JUST AS I AM

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 1835

"Just As I Am," written by invalid British poet Charlotte Elliott in 1834-1835, is one of Christianity's most famous hymns, born from her despair over illness and search for faith. It is celebrated for its message of unconditional acceptance, famously used by evangelist Billy Graham as his signature "altar call" hymn. 


Key History of "Just As I Am":

Origin: Charlotte Elliott (1789–1871) was a portrait artist who became bedridden and depressed due to illness.

Inspiration: In 1834, she felt useless while watching her family raise money for a charity, but remembered the advice of a pastor, Dr. Caesar Malan, to come to God "just as you are," which inspired the lyrics.

Publication: It was first published in 1835 and later appeared in her The Invalid's Hymn Book (1836).

Music: The lyrics were paired with the popular tune "Woodworth" by William B. Bradbury in 1849.

Legacy: Billy Graham adopted it as his invitation song during crusades, and it was used as the title of his 1997 autobiography.u

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