When in the Hour of Utmost Need

When in the hour of utmost need
We know not where to look for aid,
When days and nights of anxious thought
Nor help nor counsel yet have brought.

Then this our comfort is alone,
That we may meet before Thy throne,
And cry, O faithful God, to Thee
For rescue from our misery.

That so with all our hearts we may
Once more our glad thanksgivings pay,
And walk obedient to Thy Word,
And now and ever praise the Lord.

Author: Paul Eber

Year: 1566

Original German title is "Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein". This is a well-known Reformation-era German hymn by Paul Eber (1521–1569), often set to music by composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach. English translations vary; the provided text closely matches Catherine Winkworth's version.