Phil Flemings Column ('Count your blessings, name them one by one', September 21) brought back memories of my days in the Mission Hall in Glasgow in my youth.

The hymn 'Count Your Blessings' was often chosen as a favourite.

I thought he and others would like to see the full text of the hymn (see below). It was written to encourage us to be grateful for what we have, to know that ultimately God is in control of our lives and every blessing we receive is mediated through His Son Jesus.

An old hymn not often sung now but with a wealth of promises if we look for them in the right direction.

1. 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,

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

2. Are you ever burdened with a load of care?

Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?

Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,

And you will be singing as the days go by.

3. 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 Lord on high.

4. 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

The Rev Crawford McIntyre (retired)

Oxenholme