# Why Art Thou Cast Down? explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

The chapter encourages the believer to trust in God's providence and faithfulness despite present anxieties and trials. It reminds the soul that God has guided and provided thus far, and will continue to do so, leading ultimately to heaven where all sorrows are compensated.

## Themes in this chapter

### Faith and Trust in Christ

The poem urges the heart to cease anxious cares and trust in the Lord's wisdom, love, and power, citing past faithfulness as grounds for future confidence.

### Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life

The final stanza looks forward to heaven as the ultimate compensation for present trials, encouraging endurance.

## Character check-ins

### David

Referenced as an example of drawing comfort from God's past deliverances (from bear and lion).

### Goliath

Mentioned as a symbol of formidable opposition that can be defied because of God's presence.

### The Lord

Addressed as the guide and provider who has brought the believer safely thus far and promises ultimate victory.

## Key lines

> Be still, my heart! these anxious cares To thee are burdens, thorns, and snares;

Calm yourself, my heart! These worries are only burdens, thorns, and traps for you.

_The opening line admonishes the heart to cease its anxious thoughts, which are seen as harmful._

> Brought safely by his hand thus far, Why wilt thou now give place to fear?

Since God has safely led you to this point, why would you now allow fear to take hold?

_The poet reasons that past divine protection should dispel present fear._

> Like David thou may'st comfort draw, Saved from the bear's and lion's paw;

You can take comfort like David, who was rescued from the paw of the bear and the lion.

_Referencing David's deliverance from wild animals as a type of God's saving power._

> He who has help'd me hitherto, Will help me all my journey through,

The One who has helped me up to now will continue to help me throughout my entire journey.

_Expresses confidence in God's ongoing assistance._

> Though rough and thorny be the road, It leads thee home apace to God;

Even though the path is rough and thorny, it quickly leads you home to God.

_The trials of life are temporary and lead to the eternal home with God._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/40-why-art-thou-cast-down
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters