For the Poor

Portrait of William Cowper
William Cowper 1731–1800

When Hagar found the bottle spent And wept o'er Ishmael, A message from the Lord was sent To guide her to a well.

Should not Elijah's cake and cruse Convince us at this day, A gracious God will not refuse Provisions by the way?

His saints and servants shall be fed, The promise is secure; "Bread shall be given them," as He said, "Their water shall be sure."

Repasts far richer they shall prove, Than all earth's dainties are; 'Tis sweet to taste a Saviour's love, Though in the meanest fare.

To Jesus then your trouble bring, Nor murmur at your lot; While you are poor and He is King, You shall not be forgot.

Keep reading

Discover more of William Cowper’s poetry.

Explore all poems

Readers

Reader discussion 1 comment

Add your reading ↓
Readers
1
Longest reading
taylor20 words
  1. taylor Canada

    too cool. this is a great poem. I read Bout Hagar and Ishmael in religion class and it's so true.

Your turn

Shown with your comment.

Never published. Only so we can reach you.

Comments are read before they appear. See our terms.