SPIRITUAL SONGS (continued 2)

Yet wilt thou walk by thine own light Thy life long, only heeding, Believing nothing but thy sight, Go whither it is leading. In all that thou dost undertake, Thy heart thy counsellor dost make, Unless by it selected, Is ev'ry plan rejected.

Behold! how oft and openly God's providence undoeth The plans thy hand so ardently And hopefully pursueth. But it doth happen frequently, That e'en the very things we see The wisest men could never Predict, or think of ever.

How oft thy stiff-neck'd self-will hath To bitter need reduc'd thee! When heart and mind deluded, death To take for life, seduc'd thee! And had the Lord thy work and deed Along the path allow'd proceed That thou thyself had'st taken, Lost wert thou and forsaken.

He who to us love endless feels, When self-involv'd, then frees us, Ev'n self-inflicted wounds He heals, Guides when astray He sees us. Paternal kindness, tender love, To these His heart doth ever move, This love poor sinners beareth, For whom as sons He careth.

Ah! silence doth He often keep, But still the while He blesses, E'en though we tears of anguish weep, Though grief the heart depresses, [153] Although our eager eyes we strain, And seek for light, but seek in vain, And seek deliv'rance ever From woe, but find it never.

But God our Lord still onward straight His path pursueth ever, And brings us to heav'n's peaceful gate, Where storms assail us never. What dark was and mysterious here In all God's ways, shall be then clear, His wisdom we'll discover When our life-work is over.

Then peace, be still, my troubled breast! And let no grief distress thee, God ever plans for thee the best, His heart is set to bless thee. Thy cause the Saviour ne'er can leave, In this assuredly believe, Tow'rd us He ever yearneth, His ardent love aye burneth.

With grace and truth His loving heart For evermore is glowing, And keenly feeleth He the smart, When from our eyes are flowing Hot tears, caus'd by vain sorrow's load, As if in wrath and hate our God Could ever helpless leave us, Would never comfort give us!

The evil thought, ah! put away, No more may it deceive thee, Although what happ'neth, seldom may Increase of pleasure give thee. But that will happen certainly Which God thy Father doth decree; From what He wills to send thee, No mortal can defend thee.

Then to thy Father's arms of love In confidence betake thee, Pray on till His compassion move, His special care He make thee! [155] Then by His Spirit will He guide, Through unknown paths still at thy side, From all thy woe and striving At last deliv'rance giving.

O my soul, why dost thou grieve, Why dost mourn so bitterly, That more freely God doth give Gifts to others than to thee? In thy God delight thy heart, He's the good enduring part.

Of the human race have none In this world to be a right, All, yea each created one, But a guest is for a night. God in His house Lord is still, Gifts divideth as He will.

Know, thou art not therefore here, That thou should'st possess the earth; Look thou up to heav'n so clear, There's thy gold of priceless worth, There is honour, there is joy, Without envy or alloy!

Great the folly his who grieves For a little vanity, When God to him freely gives Treasures of eternity. Is the handredweight thy gain? Thou canst then despise the grain.

All thy fair possessions see, That are valued by thy heart, None of them can go with thee When from earth thou must depart. Thou must leave them here below, When death's door thou passest through.

The soul's nourishment, God's grace, And the Saviour's precious blood, Ne'er through time in worth decrease, But remain for ever good. [157] Earthly goods must pass away, Soul-goods never can decay.

Still art thou so blind, alas! Thinking—but all erringly, Eyes hast thou, but in the glass Of the word thou dost not see. Child of man! fix there thine eyes, For it is a peerless prize.

Count thy fingers every one, And thine other members o'er, They are precious, they're thine own, Lov'd by thee than treasure more, Gold could never from thee buy E'en the least, though men should try.

Search and ask thine inmost heart, 'Twill instruct thee what of good Daily falleth to thy part, By God's bounteous hand bestow'd; Than the sand upon the shore More, and yet desir'st thou more!

Did thy Heav'nly Father see That it would be for thy good, What desires so eagerly Thy misguided flesh and blood, He would ne'er thee joyless leave, But would of His bounty give.

God to thee is full of love, Faithful and sincere is He, When thou wishest aught, He'd prove Of what kind thy wish may be: If 'tis good, He will bestow, If 'tis ill, He'll answer—no.

Meanwhile doth His Spirit give Manna to thy fainting heart, Food by which the angels live, Grace to deck thee doth impart, For His portion chooseth thee, Thou shalt share salvation free.

Look then to thy God above, Sad and troubled countenance! Cease to sigh, faith's virtue prove, By thy clear and joyous glance! [159] While thy sky is overcast By affliction, hold it fast!

