Peace After a Storm
The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's love and constancy, and the need for humility and self-abhorrence in spiritual growth.
William Cowper's sermon reflects on the struggle of doubt and fear in the midst of darkness, but finding redemption and clarity in the presence of the Redeemer. He acknowledges the tendency of the heart to wander and harbor negative thoughts, yet emphasizes the unchanging love and faithfulness of God. Despite the challenges in maintaining faith, Cowper finds solace in the power of one look from the Lord to subdue disobedience and bring peace. He humbly recognizes his own shortcomings and praises God for His forgiveness and constant grace.
Text
1 When darkness long has veil'd my mind,
And smiling day once more appears;
Then, my Redeemer, then I find
The folly of my doubts and fears.
2 Straight I upbraid my wand'ring heart,
And blush that I should ever be
Thus prone to act so base a part,
Or harbour one hard thought of thee!
3 Oh ! let me then at length be taught
What I am still so slow to learn;
That God is love, and changes not,
Nor knows the shadow of a turn.
4 Sweet truth, and easy to repeat!
But when my faith is sharply try'd,
I find myself a learner yet,
Unskilful, weak, and apt to slide.
5 But, O my Lord, one look from thee
Subdues the disobedient will;
Drives doubt and discontent away,
And thy rebellious worm is still.
6 Thou art as ready to forgive,
As I am ready to repine;
Thou, therefore, all the praise receive;
Be shame and self-abhorrence mine.
Sermon Outline
- The Folly of Doubts and Fears
- The Need for Spiritual Growth
- The Power of God's Forgiveness
- The impact of God's forgiveness on the heart
- The importance of humility and self-abhorrence
Key Quotes
“Then, my Redeemer, then I find The folly of my doubts and fears.” — William Cowper
“But, O my Lord, one look from thee Subdues the disobedient will;” — William Cowper
“Thou art as ready to forgive, As I am ready to repine;” — William Cowper
Application Points
- Recognize the futility of your doubts and fears, and acknowledge God's love and constancy.
- Cultivate humility and self-abhorrence to facilitate spiritual growth.
- Seek God's forgiveness, and be willing to receive it with a humble heart.