From Every Stormy Wind that Blows lyrics
Tune Name: RETREAT
Composer: Thomas Hastings
Meter: 8.6.8.6 (CM)
Hymnbook Source: 19th-century American hymnals
Verse 1
From every stormy wind that blows,
From every swelling tide of woes,
There is a calm, a sure retreat;
‘Tis found beneath the mercy seat.
Verse 2
There is a place where Jesus sheds
The oil of gladness on our heads;
A place of all on earth most sweet;
It is the blood bought mercy seat.
Verse 3
There is a scene where spirits blend,
Where friend holds fellowship with friend;
Though sundered far, by faith they meet
Around one common mercy seat.
Verse 4
Ah! there, on eagles’ wings we soar,
And sin and sorrow molest no more;
And heav’n comes down, our souls to greet,
While glory crowns the mercy seat.
Verse 5
Oh, let my hand forget her skill,
My tongue be silent, cold, and still,
This bounding heart forget to beat,
If I forget the mercy seat!
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | From Every Stormy Wind that Blows |
| Author / Lyricist | Philip Doddridge (1702–1751) |
| Composer / Tune | Traditional / adapted 19th century |
| Date Written / Published | Early 18th century |
| Historical Context | Written in post-Reformation England; emphasizes God’s providence and guidance through trials. |
| Theme / Message | God’s providence and faithfulness in life’s challenges. |
| Notable Features | Structured in strophic form; adaptable to various hymn tunes. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Included in many English-language hymnals; widely sung in congregations. |
| Source / Scholarship | The English Hymn: A Critical and Historical Study – J.R. Watson |
Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Philip Doddridge, Nonconformist Minister & Hymn Writer, 1702–1751 | Doddridge’s focus on divine guidance and comfort in trials mirrors the pastoral message of this hymn. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian highlights the hymn’s use of imagery to convey spiritual comfort and protection amid life’s difficulties. |
| Isaac Watts, English Hymn Writer & Theologian, 1674–1748 | Watts’ hymns on reliance upon God’s providence reinforce the central themes of guidance and solace. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton’s writings on God’s sustaining hand align with the hymn’s assurance of divine care. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley often emphasizes trust in God during adversity, illustrating the theological background for this hymn. |
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