And as Heav'n's adopted son, Thy rebellious will restrain; Touch thy harp, let 'fore God's throne Grateful songs resound again. More at all times doth God give Than thou'rt worthy to receive.

Live thou ever in God's fear, As thou journeyest to heav'n, Take whate'er befalls thee here As a gift in wisdom giv'n. Are they evil days, thou'lt see God and Heav'n endure for thee.

Ah! lovely innocence, how evil art thou deem'd, How lightly oft thy work by all the world's esteem'd! Thou servest God, thy Lord, and to His word thou cleavest; For this, from men thou nought but scorn and hate receivest.

Right on thy road thou go'st, flee'st from the crooked way; Another steppeth in and bears the prize away, Increaseth his small store, his chests and barns he filleth; Thou'rt poor with all thy house, scarce earn'st what hunger stilleth.

The wicked one thou chid'st, who walks not righteously, Another practiseth a sweet hypocrisy [161] That love and praise secures, and him on high upraises, While in the lurch the world thee leaves, and much abases.

Thou say'st that virtue is the Christian's fairest crown, But reputation doth the world lay stress upon; He who will this secure, it saith, must ever labour To suit the times, and live and act just like his neighbour.

Thou boast'st thyself in God, thy tongue doth aye commend The blessing God doth as His children's portion send: “If this be then the case,” the world says, “come and show it, The happy fortune thou hast had, we'd see and know it.”

Stand firm, thou pious heart, stand firm, thy faith retain! 'Mid disappointment sore thy God will true remain, Commit thy ways to Him, let Him protect and guide thee, Thou'lt triumph at the last o'er evils that betide thee.

Dost fail to please thy kind?—It is a sad disgrace! Enough, if on thee smile thy heav'nly Father's face. The worst that man can do is to betray and leave thee; But God is righteous, and His judgment can't deceive thee.

Doth He say, “Thou art Mine, thy way doth please Me well?” Then be thy heart consol'd, let joy thy bosom swell, Cast to the wind the lies by wicked men indited, Be still, and thou shalt see, by God shall all be righted.

Pride, arrogance, and pomp are ne'er enduring found, Like brightest glass they fall, and break upon the ground; So when the luck of men has mounted up to heaven, It soon comes crashing down, and on the earth lies riven.

And all ill-gotten wealth, when right our estimate, Is on the heart and mind a dead oppressive weight [163] That burdens evermore, with pain the conscience wringeth, Its quiet rest disturbs, and into trouble bringeth.

And what have many more than of the poor the sweat? What do they eat and drink, and what gain do they get? They rob the widows' store, spite of their tears them wronging, Who like a thirsty land for sympathy are longing.

Is this felicity? is this magnificence? Oh! what a sentence dire will God the Judge pronounce Upon the day of doom, when from His throne so loudly It sounds, how shall they seem who strut and boast so proudly!

But thou who now thy God dost honour with whole heart, And never from His ways dost let thy feet depart, Shalt in the goodly throng, whom God with manna feedeth, With praise and honour clad, walk with Him where he leadeth.

In patience, then, possess thy soul a little while, Do right, and persevere and live all free from guile, Act that the fairest prize in yonder life be given Thee, from His gracious hand who rules in earth and heaven.

Whate'er on earth betide, from care remain all free, 'Twill fall out for thy good, as God the best may see; Rest thou assur'd, He will no wish of thine deny thee, With joy fulfil thy will, with every good supply thee.

I have deserv'd it, cease t' oppose The Lord's will, shall I never? Thou bitter cup, thou heavy cross, Come hither to me ever! From pain all free May never be He 'gainst the Lord who fighteth, As I each day, Who trod the way Wherein the world delighteth.

I'll bear the chastisement of God, A patient soul possessing, For born in sin, sin's path I trod, Aye ventur'd on transgressing, That pleasures vain I might attain, In wantonness time wasting, The gracious word Of God the Lord, As I ought, never tasting.

The road of God's commandments good I often have forsaken, And on the way that leads from God Am therefore overtaken By grief and smart, That pierce my heart; God's hand thus am I feeling, Who 'fore His throne To each his own Awards, in justice dealing.

For just and true is God above, We fail His goodness telling, A mother's truth, a father's love Alike in him are dwelling. God's wrath, I ween, As oft hath been Ours, is not unrelenting. Men steel their heart, Refuse t' impart Grace e'en to the repenting.

In sooth 'tis not the mind of God, His anger ever endeth, Return we, He removes the rod, And to the weary sendeth A sweet release, To mark doth cease, And visit our transgressing; His wrath He turns, And tow'rd us yearns, Gives after cursing blessing.

And so the Lord will deal with me, And every one behold it, And vindicate the right will He, My cause, He will uphold it. Thy face so bright, Lord! to the light, From deepest pit will raise me, That ever I May heartily Thy truth exalt, and praise Thee.

