Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

As some tall rock amidst the waves

John Newton · 1779

Source: Olney Hymns

Stanza 1

As some tall rock amidst the waves,
The fury of the tempest braves;
While the fierce billows toiling high,
Break at its foot and murm'ring die:

Stanza 2

Thus they, who in the LORD confide,
Though foes assault on every side;
Cannot he moved or overthrown,
For JESUS makes their cause his own.

Stanza 3

So faithful Stephen, undismayed,
The malice of the Jews surveyed;
The holy joy which filled his breast
A lustre on his face impressed.

Stanza 4

"Behold! he said, the world of light
Is opened to my strengthened sight;
My glorious LORD appears in view,
That JESUS, whom ye lately slew."

Stanza 5

With such a friend and witness near,
No form of death could make him fear;
Calm, amidst show'rs of stones, he kneels,
And only for his murd'rers feels.

Stanza 6

May we, by faith, perceive thee thus,
Dear Saviour, ever near to us!
This fight our peace, through life, shall keep,
And death be feared no more than sleep.