“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.” -Romans 12:2
One of my favorite hymns is “Wonderful Words of Life.” This classic gospel hymn was written by Philip P. Bliss. From an early age, two things captured Philip P. Bliss’ attention; music and his faith. Bliss would become a traveling music teacher in the late 1800s. He would travel around his home state of Pennsylvania. He would teach choirs and individuals the great music of the church, while also performing to help earn a living. He eventually made it to Chicago where his music teaching grew and flourished.
Philip P. Bliss eventually connected with some of the great preachers and evangelists in Chicago. He would play and write music for Dwight L. Moody and Major Webster Whittle. With his connection to these two wonderful men of faith, Philip P. Bliss would see his music career transform. After learning more and more about his faith, Philip P. Bliss would turn his full attention to writing new hymns for these thriving and growing ministries. He would write the hymns, “Hallelujah, What a Savior!,” “Hold the Fort,” and the tune to the hymn, “It is Well With My Soul.”
His most well-known hymn is “Wonderful Words of Life.” This simple, yet profound hymn is a reminder to us that learning the wonderful words of God will transform our lives. Bliss uses his hymn to tell everyone that the “Beautiful words, wonderful words of life” will open the majesty and grace of heaven to all people. This hymn sings of the peace and love that is a gift of Christ. When we encounter the “Wonderful words” of God, found in scripture, we will encounter a God who calls to a life of love, peace, and transformation.
We have been given the gift of the Bible. It is the word of God. It is the story of God. When we immerse ourselves in the Biblical story, we grow in our faith. When we engage God’s word, we learn what God’s will is for us, “His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2) When Philip P. Bliss was able to connect his love and skills of music with his passion for God, he helped to change the world for the better. When we connect our passion with God’s story, we will better be equipped to share God’s love and bring hope to the world.
Sing them over again to me,
Wonderful words of life;
Let me more of their beauty see,
Wonderful words of life;
Words of life and beauty
Teach me faith and duty.
Beautiful word, wonderful words,
Wonderful Words of life.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
