HYMN #0745 SSS #745 • SS&S Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #745: When upon life's billows

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

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.
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.

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.

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
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

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.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "When upon life's billows"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #745 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 4 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

Poetic Meter: Standard Metrical Hymnody
Stanza Structure: 4 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship

⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.

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