The second verse contrasts Jesus’ time on earth with the modern world, which the singer describes as "worse now than then," filled with "pushing and shoving" that crowds the mind. The Story Behind the Song
Wilkin wrote the chorus during a period of intense personal despair, struggling with alcoholism and depression. After a minister suggested she "thank God for [her] problems," she went home and the chorus flowed out as a prayer at her piano. Merle Haggard One Day At A Time (Gospel Song)
First recorded by Marilyn Sellars in 1974, it won the Dove Award for Song of the Year in 1975. Cristy Lane later took the song to #1 on the Billboard country charts in 1980. Merle Haggard's Version The second verse contrasts Jesus’ time on earth