Author: Georges Michel Mangold (1822-1894) Music Source: German Melody, 1550
1. Though great dangers oft surround us Passing through life’s stormy sea, Where the clouds of 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 forsake, Nor His holy cov’nant break.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.