Unspecified occasion.

Based on the nine verses of the hymn by Paul Fleming, 1642 (Fischer-Tümpel, I, #439).

1734, Leipzig.

BG 22; NBA I/34.

1. Chorus [Verse 1] (S, A, T, B)

In all my undertakings
I let the Master counsel,
Who all things can and owns;
He must in every matter,
If it's to be accomplished,
Himself advise and act.

2. Aria [Verse 2] (B)

Nought is too late or early
No matter how I labor,
My worry is in vain.
He may with all my dealings
Dispose as he is willing,
I give it to his care.

3. Recit. [Verse 3] (T)

To me can nothing happen
But what he hath laid open
And what shall make me blest:
I take it as he giveth;
What he of me desireth
Is also what I quest.

4. Aria [Verse 4] (T)

I trust in his dear mercy,
Which me from every danger,
From every evil guards.
If I love by his commandments,
There will be nought to harm me,
Nought lacking that I need.

5. Recit. [Verse 5] (A)

May he seek from my error
In mercy to release me,
Extinguish all my wrong!
He'll be for my transgression
Not strict in his decision
And yet with me bear long.

6. Aria [Verse 6] (A)

Though I be late retiring,
Awake in early morning,
Lie abed or continue forth
In weakness and in bond,
And blows stand all around
Yet comforts me his word.

7. Aria [Verse 7] (S, B)

For if he hath decided,
Then will I uncomplaining
Unto my fate press on!
No mishap midst the many
Will seem to me too cruel,
I will it overcome.

8. Aria [Verse 8] (S)

To him I am committed
For dying and for living
Whene'er he me doth bid.
I leave to his attention;
He knows the proper time.

9. Chorale [Verse 9] (S, A, T, B)

To thee be true, O spirit,
And trust in him now only,
Who hath created thee;
Let happen what may happen,
Thy Father who's in heaven
In all things counsels well.

© Copyright Z. Philip Ambrose

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