Contentment

Fierce passions discompose the mind,

As tempests vex the sea;

But calm content and peace we find,

When, Lord, we turn to Thee.

In vain by reason and by rule

We try to bend the will;

For none but in the Saviour's school

Can learn the heavenly skill.

Since at His feet my soul has sate,

His gracious words to hear,

Contented with my present state,

I cast on Him my care.

"Art thou a sinner, soul?" He said,

"Then how canst thou complain!

How light thy troubles here, if weigh'd

With everlasting pain!

"If thou of murmuring wouldst be cured,

Compare thy griefs with mine;

Think what my love for thee endured,

And thou wilt not repine.

"'Tis I appoint thy daily lot,

And I do all things well;

Thou soon shalt leave this wretched spot,

And rise with me to dwell.

"In life my grace shall strength supply,

Proportion'd to thy day;

At death thou [still] shalt find me nigh,

To wipe thy tears away."

Thus I, who once my wretched days

In vain repinings spent,

Taught in my Saviour's school of grace,

Have learnt to be content.

William Cowper