1 Amidst the mighty, where is he
who saith, and it is done?
Each varying scene of changeful life
is from the Lord alone.
2 He gives in gladsome bow’rs to dwell,
or clothes in sorrow’s shroud;
his hand hath form'd the light, his hand
hath form'd the dark’ning cloud.

3 Why should a living man complain
beneath the chast’ning rod?
Our sins afflict us; and the cross
must bring us back to God.
4 O sons of men! with anxious care
your hearts and ways explore;
return from paths of vice to God:
return, and sin no more!