God Moves in a Mysterious Way

William Cowper’s life (1731-1800) was beset with emotional problems.  His mother died when he was six, at school he was teased and ridiculed, and his father prevented him from marrying the girl he loved.  Forced to study law, he panicked when he learned he would have his bar exam before the House of Lords – and tried to commit suicide.  After a year in an insane asylum, he was released into the care of a Christian couple.  He spent many days in the company of John Newton (Amazing Grace) and found hymn writing was his best therapy.  Here’s his most famous and cherished hymn…

“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.”