God works in mysterious ways

== English == === Etymology === Possibly originating from a poem by William Cowper (floruit 1731–1800), whose first stanza reads: God moves in a mysterious way / His wonders to perform; / He plants His footsteps in the sea / And rides upon the storm. Despite the late attestation, the general sentiment of the phrase does hold apparent wide-ranging and prehistoric theological currency. === Pronunciation === === Proverb === God works in mysterious ways Expressing confidence that a conundrum has a solution despite it not being apparent. Commenting on a situation that has led to some unexpected outcome in a surprising or convoluted way. Commenting that a seemingly unfortunate or unfavourable situation or change may be beneficial later or in the long run. Person A: It seems that I'm about to be fired from my job. Person B: Well, God works in mysterious ways — maybe it'll be the kick you need to apply to university... ==== Usage notes ==== As a figure of speech, it sometimes does not necessarily denote the religious views of the speaker. Rarely used sarcastically. ==== Synonyms ==== (a situation may be beneficial later): every cloud has a silver lining, blessing in disguise ==== Translations ====