161. God Moves in a Mysterious Way

C.M.
by Cowper, 1779
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 sovereign 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.
Echoes of Grace Hymnbook Index