The story behind this song:

Although we might tend to think of the older hymns that are birthed in times of testing, there are, of course, hymns and songs from more recent hymnists that have come via difficult circumstances. One such song is “What A Faithful God Have I.”

Robert & Dawn Critchley joint authors of this song were involved in leading worship at Niagara Community Church, Niagara, Canada. During their time there they were blessed with 4 children: Bethany, Noah, Gideon and Elijah. Gideon John Critchley died just days after his birth because of multiple health complications.

Robert and Dawn testify that it was the eternal love and grace of God that gave them both hope and comfort through this difficult time of their lives. They know that Gideon was not a mistake and that he was “fearfully and wonderfully made”. The presence of the Lord was especially evident to both of them in that difficult time.

Through the comfort that they received from God (that Gideon was whole and in the arms of Jesus and that one day they would be with their son again) they have had the privilege and consolation of comforting others in life’s sufferings. Out of the suffering of that time came the song “What A Faithful God.”

MARANATHA!