Sovereign Ruler of the Skies

by John Ryland

born: Jan. 29, 1753, Warwick, England
died: Jun. 25, 1825, Bristol, England

"Sovereign Ruler of the skies!
Ever gracious, ever wise!
All my times are in Thy hand,
All events at Thy command.

His decree, who formed the earth,
Fixed my first and second birth;
Parents, native place, and time,
All appointed were by Him.

He that formed me in the womb,
He shall guide me to the tomb;
All my times shall ever be
Ordered by His wise degree.

Times of sickness, times of health,
Times of penury and wealth,
Times of trial and of grief,
Times of triumph and relief.

Times the tempter's power to prove,
Times to taste a Saviour's love-
All shall come, and last, and end
As shall please my heavenly Friend.

Plagues and deaths around me fly;
Till He bids I cannot die;
Not a single shaft can hit
Till the God of love sees fit.

O Thou Gracious, Wise, and Just!
In Thy hands my life I trust:
Have I somewhat dearer still?
I resign it to Thy will.

May I always own Thy hand-
Still to the surrender stand;
Know that Thou art God alone,
I and mine are all Thy own.

Thee at all times will I bless;
Having Thee I all possess;
How can I bereave'd be,
Since I cannot part with Thee."