Church Hymnal (Fifth Ed.) ‎#13

13. God moves in a mysterious way

1 God moves in a mysterious way
his wonders to perform;
he plants his footsteps in the sea,
and rides upon the storm.

2 Deep in unfathomable mines‿
of never-failing skill
he treasures up his bright designs,
and works his soverign will.

3 Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
the clouds ye so much dread
are big with mercy, and shall break‿
in blessings on your head.

4 Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
but trust him for his grace;
behind a frowning providence
he hides a smiling face.

5 His purposes will ripen fast,
unfolding every hour;
the bud may have a bitter taste,
but sweet will be the flower.

6 Blind unbelief is sure to err,
and scan his work in vain;
God is his own interpreter,
and he will make it plain.

Text Information

• First Line: God moves in a mysterious way
• Author: William Cowper (1731–1800)
• Meter: 86 86 (CM)
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2000
• Topic: God the Father, Creator: God's Guidance and Grace

Tune Information

• Name: LONDON NEW
• Meter: 86 86 (CM)
• Incipit: 15315 61751 35215
• Key: D Major
• Source: Melody from the Scottish Psalter (Edinburgh, 1635); adpt. in Playford's Psalmes (London, 1671)
• Notes: For an explanation of the small notes above the stave, see the Musical Preface.