Sometimes A Light Surprises

By William Cowper

Lyrics

1. Sometimes a light surprises
Believers while they sing;
Is is the Lord who rises
With healing in his wings;
When comforts are declining,
He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining
To cheer it after rain.

2. In holy contemplation,
We sweetly then pursue
The theme of God's salvation,
And find it ever new;
Set free from present sorrow,
We cheerfully can say,
E'en let th'unknown to tomorrow
Bring with it what it may.

3. It can bring with it nothing
But he will bear us through;
Who gives the lilies clothing
Will clothe his people, too;
Beneath the spreading heavens,
No creature is not fed,
And he who feeds the ravens
Will give his children bread.

4. The vine, nor fig tree neither,
Their wonted fruit should bear,
Tho' all the fields should wither,
Nor flocks, nor herds be there;
Yet God the same abiding,
His praise shall tune my voice,
For while in him confiding,
I cannot but rejoice.

Bible Reference

Habakkuk 3:17–18

About This Hymn

“Sometimes a Light Surprises” was written by William Cowper and first published in the Olney Hymns of 1779, a collection he compiled together with John Newton. The hymn reflects Cowper’s deep faith and his struggle with depression and doubt, yet it shines with assurance in the constancy of God’s love. Inspired by Habakkuk 3:17–18, it is a meditation on the believer’s joy that rises above circumstances.

The hymn begins with the unexpected joy that sometimes breaks into a Christian’s life, described as a light that surprises “the Christian while he sings.” This joy is not rooted in worldly pleasures or prosperity but in the unchanging presence and promises of Christ. Cowper reminds the singer that Jesus is a faithful Friend, able to cheer the heart in every trial, and that God will provide for His children in every need.

The verses move from reflections on divine comfort to a call for trust in God’s providence. Cowper draws imagery from nature, seasons, and harvest, showing that just as God cares for creation, He will surely care for His people. The hymn closes with confidence in God’s eternal reign, encouraging believers to rejoice in Him regardless of outward trials.

This hymn captures both the tenderness of Cowper’s heart and the strength of his faith, making it one of the most beloved from the Olney Hymns. It continues to encourage Christians today to look beyond fleeting circumstances and find joy in the God of salvation.