(You will find it helpful to LISTEN to this comforting hymn, as you READ the text below. Or you may want to WATCH the Video on YouTube)
God has not promised, skies always blue;
Flower-strewn pathways, all our lives through.
God has not promised, sun without rain;
Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.
God has not promised, we shall not know,
Toil and temptation, trouble and woe.
He has not told us, we shall not bear,
Many a burden, many a care.
God has not promised, smooth roads and wide,
Swift, easy travel, needing no guide.
Never a mountain, rocky and steep,
Never a river, turbid and deep.
But God has promised, strength for the day,
Rest for the labor, light for the way.
Grace for the trials, help from above,
Unfailing kindness, undying love!
He has not promised, we shall not know,
Toil and temptation, trouble and woe.
He has not told us, we shall not bear,
Many a burden, many a care.
“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
I have called you by name; you are Mine.
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.
And When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not
be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior!”
Isaiah 43:1-3