It was written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris Kristofferson in 1973.
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 .
The opening lines, "I’m only human, I’m just a man," acknowledge personal limitations and the need for divine help to believe in one's potential. Merle Haggard One Day At A Time (Gospel Song)
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.
Watch Merle Haggard's moving performance of this gospel classic: Merle Haggard - One Day At A Time (1981) Stone Cold Country YouTube• Apr 13, 2022 It was written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris
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
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 You can listen to his performance on Spotify
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.