By Rev. Ralph Manuel -- “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” (Habakkuk 2:14)

As we arrive at the end of one year and the beginning of another, it is natural to take stock of what has occurred while looking forward in anticipation of what may come.

A wonderful hymn for just such an occasion is “God Is Working His Purpose Out.” This was written in 1894 by Arthur C. Ainger, a native of England, who was teaching at Eton College at the time. This hymn is not in our current hymnal, but was included in the 1975 edition of Baptist Hymnal.

Take a few moments to meditate on the stirring message found in the words of this hymn.

To God be the glory,

Ralph

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GOD IS WORKING HIS PURPOSE OUT

God is working his purpose out as year succeeds to year;

God is working his purpose out, and the time is drawing near;

Nearer and nearer draws the time, the time that shall surely be,

When the earth shall be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea.

From the east to utmost west, where’er man’s foot hath trod,

By the mouth of many messengers goes forth the voice of God;

Give ear to me, ye continents, ye isles, give ear to me,

That the earth shall be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea.

What can we do to work God’s work, to prosper and increase

The brotherhood of all mankind, the reign of the Prince of Peace?

What can we do to hasten the time, the time that shall surely be,

When the earth shall be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea?

March we forth in the strength of God with the banner of Christ unfurled,

That the light of the glorious gospel of truth may shine throughout the world;

Fight we the fight with sorrow and sin to set their captives free,

That the earth shall be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea.

All we can do is nothing worth unless God blesses the deed;

Vainly we hope for the harvest-tide till God gives life to the seed;

Yet nearer and nearer draws the time, the time that shall surely be,

When the earth shall be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea.