God Moves in a Mysterious Way

Van Gogh, Almond Blossom

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2. I was reminded of William Cowper's (1731-1800) beautiful hymn this morning and thought I'd share it with you.  Cowper suffered from deep depression for most of his life; his heartfelt hymns and poems reflect a heart that held on to God's mercies, oftentimes in the midst of despair.  His works bring solace as they help lift my eyes above my circumstances to rest on a gracious God and trust in his loving, wonderful mysterious way.
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4. God moves in a mysterious way
   His wonders to perform;
   He plants His footsteps in the sea
   And rides upon the storm.
5. Deep in unfathomable mines
   Of never failing skill
   He treasures up His bright designs
   And works His sov’reign will.
6. Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
   The clouds ye so much dread
   Are big with mercy and shall break
   In blessings on your head.
7. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
   But trust Him for His grace;
   Behind a frowning providence
   He hides a smiling face.
8. His purposes will ripen fast,
   Unfolding every hour;
   The bud may have a bitter taste,
   But sweet will be the flow’r.
9. Blind unbelief is sure to err
   And scan His work in vain;
   God is His own interpreter,
   And He will make it plain.

Lamentations 3:19-26
Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind,and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning;great is your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,“therefore I will hope in him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for him,to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietlyfor the salvation of the LORD.