O HAPPY DAY Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10 PHILIP DODDRIDGE

Eighteen of Monica Doddridge’s nineteen children died in infancy. When number twenty arrived on June 26, 1702, he too, appeared stillborn. But while being laid aside, he cried out. Monica determined then and there to raise Philip for the Lord. As a young child, he sat on her knees at the fireplace, where, Monica taught her son the lessons of Scripture.

When he was later orphaned, Philip wrote in his diary, “God is an immortal Father, my soul rejoices in him; He hath hitherto helped me and provided for me; may it be my study to approve myself a more affectionate, grateful, and dutiful child.” He was destitute but longed to be a minister. Philip set apart a day for earnest prayer. While praying, the postman arrived with a letter from a wealthy benefactor offering to finance his training. With that Philip resolved to live a life of prayer. He trained himself to pray without ceasing, even while getting washed and dressed in the morning.

At age 27, Philip was asked to become the head of a seminary in Northampton, England. Due to his frail health, he wanted to refuse the new responsibilities. But as he passed by a house, he overheard a child reading Deut. 33:25: “As your days, so shall your strength be.” He took it as from God and accepted the call.

The reputation of Northampton academy radiated through England, and students flocked there, in part, because of Philip’s chapel sermons and his powerful prayer life. For 22 years, Philip trained students, and his books became “must reading” for the Christians of his day – and ours. Philip is best remembered for his book, The Rise & Progress of Religion in thy Soul, and for his collection of nearly 400 hymns, which included “O Happy Day.”

O happy day, that fixed my choice On Thee, my Savior and my God! Well may this glowing heart rejoice, And tell its raptures all abroad.

Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away! He taught me how to watch and pray, And live rejoicing every day Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away

’Tis done: the great transaction’s done! I am the Lord’s and He is mine; He drew me, and I followed on; Charmed to confess the voice divine.

Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away! He taught me how to watch and pray, And live rejoicing every day Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away

Now rest, my long divided heart, Fixed on this blissful center, rest. Here have I found a nobler part; Here heavenly pleasures fill my breast.

Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away! He taught me how to watch and pray, And live rejoicing every day Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away