God Moves In A Mysterious Way
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William Cowper (pronounced Cooper) knew what it meant to suffer. He was born in 1731 in a small town near London. His mother died at age 6. At a young age he was cruelly mistreated (perhaps even sexually abused) by an older boy. He fell in love at age 18, but his father didn't approve so he never married. After graduating law school, he was offered a government position but was so terrified of the job interview that he attempted suicide. He survived but was committed to an insane asylum.
Eventually he was released and became friends with a pastor named John Newton, the author of the beloved hymn Amazing Grace. Through that relationship Cowper came to repent and believe in Jesus Christ. But his suffering did not end after becoming a Christian. He continued to battle depression and suffered multiple failed suicide attempts. Yet Cowper fought to remind himself that God reigns by writing hymns like this:
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 sov'reign 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 ev'ry hour;
the bud may have a bitter taste,
but sweet will be the flow'r.
Blind unbelief is sure to err,
and scan his work in vain;
God is his own interpreter,
and he will make it plain.
For a beautiful rendition of Cowper's hymn, watch the video below.