He Rides Upon the Storm

Both at home and in my office we are praying much for a friend whose twentysomething son died on Sunday night. Hearing the news made my hugs and kisses of my own three daughters much more significant. So today in our chapel I will lead a hymn from long ago. The poetry of William Cowper is deeply moving, reminding us of God's greatness, from the depths of trouble. I recall also the address of John Piper on Cowper, that he was often deeply depressed and unable to rest in God's grace in His life. So, it is even more remarkable that a poet in such a gloomy state could write with such confidence and faith in God's providence. May we also have a strong confidence in God's grace and power, so that in our worst and most troubling times we will hang on to God's glory and not give way to despair.

God Moves in a Mysterious Way by William Cowper

God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines Of never failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs And works His sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy and shall break In blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain.