This hymn has been a powerful influence for me in applying the sovereignty of God. I have read the story behind its writing. It is said to be the favorite hymn of King Frederick William III of Prussia and was used by Johann Sebastian Bach in several different cantatas. It is in both Catholic and Protestant hymnals. It is one of those hymns that speaks to the truth of God’s will and His love for His saints. Although there is comfort in the words, I see the overwhelming presence of hope in this hymn.
Whate’er my God ordains is right His holy will abideth
I will be still whate’er He does and follow where He guideth
He is my God, though dark my road He holds me that I shall not fall
And so to Him I leave it all, and so to Him I leave it allWhate’er my God ordains is right He never will deceive me
He leads me by the proper path I know He will not leave me
I take, content, what He has sent His hand can turn my griefs away
And patiently I wait His day, and patiently I wait His dayWhate’er my God ordains is right though now this cup in drinking
May bitter seem to my faint heart I take it all, unshrinking
My God is true, each morn anew sweet comfort yet shall fill my heart
And pain and sorrow shall depart and pain and sorrow shall departWhate’er my God ordains is right here shall my stand be taken
Though sorrow, need, or death be mine yet I am not forsaken
My Father’s care is round me there He holds me that I shall not fall
And so to Him I leave it all and so to Him I leave it all