Monday 18th November 2024 marks a day that can make British hymn-lovers smile. On this day in 1773, the now famous hymn ‘God Moves in a Mysterious Way’ by William Cowper was first published. If you’ve ever heard the phrase ‘God moves in mysterious ways,’ you have William Cowper to thank for that! It’s one of those phrases that taps into our experience of life — full of surprises, unexpected turns, and… some mysteries! Like waiting on a queue only to realise it was quicker two lanes over (if only you’d known!). But long before the hymn became a quote machine, it was (and still is) a deep expression of trusting God’s sovereignty, even when life doesn’t make sense.
Think about it. We wonder about many things: why we didn’t get the promotion, why certain relationships didn’t work out, or why difficult things happen to us or loved ones. Yet Cowper’s hymn reminds us that God is working, even in unseen ways. It points towards truths found in Isaiah 55:8-9, where God says that His thoughts are higher than ours, and in Proverbs 3:5, where we’re encouraged to ‘trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.’
But let’s be honest – God’s mysterious ways aren’t always comfortable to us. Joseph was thrown into a pit and later made prime minister of Egypt. The pit probably wasn’t his plan, yet God’s purpose was bigger than what Joseph could see at the time (Genesis 50:20). Or how about Moses? He certainly didn’t expect to return to Egypt after fleeing to a quiet life of shepherding, yet through God’s plan, he became the leader who freed the Israelites (Exodus 3). You see, God’s timing and designs often reveal themselves later — a bit like the way a sunrise comes gradually at dawn. In the slowly brightening moments of life, we begin to see that God truly is at work, even during seasons of struggle or waiting.
Reflection Verse:
Romans 8:28 assures us that ‘in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.’ How does this encourage you in navigating the ‘mysterious ways’ seasons of your life?
Action Step:
Are you in a season where you’re finding it hard to ‘see’ God’s hand? Take some time today to pray for trust in God’s perfect plan, even when the road seems uncertain. Journal about one ‘mysterious’ moment you’ve experienced recently and reflect on whether hindsight is bringing any clarity.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you that you are always at work, even when we cannot see it. Help us to trust in your plans and believe that your ways, though higher than ours, are also good. May we rest in your sovereignty, knowing that nothing escapes your eye, and nothing happens in vain. Give us patience when we’re confused, peace when we’re uncertain, and faith to move forward in confidence that you are at work in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
