About the song
“Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” by Don Williams, a truly comforting and universally relatable country ballad that encapsulates a simple, heartfelt prayer for peace and strength in the face of life’s daily challenges. Released in 1981, this song, penned by Dave Hanner, became another enduring hit for “The Gentle Giant” of country music, revered for its understated sincerity and its profound message of hope. It’s more than just a gospel song; it’s a quiet meditation on resilience, faith, and the simple desire for life to be kind.
The lyrics of “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” articulate a humble and earnest plea for divine grace and a measure of comfort as one navigates the uncertainties of everyday existence. The narrator expresses a desire for the day to bring peace, to avoid trouble, and to be a day free from the kind of struggles that test one’s spirit. The repeated phrase “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” serves as a central, almost conversational, prayer, reflecting a universal human longing for simplicity and tranquility amidst the complexities of life. The verses touch upon themes of love, family, and the quiet dignity of simply trying to do one’s best, acknowledging that while challenges may arise, a hopeful spirit can carry one through. Don Williams’s vocal delivery is characteristically warm, smooth, and deeply reassuring. His gentle baritone perfectly conveys the song’s prayerful tone, making the listener feel a sense of calm and empathy. There’s a profound sincerity in his voice that makes the humble petition feel deeply personal and widely relatable.
The musical arrangement of “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” is a classic example of Don Williams’s signature understated and heartfelt country sound. Featuring a gentle, flowing melody carried by acoustic guitars and a soft piano, with a subtle and supportive rhythm section and the warm, comforting sound of a steel guitar, the instrumentation creates a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. The production is clean and uncluttered, allowing Williams’s soothing vocals and the heartfelt simplicity of the lyrics to take center stage. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation and deep emotional resonance, evoking a sense of hope and spiritual comfort.
“Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” resonated deeply with audiences because it tapped into a universal human experience – the daily act of waking up and hoping for a positive day, despite the potential for challenges. The song’s humble yet profound prayer, combined with Don Williams’s incredibly sincere and comforting performance, struck a chord with listeners of all backgrounds. It became not just a country hit but a timeless anthem of quiet faith and simple optimism, a reminder that sometimes the best we can do is hope for goodness.
In essence, “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” is more than just a country ballad; it’s a gentle and profound prayer for peace, strength, and kindness in life’s daily journey, delivered with Don Williams’s signature warmth and sincerity. Its enduring popularity lies in its universal message and Williams’s ability to evoke a deep emotional connection with his humble and earnest petition for a day that is truly “good.”
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Lyrics
Lord, I hope this day is good
I’m feelin’ empty and misunderstood
I should be thankful, Lord, I know I should
But Lord, I hope this day is good
Lord, have you forgotten me
I’ve been prayin’ to you faithfully
I’m not sayin’ I’m a righteous man
But Lord, I hope you understand
I don’t need fortune and I don’t need fame
Send down the thunder, Lord, send down the rain
But when you’re plannin’ just how it will be
Plan a good day for me
Lord, I hope this day is good
I’m feelin’ empty and misunderstood
I should be thankful, Lord, I know I should
But Lord, I hope this day is good
You’ve been the King since the dawn of time
All that I’m asking is a little less crime
It might be hard for the devil to do
But it would be easy for You
Lord, I hope this day is good
I’m feelin’ empty and misunderstood
I should be thankful, Lord, I know I should
But Lord, I hope this day is good
