Every Stormy Wind that Blows

Hugh Stowell became one of the outstanding evangelical leaders of his time. Born on this day in 1799 in the Isle of Man, he was known for the impact of his preaching, particularly when he served at Christ’s Church in Salford, a suburb of Manchester, England. He also was known for his love of children and always worked hard to make sure his church had a fine Sunday School.

Stowell knew first-hand that all of us experience the storms of life, but he realized that we can have peace when we trust in God. In 1828, he wrote a poem about this trust called “From Every Stormy Wind that Blows,” which he based on his study of the mercy seat in the Bible.

He wrote, “From every stormy wind that blows, from every swelling tide of woes, there is a calm, a sure retreat; ’tis found beneath the mercy seat.” This was a place “where Jesus sheds the oil of gladness on our heads; a place than all besides more sweet.” This is a place where we can soar, as “on eagles’ wings,” where “time and sense seem all no more; and heaven comes down, our souls to greet.” This poem became a hymn that is still sung today.

God provides a mercy seat as a place where He can meet His people. It symbolizes His desire to have an intimate relationship with you. He wants to meet you to give you shelter and peace. And He wants to teach you His ways.

Trust in Him. If you’re going through the storms of life, come into His presence.