Hymn Series: “Blessed Assurance” – Fanny Crosby’s Song of Confidence and Hope

As we continue our journey through beloved hymns in our morning gatherings, this week we focus on “Blessed Assurance,” a cherished hymn that celebrates the peace and joy found in the promises of Christ. Written by the remarkable hymn writer Fanny Crosby, “Blessed Assurance” is both a declaration of faith and a reminder that God’s love remains steadfast, regardless of our life’s trials.

Verse of the Week to Read Together

“For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

— 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Hymn Background: Fanny Crosby’s Legacy of Faith Through Music

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) holds an extraordinary place in Christian music history. Though she lost her sight as an infant due to a medical error, Crosby never let this define her limitations. Instead, her deep faith and resilience shaped her into one of the most prolific hymn writers of all time, with over 8,000 hymns to her name. She devoted her life to composing songs that would strengthen the hearts of believers and testify to the joy of salvation.

Educated at the New York Institution for the Blind, where she later taught, Crosby was known for her impressive memory, able to recite extensive portions of the Bible. She once described her blindness as a blessing, feeling it had kept her mind focused on God. “Blessed Assurance,” one of her most well-known hymns, was inspired by a melody her friend Phoebe Palmer Knapp played for her. Upon hearing the music, Crosby responded instantly with the words, “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!” capturing the message of faith and peace that has inspired countless believers ever since.

Family Discussion Starters

To help bring this hymn to life for your family, consider these thoughtful prompts:

1. Personal Reflections on “Blessed Assurance” 

   - Do you or your family members have a special connection to this hymn? Share what “Blessed Assurance” means to you and why it holds significance.

2. Strength in Difficult Times

   - Crosby’s life was filled with challenges, yet her faith shone brightly. What hard times have you faced as a family, and how might the words of “Blessed Assurance” strengthen your trust in God’s promises?

3. Confidence in God’s Promises

   - Discuss the confidence and hope that flows through the lyrics. How does this hymn encourage us when we feel uncertain? How does the message help us to trust God, even in times of doubt?

4. Singing Together

   - Gather together and listen to this moving version of “Blessed Assurance” [here]. Let it serve as a reminder of the joy and strength that Fanny Crosby’s words still bring to believers, and join your voices in song to celebrate the peace that Jesus offers.

As we meditate on the words of “Blessed Assurance,” may we feel the peace and confidence that comes from knowing we are God’s own. This hymn echoes through the ages, encouraging us to rest in the promises of Christ, just as it did for Crosby and the countless souls inspired by her words.

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