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 purpose 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.

 

IN JANUARY 1773 COPWER EXPERIENCED SEVERE BREAKDOWN (ONE OF MANY), AND HAVING FAILED TO KILL HIMSELF IN RESPONCE TO WHAT HE THOUGHT WAS GOD'S DIRECT COMMAND, HE BECAME CONVINCED HE WAS ENTERALLY DAMANED. HE CEASED TO ATTEND CHURCH OR PRAY, SINCE BOTH WERE FUTILE.