Love Lifted Me

“Love Lifted Me” is a jubilant and reassuring gospel hymn that celebrates the saving power of Christ’s love. Written in 1912 by James Rowe with music by Howard E. Smith, the hymn uses vivid imagery drawn from the New Testament account of Peter sinking in the stormy sea and being rescued by Jesus (Matthew 14:30–31). This visual metaphor of sinking in sin and being lifted by divine love resonates deeply with many believers, making the hymn a beloved testimony of salvation.

The first verse sets the tone with a clear spiritual analogy: “I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore, very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more.” It vividly depicts the hopeless condition of man without Christ. But the turning point comes with the line, “But the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry,” emphasizing that salvation begins when Christ intervenes. The refrain bursts with joy: “Love lifted me! When nothing else could help, love lifted me!” It is both a declaration and a celebration of the power of God’s redeeming love.

The second and third stanzas continue with themes of faith, obedience, and service. In verse two, Rowe exhorts: “All my heart to Him I give, ever to Him I’ll cling,” showing that salvation is not merely a one-time rescue but the beginning of a life of devotion. The believer’s response to being saved is love in return, lived out through obedience and worship. The third stanza turns outward, focusing on the sinner in need, encouraging all to look to Jesus: “He your Savior wants to be, be saved today.” Thus, the hymn shifts from personal testimony to gospel invitation, embodying the evangelistic spirit of early 20th-century revivalism.

James Rowe (1865–1933) was a prolific hymnwriter originally from England who immigrated to the United States. He worked in the railway industry before devoting his life to gospel songwriting. Howard E. Smith, who composed the music, was a church organist and reportedly struggled with health issues at the time of composition. Despite his physical limitations, Smith managed to create a lively and uplifting melody that matched the joyful message of the lyrics.

“Love Lifted Me” has endured over the years due to its simplicity, powerful imagery, and memorable refrain. It is a hymn that resonates with people of all ages, especially because it connects deeply with the universal human experience of needing rescue and finding it in the love of Jesus Christ. Its straightforward melody and rhythm make it easy to sing, often featured in Sunday schools, revivals, and worship services across denominational lines.

At its heart, this hymn proclaims that when human effort fails, divine love succeeds. The message is timeless: we are helpless without Christ, but His love is mighty to save. “Love Lifted Me” is a song of hope, a shout of joy, and a reminder that God’s love reaches into the deepest waters to pull us to safety.