Rejoice not o'er me, then, my foes, I lie not here for ever, My God will come ere ye suppose, And speedily deliver. His holy hand Will make me stand, Firm and secure for ever; Good times to me And joy will He Give after stormy weather.

I am in need, yet scarce can speak Of real need and sorrow; When God my Light is, day must break And bring a glorious morrow, E'en in the night, While yet the might Of darkness much increaseth, And when this Light Dawns on my sight, Whate'er oppresses ceaseth.

The time will come, e'en now 'tis near, When I shall sing salvation, When he who lov'd to mock and jeer At me in tribulation, And bid me tell Where God doth dwell, Shall from God's face be driven With head cast down; To me a crown Of honour shall be given!

Ah! faithful God, compass'nate heart, Whose goodness never endeth, I know this bitter cross and smart Thy hand it is that sendeth! Yea, Lord, I know this burden great Thou sendest not in wrath and hate, But 'tis in love appointed.

That ever is Thy way all-wise, Thy child in woe must languish, Thou whom Thou lovest, dost chastise, 'Fore joy Thou sendest anguish, Sink'st us to hell, in woe we lie, And raisest us again on high, Thus with us fares it always.

Thou ever leadest wondrously Thy children dear who please Thee! Would I have life? Then first must I E'en down to death abase me. In honour who'd be raised on high, He self-abas'd on earth must lie As worthless dust and ashes.

On earth, Lord, Thy belovèd Son Such sorrow had to try Him; Ere He could reach His glorious throne Ill men must crucify Him. He pass'd through trouble, need, and woe, Nor shrunk He from death's cruel blow, To reach the joys of heaven.

Did then Thy good and holy Son Himself for us deliver, And I enslavèd, sinful one, Shall I resist Thee ever? Of patience aye the glass is He, And who His face desires to see Must in His footsteps follow.

How is it reason finds it hard, The truth so oft rejecteth, That Thou with favour dost regard E'en while Thy hand afflicteth? How long doth oft the cross remain, How hardly can we love and pain Then reconcile together.

God of the Church! when fails my pow'r, Strength graciously then give me; And grant that nought in trial's hour Of faith may e'er deprive me. Uphold me by Thy might, O Lord, Establish me then in Thy word, From murmuring deliver!

When I am weak, be Thou my stay, In faithfulness be near me, That I continually may pray, And call on Thee to hear me. While yet a heart hopes and believes, And still in pray'r unceasing lives, Bold is it, and unvanquish'd.

In measure, Lord, apply the rod, Lest I sink altogether; Thou know'st how I can bear the load, How life's imperill'd ever, For neither steel nor stone am I, But sooner pass away and die, E'en than a fleeting vapour.

Ah! Jesus, who did'st stoop so low, Thy blood shed, life that giveth, The bitter cross full well dost know, And how the spirit grieveth When cross and heavy woe combine, So wilt Thou hear each cry of mine, When bitterly complaining.

I know Thou feelest sympathy When want and woe distress me, That Thou with help wilt visit me, And graciously wilt bless me. Ah! strengthen Thou my feeble hand, And lead my feet where I may stand In safety—Come and save me!

Speak courage to my fainting heart, With comfort, Lord, support me. Of weary souls the Rest Thou art, My Tow'r, where none can hurt me! My Rock, where from the sun I hide, My Tent, where safely I abide When storms without are raging!

And as in love, while here I dwell, Thou suff'ring hast decreed me, Thy grace vouchsafe Thy child, Lord, still, In Thy green pastures lead me; That I in faith may patience gain, Through patience rich reward attain, When I've endur'd the trial.

Oh! Holy Ghost, of joy the Oil, Whom God from Heaven giveth, Refresh me, pour into my soul What heart and flesh reviveth. Of glory, Thou the Spirit art, Know'st what in heav'n shall be my part Of grace, joy, consolation!

How fair 'twill be, ah! let me gaze Upon the life so glorious, That Thou wilt give to those who pass Through trials sore, victorious. The earth with all its treasures fair Can never with this life compare, They pale and fade before it.

Thou'lt deal with me so graciously, I'll endless joy be tasting, For trials known to Thee and me Have glory everlasting. Thou'lt wipe the tear-drop from mine eyes, To exultation turn my sighs, Lord! I believe it. Amen!

Father of mercies! God most high, Deign graciously to hear me, Thou say'st, “Knock at my door and cry, In time of need draw near me. As urgently Thou long'st, to thee I'll come to help and raise thee, That with thy mouth, In very truth, Thou joyfully may'st praise me.”

