When a black overspreading cloud

The words

1. 1

   Stanza 1. When a black overspreading cloudHas dark’ned all the air;And peals of thunder roaring loudProclaim the tempest near.

2. 2

   Stanza 2. Then guilt and fear, the fruits of sin,The sinner oft pursue;A louder storm is heard within,And conscience thunders too.

3. 3

   Stanza 3. The law a fiery language speaks,His danger he perceives;Like Satan, who his ruin seeks,He trembles and believes.

4. 4

   Stanza 4. But when the sky serene appears,And thunders roll no more;He soon forgets his vows and fears,Just as he did before.

5. 5

   Stanza 5. But whither shall the sinner flee,When nature’s mighty frame,The pond’rous earth, and air, and sea,Shall all dissolve in flame?

6. 6

   Stanza 6. Amazing day! it comes apace!The Judge is hasting down!Will sinners bear to see his face,Or stand before his frown?

7. 7

   Stanza 7. Lord, let thy mercy find a wayTo touch each stubborn heartThat they may never hear thee say,“Ye cursed ones depart.”

8. 8

   Stanza 8. Believers, you may well rejoice!The thunders loudest strainsShould be to you a welcome voice,That tells you, “JESUS REIGNS!”

Olney Hymns (1779), Book 2, Hymn 83. John Newton. Public domain. CCEL transcription with modernized spelling. www.praylock.com/olney-hymns/2-83