Merle Haggard One Day At — A Time (gospel Song)

It was written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris Kristofferson in 1973.

She called her friend Kris Kristofferson to help her finish it; together, they wrote the first verse in about 20 minutes.

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 Merle Haggard One Day At A Time (Gospel 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.

The lyrics are framed as a direct prayer to "sweet Jesus," asking for the strength to face life's challenges one step at a time. It was written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris

Merle Haggard's rendition is widely considered one of the most "soothing" and "heartfelt" versions of the hymn. It appeared on his , Songs for the Mama That Tried , a tribute to his mother's faith and her influence on his life. You can listen to his performance on Spotify or view official uploads on YouTube .

is a cornerstone of country gospel music, famously covered by Merle Haggard on his 1981 album, Songs for the Mama That Tried . The song is a humble plea for strength and guidance, emphasizing a reliance on faith to navigate the struggles of daily life. The Meaning & Message The Story Behind the Song Wilkin wrote the

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