Introduction
“Blessed Assurance” is a beloved Christian hymn that originated in 1873, a collaboration between hymn writer Fanny J. Crosby and composer Phoebe Palmer Knapp. The song was born during a visit when Knapp played a melody on her piano and asked Crosby what it evoked. Crosby responded with the now-iconic opening line, “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!” and quickly penned the lyrics, inspired by her unwavering faith.
Fanny J. Crosby, despite being blinded as an infant, was a prolific lyricist who wrote over 8,000 hymns during her lifetime. Her deep spirituality and profound connection to the Methodist tradition shaped her work, often reflecting themes of divine assurance, grace, and eternal hope. “Blessed Assurance” became one of her most enduring contributions to hymnody and has appeared in countless hymnals since its publication, serving as a staple in Christian worship worldwide.
The hymn’s lyrics emphasize the joy and peace that come from faith in Jesus Christ, celebrating the assurance of salvation and the promise of eternal life. Its powerful refrain, “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long,” resonates with believers as an affirmation of their personal relationship with Christ.
Alan Jackson included “Blessed Assurance” in his gospel album Precious Memories, a collection of classic hymns that reflect his deep Christian faith and southern roots. His rendition brings a heartfelt and traditional interpretation of this timeless hymn, introducing it to new audiences while preserving its rich history