Whate’er My God Ordains Is Right

“Whate’er My God Ordains Is Right” is a hymn of submission, trust, and quiet faith in God’s sovereign will. Originally written in German by Samuel Rodigast in the 17th century, the hymn was later brought into the English-speaking world by the influential translator Catherine Winkworth. Her translation preserved the dignity and rich theology of the original while making it accessible to English congregations.

The hymn expresses the heart of a believer who rests confidently in God’s providence, even in times of hardship, suffering, or uncertainty. The repeated phrase, “Whate’er my God ordains is right,” affirms the unwavering belief that God's choices, even when painful, are guided by love and wisdom. It does not sugarcoat life’s trials, but instead teaches the Christian to lean into God's will with quiet endurance and trust.

Winkworth’s translation came during a time of renewed interest in ancient German hymnody. She was instrumental in making German Lutheran hymns available to the broader English-speaking world, and her work shaped much of modern hymnody. Her version of Rodigast’s text retains the deep emotional and theological resonance of the original, particularly the themes of divine sovereignty, comfort in affliction, and patient hope.

Each stanza of the hymn builds upon the last, moving from acceptance of God's will to confident hope in His goodness. It encourages the Christian to see suffering not as a sign of divine displeasure but as part of a greater plan beyond human understanding. The hymn concludes with a peaceful assurance that God's purposes, though mysterious, are always right and will lead the soul safely home.

Set to several tunes over time, the most well-known in modern hymnals is the tune Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, which matches the solemn and meditative tone of the lyrics. The melody, often stately and reverent, reinforces the theme of peace amid adversity.

“Whate’er My God Ordains Is Right” is frequently used during funerals, times of suffering, or seasons of uncertainty. It has comforted generations of Christians with the reminder that God’s rule is not arbitrary or cold, but full of grace and mercy. In every trial, this hymn lifts the eyes from earthly circumstances to the unshakable character of God.

Through her translation, Catherine Winkworth provided a spiritual lifeline for countless English-speaking believers, preserving the theology of trust in God's providence for modern worship. This hymn remains a treasured piece of both Lutheran and evangelical hymnody, embodying the faithful heart that submits to God’s will in all things.