Wonderful Words

To Philip Bliss, the song did not seem special. Born on this day in 1838 in Pennsylvania, Bliss had written many songs but never thought this composition “possessed much merit.” He never told anyone about it. He carried it around for more than two years.

Then, during a camp meeting, he decided to introduce this long-ignored song. To his surprise, the response was enthusiastic. He had been wrong and discovered that people were moved by the mighty truths it expressed.

This song, “Wonderful Words of Life,” described the awesome power of God’s Word. Bliss wrote, “Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of life.” His prayer was that he would see more of their beauty. He realized how these words “teach me faith and duty.” They were given to all of us by Jesus who offers “pardon and peace to all.”

Bliss urged sinners to listen to “the loving call,” and realize that these words were “freely given,” that they lead to forgiveness but also an eternal reward in Heaven. His hymn echoes the conclusion drawn by believers through the centuries. These feelings were expressed by the psalmist who described how much he loved God’s Word and how wonderful it is.

Today, ask God to help you fall in love with His Word as never before. Learn to crave its truths. These are the words of life! And they are wonderful!