William Cowper
November 26, 1731 – April 25, 1800
Poet & Hymn Writer
Wrote 'God Moves in a Mysterious Way' through the darkness of depression
Biography
English poet and hymn writer who collaborated with John Newton on the Olney Hymns collection. Despite battling severe depression throughout his life, he wrote some of the most enduring hymns in the English language, including 'God Moves in a Mysterious Way' and 'There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood.'
Faith & Testimony
Cowper's faith was forged through profound suffering — he struggled with depression and doubt yet clung to Christ. His hymns are remarkable for their honesty about spiritual darkness while affirming God's sovereignty. His collaboration with John Newton at Olney produced one of the most influential hymn collections in history.