By Teddy Joseph
Amidst life’s adversities and uncertainties, the story of Fanny Crosby stands out as a testament to unwavering faith and resilience. Despite facing a series of heartbreaking events from a young age, including losing her eyesight as an infant and enduring the loss of loved ones, Fanny remained steadfast in her joyful spirit and deepened her connection with God through her prolific hymn writing.
Over the course of her ninety-four years, Fanny Crosby penned thousands of hymns, many of which reflected her personal experiences and unwavering faith in God. Her approach to composing hymns involved prayer before each piece, showcasing a profound reliance on divine inspiration and guidance in her creative process.
In a world marked by increasing economic instability and spiritual void, Fanny Crosby’s life offers a compelling narrative of finding security in a God. The current landscape, with rising food and gas prices, a growing reliance on food banks, and families uniting to combat escalating living costs, underscores a prevailing sense of insecurity that transcends material concerns and delves into the spiritual realm.
The essence of security, as espoused in the teachings of Jesus Christ, lies not in the absence of challenges but in the unwavering presence of divine grace and companionship. Through Christ, individuals can find solace in the knowledge that they are not alone in their struggles, that forgiveness is readily available, and that a future of hope and redemption awaits.
Central to the message of security in Jesus Christ is the concept of salvation as a complete and unmerited gift, bestowed upon believers through God’s boundless love and grace. This assurance forms a firm foundation, an unshakable rock, (1 Cor 3:11) upon which individuals can weather life’s storms, make decisions, and navigate the complexities of existence with God’s divine presence, guidance and support.
The epitome of God’s love, as exemplified by Jesus on the cross, underscores a profound truth—that nothing can separate humanity from the enduring and limitless love of the Creator. This profound love, which transcends human understanding and transcends all barriers, serves as a beacon of hope and security in a world fraught with uncertainty and strife (Rom 8:28-29).
Embracing the unconditional love of God not only brings healing and peace to the soul but also instills an unshakeable sense of security that surpasses earthly troubles. At the core of this security lies the figure of Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice on Calvary offers redemption, comfort, strength, and peace to all who seek solace in His unfailing love.
As individuals strive to embody the boundless love of God in their lives, following the example set forth by Jesus, they cultivate a spirit of compassion, forgiveness, and goodwill toward all, mirroring the perfection that God desires (Matt 5:43-48). In embracing this transformative love, one not only finds security and hope but also contributes to a world where divine grace and benevolence reign supreme.
Fanny Crosby’s life story serves as a poignant reminder that amidst life’s trials and tribulations, a deep-seated trust in God’s unfailing love and companionship can lead to a profound sense of security and peace that transcends earthly woes. In Jesus Christ, we find the ultimate source of hope, redemption, and unwavering security—a beacon of light in the midst of life’s darkest moments.
- Teddy Joseph is the pastor at the Stettler and Sedgewick Seventh-day Adventist Church.