God Moves in a Mysterious Way
Good morning, Immanuel. May these words calm our hearts in faith and expand our imaginations for what God is doing today.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD” (Isaiah 55:8).
William Cowper (1731-1800) is one of the greatest Christian poets and hymn writers who has ever lived. He was also one of the most tortured, suffering from severe depression for the entirety of his adult life. (Here is a wonderful, brief biography of his life and work by my dad.) From the depths of his suffering and darkness he wrote magnificently of God’s sovereignty in his beautiful hymn, “God Moves in a Mysterious Way.” May these words calm our hearts in faith and expand our imaginations for what God is doing today.
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 fashions up his bright designs, and works his sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints fresh courage take, the clouds that you much dread, are big with mercy and will 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.
Tenth Generation Family Gathering (May 26, 2024)
The latest update on our Tenth Generation Prayer. Learn how to give at tenthgeneration.org.
I have never heard this hymn and now I hope to never forget it.