eHymns.org

George Michael Mangold

Unknown

Alvin (Bud) Herman Manz in 2024

Though great dangers oft surround us
Passing through life's stormy sea,
Where the clouds of help gloom and darkness
Hover o'er our heads, and we
Through the tempest must keep rowing,
In distress and scarcely knowing
Whether we the poor, unknown,
Of our Lord are left alone.

Yet the Lord is ever near us;
He doth guide our vessel's course;
He would test our love and firmness,
Giving storm and wind their course.
That our faith be shown in clearness,
Seemingly He hides His nearness;
If we plead with fervent will,
He will bid the sea be still.

He is Lord; when He commandeth
Storms abate, and ocean waves
Will, although they rage with madness,
Gently cease; for He who saves
Gives repose; and in distraction
It is He who gives protection;
He will ne'er His own for sake
Nor His holy cov'nant break.

Therefore, trusting in God only,
Place your confidence in Him;
He is near, though we feel lonely,
Help delays and light grows dim.
Be consoled and trust in Jesus,
In this Rock your strength increases;
Let your faith rest in His blood,
Fearing neither storm nor flood.

Should our faith and courage falter
In the tempest of this world,
Fervent prayer upon the altar
Is an anchor that will hold
In the wounds of Jesus surely,
Grounded on His blood securely,
And ascends, through faith alone
To His holy, sacred throne.

Oh, this anchor is united
By the endless chain of love,
That extends from earth beneath us
To our Father's home above;
Jesus draws in love so tender,
Till we all the radiant splendor
Of that peaceful harbor see
Where our home fore'er shall be.

Jesus' cross, that is the symbol
Of the banner that we bear;
Under this, what need to tremble?
Who need falter or despair?
He that in this sign believeth,
There a heavenly crown receiveth;
After the victorious fight
Cometh he to realms of light.

Therefore, on, beloved pilgrims!
Faithfully your way pursue;
Yonder for you as His children
Lies that peaceful haven, too.
There the little bark arriveth,
After tempest it surviveth;
For your compass, Holy Writ,
Keeps thy bark and guideth it.