Trinity Psalter Hymnal ‎#487

487. Sometimes a Light Surprises

1 Sometimes a light surprises
the Christian while he sings;
it is the Lord, who rises
with healing in his wings:
when comforts are declining,
he grants the soul again
a season of clear shining,
to cheer it after rain.

2 In holy contemplation
we sweetly then pursue
the theme of God’s salvation,
and find it ever new;
set free from present sorrow,
we cheerfully can say,
“Let the unknown tomorrow
bring with it what it may.”

3 It can bring with it nothing
but he will bear us through;
who gives the lilies clothing
will clothe his people too:
beneath the spreading heavens
no creature but is fed;
and he who feeds the ravens
will give his children bread.

4 Though vine nor fig tree neither
their wonted fruit should bear,
though all the field should wither,
nor flocks nor herds be there;
yet God the same abideth,
his praise shall tune my voice,
for, while in him confiding,
I cannot but rejoice.

Text Information

• First Line: Sometimes a light surprises
• Title: Sometimes a Light Surprises
• Author: William Cowper (1779)
• Meter: 7.6.7.6.D.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2018
• Scripture:
  2 Samuel 23:4-5
  ;
  Habakkuk 3:17-18
  ;
  Malachi 4:2
  ;
  Luke 12:22-31
• Topic: Christian Life; God: Abiding Presence of; Hope; Opening and Closing of the Year; Peace and Joy; Tribulation and Suffering; Trust and Assurance

Tune Information

• Name: BENTLEY
• Composer: John Hullah (1867)
• Meter: 7.6.7.6.D.
• Key: C Major