Introduction
“Blessed Assurance” is a timeless Christian hymn penned in 1873 by Fanny J. Crosby, a prolific blind lyricist who composed over 9,000 hymns. The music was composed by Phoebe P. Knapp, a skilled musician and friend of Crosby. The hymn’s creation is rooted in a moment of inspiration when Knapp played a melody on the piano, and Crosby, upon hearing it, exclaimed, “Blessed assurance; Jesus is mine,” leading to the immediate composition of the lyrics .
The hymn was first published in the July 1873 issue of Palmer’s Guide to Holiness and Revival Miscellany. Its lyrics express themes of personal salvation, divine assurance, and a foretaste of eternal glory, encapsulating the essence of Crosby’s faith and the Wesleyan understanding of Christian perfection . The refrain, “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long,” emphasizes a life devoted to continuous praise and submission to God’s will.
Over the years, “Blessed Assurance” has been included in numerous hymnals and has been performed by various artists, becoming a staple in Christian worship services worldwide. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its profound message and the collaboration between Crosby and Knapp .
In 2006, country music artist Alan Jackson included “Blessed Assurance” in his album “Precious Memories,” a collection of traditional hymns. Jackson’s rendition introduced the hymn to a broader audience, blending his smooth vocals with a simple, acoustic arrangement that honors the original composition’s spirit. His performance contributed to the hymn’s enduring legacy, resonating with both long-time believers and new listeners .
Jackson’s version of “Blessed Assurance” serves as a testament to the enduring power of gospel music, its ability to transcend genre boundaries and connect with listeners on a spiritual level.