877. How firm a foundation, you saints of the Lord

Author: ‘K’ in Rippon’s Selection 1787

How firm a foundation, you saints of the Lord,
is laid for your faith in his excellent word!
What more can he say than to you he has said,
to all who for refuge to Jesus have fled?

2. In every condition-in sickness, in health,
in poverty’s grip or abounding in wealth,
at home or abroad, on the land, on the sea-
as days may demand shall your strength ever be.

3. Since Jesus is with you, do not be afraid;
since he is your God, you need not be dismayed:
he’ll strengthen you, guard you, and help you to stand,
upheld by his righteous, omnipotent hand.

4. When through the deep waters he calls you to go,
you will not be drowned in the rivers of woe;
for he will be with you in trouble, to bless
and work for your good through your deepest distress.

5. When through fiery trials your pathway shall lie,
his grace all-sufficient shall be your supply;
the flames shall not harm you: his only design
your dross to consume and your gold to refine.

6. The soul that in Jesus has found its repose,
he will not, he cannot, desert to its foes;
that soul, though all hell should endeavour to shake,
he’ll never, no never, no never forsake!