Johnson Oatman Jr. worked in his father’s business all his life. He also became ordained as a Methodist preacher, so he often preached in one of the small Methodist churches in the area. But he could never sing like his father could sing.
However, when he was thirty-six years old, Oatman counted his blessings and discovered another talent. He could write songs, and for the next three decades he wrote four or five new gospel songs each week. He didn’t want any money for them, but his publisher insisted, so Oatman finally agreed to accept one dollar per song.
Scriptures: Psalm 28:7; Psalm 103:1-5; Ephesians 1:3
Themes: Thanksgiving, Praise, Joy
Lyrics of the Hymn:
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;
Count your many blessings, see what God 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, ev’ry doubt will fly,
And you will be 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, money cannot buy
Your reward in Heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
By JOHNSON OATMAN JR. (1856–1922)
Reference for the Hymn:
Petersen, William. The Complete Book of Hymns (pp. 657-658). Tyndale House Publishers. Kindle Edition.
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