The water stood like walls of brass

The words

1. 1

   Stanza 1. The water stood like walls of brass,To let the sons of Israel pass;And from the rock in rivers burstAt Moses’ prayer to quench their thirst.

2. 2

   Stanza 2. The fire restrained by God’s commands,Could only burn his people’s bands;Too faint, when he was with them there,To singe their garments or their hair.

3. 3

   Stanza 3. At Daniel’s feet the lions layLike harmless lambs, nor touched their prey;And ravens, which on carrion fed,Procured Elijah flesh and bread.

4. 4

   Stanza 4. Thus creatures only can fulfillTheir great Creator’s holy will;And when his servants need their aid,His purposes must be obeyed.

5. 5

   Stanza 5. So if his blessing he refuse,Their pow’r to help they quickly lose,Sure as on creatures we depend,Our hopes in disappointment end.

6. 6

   Stanza 6. Then let us trust the LORD alone,And creature–confidence disown;Nor if they threaten need we fear,They cannot hurt if he be near.

7. 7

   Stanza 7. If instruments of pain they prove,Still they are guided by his love;As lancets by the surgeon’s skill,Which wound to cure, and not to kill.

Olney Hymns (1779), Book 2, Hymn 97. John Newton. Public domain. CCEL transcription with modernized spelling. www.praylock.com/olney-hymns/2-97