Blessed Assurance
Jeremy Riddle
A Hymn of Devotion: The Assurance of Faith in 'Blessed Assurance'
Jeremy Riddle's rendition of 'Blessed Assurance' is a heartfelt hymn that delves into the profound sense of security and joy found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. The lyrics, originally penned by Fanny J. Crosby, express a deep and unwavering faith, celebrating the assurance of salvation and the promise of eternal life. The song opens with the declaration, 'Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine,' immediately setting a tone of personal and intimate connection with the divine. This connection is described as a 'foretaste of glory divine,' suggesting that the experience of faith provides a glimpse of the heavenly glory that awaits believers.
The recurring refrain, 'This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long,' emphasizes the centrality of worship and gratitude in the believer's life. It speaks to a life dedicated to praising and acknowledging the Savior, not just in moments of worship but throughout the entire day. This continuous praise is portrayed as a natural response to the blessings and assurance received from God. The repetition of this refrain reinforces the idea that this devotion is not just a momentary feeling but a lifelong commitment.
The verses further explore themes of submission, delight, and divine visions. 'Perfect submission, perfect delight, visions of rapture now burst on my sight,' conveys a sense of complete surrender to God's will, resulting in profound joy and spiritual revelations. The imagery of 'angels descending' and 'echoes of mercy, whispers of love' evokes a sense of divine presence and communication, suggesting that the believer is constantly surrounded by God's love and grace. The final verse, 'Perfect submission, all is at rest, I in my Savior am happy and blest,' encapsulates the peace and contentment that come from living a life of faith, watching and waiting for the fulfillment of God's promises.
The song concludes with a communal declaration, 'This is our story, this is our song, praising our Savior all the day long,' extending the personal experience of faith to a shared one among believers. This communal aspect highlights the unity and collective joy found in the Christian faith, reinforcing the idea that this blessed assurance is not just an individual experience but a shared journey of faith and praise.