William Cowper

William Cowper (pronounced Cooper) was born on this day in Great Berkhampstead, Hertfordshire in 1731. His father was a chaplain to George II. Despite bouts of depression, he became a renowned poet and hymn-writer. With John Newton, he compiled two volumes of sacred texts--which included such hymns as There is a Fountain Filled With Blood, Lord, My Soul with Pleasure Springs, and O for a Closer Walk with God. All are wonderful expositions of the Gospel. I think my favorite though, is God Moves in a Mysterious Way:

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 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.