Just As I Am is a Christian hymn written by Charlotte Elliott in 1835. It conveys the idea of approaching God without needing to change or improve oneself first.
The hymn gained particular popularity after being featured in Billy Graham’s evangelistic crusades, where it was often played during altar calls.
Its message of grace, acceptance, and faith has made it one of the most well-known and loved hymns in Christian worship.
About the Author
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1789 |
| Death Year | 1871 |
Charlotte Elliott was born in Clapham. She was the daughter of Charles Elliott and the granddaughter of Rev. H. Venn of Huddersfield. She spent the first 32 years of her life mostly in Clapham, then moved to Brighton in 1823.
Her meeting with Dr. C. Malan of Geneva had a strong influence on her deep spiritual thinking, which shows clearly in her hymns.
Though often physically weak, Charlotte had a strong imagination and a thoughtful, intelligent mind. She loved poetry and music, which is evident in her writing.
She wrote about 150 hymns, and many are still used today. Her most famous ones include “Just As I Am” and “My God, My Father, While I Stray.“
Her hymns are renowned for their gentle tone, simple words, profound faith, and smooth flow, offering special comfort to those who are ill or grieving.
Representative Text
Just as I am – without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
-O Lamb of God, I come!
Just as I am – and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot,
-O Lamb of God, I come!
Just as I am – though toss’d about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
-O Lamb of God, I come!
Just as I am – poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need, in Thee to find,
-O Lamb of God, I come!
Just as I am – Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
-O Lamb of God, I come!
Just as I am – Thy love unknown
Has broken every barrier down;
Now to be Thine, yea, Thine alone,
-O Lamb of God, I come!
Just as I am – of that free love
The breadth, length, depth, and height to prove
Here for a season, then above,
-O Lamb of God, I come
Chords of Just As I Am
