Light Shining Out of Darknessby William Cowper, 1731 - 1800
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,
With 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 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.
William Cowper led a quiet life in the English countryside. His life, though, was less than peaceful as he carried the burden of mental anguish. From his writings, it is evident that he feared and worshiped God, and wanted to share his faith with the world. Perhaps his poetry gave him relief from his pain and suffering.
"Light Shining Out of Darkness" is a testimony of faith, challenging us to believe, to hope, to depend on God's grace, and trust his mighty, providential hand, even when we don't understand. Take this message of God's glorious loving care with you this weekend. Savor your time. Spend moments with your family. Sanctify the Lord in your heart. Share the Savior's love and mercy. Enjoy the many gifts our Heavenly Father has given, and worship him and give him glory. May you be blessed and find his presence at every turn.
Beautiful poem...and wonderful recommendations for the weekend! May you and your family be blessed, also....
ReplyDeleteThis is a very beautiful poem and picture. I imagined this type of church and garden when I was reading the Janette Oke and T. Davis Bunn book series of the Acadian town that Katherine lived in. :) Have you read that series? I love Janette Oke's books because her faith in God really shows through her writing and stories.
ReplyDeleteHugs & Blessings,
~Katherine~
This poem is just beautiful-makes me want to read more of his works. I believe that I will take your advice and spend a peaceful weekend with family and friends and focus myself on the Lord's blessings:) Your posts always touch my heart and give me the guidance that I seem to need. It's funny how God works:)
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely post! Thanks for visiting me and leaving your link so I may pay you a call:-)
ReplyDeleteAndrea,
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting me on Delights of the Heart.
Marilyn
What a lovely poem and picture. It is always restful to visit your blog.
ReplyDeleteBlessings my friend.
You words to me are kind and gracious and more than I deserve. Still, I receive them and say thanks from the bottom of my heart. My heart echoes Cowper's anguish and joy all wrapped up as one. I, too, want to be God's Light shining out of darkness.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed and rested Sabbath pause.
peace~elaine
The most valuable lessons come from the bad times and good things come to those who wait! We all can never interpret God and his secret plans for us. But, he shall reveal them sooner or later because there is a time for God to intervene in our life and edit it:) So do not jump to conclusions and analyse God's actions! :)
ReplyDeleteAastha MAthur, India