Wonderful Words of Life: A Devotional Reflection
“Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.” John 6:68
There’s something so comforting about old hymns—especially when life feels noisy or uncertain. The words of “Wonderful Words of Life” feel like a deep breath for the soul. Written by Philip P. Bliss in 1874, the hymn gently reminds us where to find our grounding, our direction, and our hope: in the eternal Word of God.
This week, I needed that reminder. It’s been one of those seasons where everything hits at once. My husband is carrying the stress of job uncertainty. We’re starting our first remodeling project tomorrow, and I’ve been packing up our entire bathroom and closet. And then—just to make things interesting—my son’s car brakes failed. By God’s grace, he was able to get it stopped safely at a gas station. But goodness, my heart has felt heavy. And in moments like these, I cling to those wonderful words of life.
A Hymn Born from Ministry and Revival
Philip Bliss was more than a songwriter—he was a servant in the gospel era of hymnody, partnering with revivalists like D.L. Moody and Daniel Whittle. He and his wife Lucy traveled and sang, spreading the hope of Christ through music. He penned “Wonderful Words of Life” while working on a Sunday School paper called Words of Life—an outreach effort to share the gospel in simple, accessible ways. Fitting, isn’t it? A song meant to stir our hearts toward the truth was born in the very act of sharing that truth.
The Message in the Music
Each verse of the hymn speaks directly to the beauty, power, and purpose of God’s Word:
Verse 1: God’s Word teaches faith and duty
Sometimes we just need to hear truth again. And again. Especially when life feels like it’s unraveling. God's Word is not only beautiful—it’s essential. It teaches us how to live with faith and integrity (Titus 2:11–12), reminding us what really matters.
Verse 2: God's Word calls us to heaven
I love that word wooing. It’s gentle, inviting, and full of love. God’s Word doesn’t push us with guilt—it draws us with grace. In the middle of stress and chaos, His voice calls us upward, reminding us there’s more than just what we see right now (Colossians 1:5).
Verse 3: God’s Word presents Jesus as Savior
The gospel is personal. Jesus is not just a Savior—He is the Savior. Through His Word, He offers peace, pardon, and eternal life. And that’s why we keep coming back to Scripture… because it reveals Jesus. Again and again.
Personal Takeaway
When my week feels like it’s pouring, when I’m overwhelmed by the physical and emotional weight of life—I turn to His Word. Not because I’m trying to be spiritual or check a box, but because I need those wonderful words to hold me together. Like Peter said to Jesus in John 6:68, “Where else would I go? You have the words of eternal life.”
Reflection Questions
What verse or passage has recently felt like a “wonderful word of life” to you?
When you’re stressed or overwhelmed, what helps draw you back to Scripture?
How can you help someone else experience the beauty of God’s Word this week?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the beautiful, wonderful words of life You’ve given us in Scripture. When life feels overwhelming, help me run to Your Word—not away from it. Remind me that You alone have the words of eternal life, and Your truth offers peace, hope, and strength for each day. Use me to share those words with others, that they too may see Your beauty and believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.