautions against envy and worldly comparisons, reminding believers that true wealth lies in the eternal promises of Christ. It emphasizes the spiritual riches that far surpass material possessions, encouraging contentment and trust in God’s provision.
Verse 4: Assurance of God’s Faithful Care
“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.”
The final verse offers assurance of God’s sovereign care, even in the midst of life’s conflicts. It reminds worshippers that they are not alone, as God’s angels provide help and comfort along life’s journey. This verse reinforces the hymn’s overarching theme of trusting God and finding strength through gratitude.
Overall Message and Significance
“Count Your Blessings” is a hymn of encouragement and gratitude, urging believers to focus on God’s goodness rather than their troubles. Each verse provides practical advice for overcoming discouragement, fostering contentment, and renewing faith by remembering the blessings God has provided.
The hymn’s timeless message inspires worshippers to adopt an attitude of thankfulness, which not only brings joy but also strengthens their trust in God’s care. Its simple yet profound truth—that gratitude leads to peace and hope—resonates with believers of all ages and circumstances.
By encouraging the practice of “counting blessings,” the hymn reminds us of the countless ways God has been faithful, helping us to face life’s challenges with confidence, joy, and praise. Through its uplifting melody and enduring message, “Count Your Blessings” continues to be a source of inspiration and comfort for many.