copyright 1976 by Barry and Paul Epps.
Author of stanzas 1&2 unknown, 3 by Paul Epps
as found in Church Gospel Songs and Hymns
1)For all the heartaches and the tears,
For all the anguish and the pain;
For gloomy days and fruitless years,
And for the hopes I've lived in vain.
2)For ev'ry hill I've had to climb,
For ev'ry stone that bruised my feet;
For all the blood and sweat and grime,
For blinding storms and burning heat.
3)I thank Thee, Lord, for all the years,
For ev'ry burden of the day;
For all the heartaches and the fears,
That I have known along the way.
Chorus:
My heart sings a grateful song,
These were the things that made me strong;
I do give thanks, for now I know,
These were the things that made me grow.