the origin

James Hervey (26 February 1714 – 25 December 1758)

Since all the downward tracts of time

God's watchful eye surveys,

O who so wise to choose our lot

Or to appoint our ways?

Good when He gives, supremely good,

Nor less when He denies;

Ev'n crosses from His sovereign hand

Are blessings in disguise.

Why should we doubt a Father's love,

So constant and so kind?

To His unerring, gracious will

Be every wish resigned.