Commit to God, both morn and night, Thy ways, and doings ever; He knoweth how to guide thee right, And always will deliver. To Him reveal Whate'er dost feel Thy heart to sorrow moveth; He is Thy Lord, Knows how to guard And shield thee whom He loveth.

For His belovèd child will care The faithful loving Father; Who righteous and believing are, He to His rest will gather. Then, people dear, Hope ever here On Him who aye relieves you; His throne before Your hearts outpour, Tell Him whatever grieves you!

Ah! God our Shield! Thy word how sweet It sounds to Thine afflicted: “I'll come to thee with succour meet, When thy heart is dejected. He loveth me, So lov'd shall be, Secure for aye I'll make him, From care all free Shall sit by me, I'll to my bosom take him.”

The Lord to them is ever nigh Who trustfully draw near Him, He's at their side whene'er they cry, Helps them o'ercome, who fear Him. In misery Who low do lie, He raiseth and relieveth, And joy imparts To fainting hearts, Them pow'r and might he giveth.

“In truth, who my great name doth fear,” Saith Christ, “and firm believeth, God doth regard his pray'r sincere, His heart's wish freely giveth.” Then one and all Draw near and call, Who asketh, he obtaineth; Who seeketh there, The fruit so fair With great advantage gaineth.

Hear what yon unjust judge doth say: “This widow's supplication I must regard, lest day by day Her coming cause vexation.” His people's cry Shall God deny, Who day and night are praying? It cannot be, He'll set them free From woe, not long delaying.

For when the just shed tears through care, God soon with joy relieveth, To those who broken-hearted are, Again He laughter giveth. He'll suffer woe Who will below 'Mid men be godly living; But at his side Will God abide, Him grace sufficient giving.

“A moment I've forsaken thee, And left thee in temptation; With mercy great, as thou shalt see, And boundless consolation, I'll give the crown, And to the throne Of glory shall I raise thee, To joy convert Thy grief and hurt, Thou evermore shalt praise me.”

Ah! gracious God, ah! Father's heart! For years my consolation! Why dost Thou let me feel such smart, Pass through such tribulation? My sad heart aches, My eye awakes, And bitter tears sheds ever, My face once bright Doth lose its light, From sighing ceasing never.

How long, O blessèd Lord! wilt Thou, Unmindful of me, leave me? How long shall I in grief lie low, And inward sorrow grieve me? How long wilt chide, And Thy face hide, In darkness let me languish? Say, when care's load Shall cease, my God! To wring my heart with anguish?

Wilt Thou eternally repel, And show Thy goodness never? And shall Thy word and promise fail, Be put to shame for ever? Doth wrath so burn, That Thou'lt ne'er turn To me, and stand beside me? Yet, Lord, I will Cleave to Thee still, Thy hand in all can guide me.

My heart amid earth's misery For Thee, O Lord! is aching; My God! I wait and hope in Thee, Let not shame me o'ertaking; Thy friend in woe Plunge, or the foe Give cause for jubilation; But, Lord, may I Rejoice, rais'd high, In glorious exaltation.

Ah! Lord, Thou true and faithful art, Thy heart can ne'er disown me; Nerve me in fight to bear my part, With victory then crown me! Lay Thou on me The load, by Thee Appointed, that I bear it. When Thou the rod Dost use, my God! In measure may I share it!

Thy strength, O Lord! is infinite, Thy hand hath all created, Could all again with ruin smite, Its pow'r is unabated. We sound Thy name With high acclaim, As Lord of Hosts we own Thee! In counsel right No skill nor might Can foil, nor e'er dethrone Thee.

Thou who dost Israel console, Thou, Saviour, in affliction! Ah! why permittest Thou my soul To sink in sore dejection? Thou dost not rest, Thou'rt as a guest, Who'rt in the land a stranger! A hero Thou Whose courage low Sinks 'fore disgrace or danger?

Nay, Lord, not such a one art Thou! My inmost heart believeth; Thou standest firm, 'mid us shines now The light that Thy word giveth. Here restest Thou, Lord, with us now; Who call upon Thee ever, At fitting hour Wilt by Thy pow'r From ev'ry woe deliver.

O Lord! my lengthen'd tale is o'er, Then hear Thou my petition, Help me, who often at Thy door Have knock'd, and sought admission. Help, Helper, me! I'll joyfully Thankoff'rings lay before Thee; And when life's o'er Shall evermore In heav'n above adore Thee.

'Tis patience must support you When sorrow, grief, or smart, Or whate'er else may hurt you, Doth rend your aching heart. Belov'd and chosen seed! If not a death will kill you, Yet once again I tell you, 'Tis patience that you need.

The cup of patience drinketh With nausea flesh and blood, Back from the cross it shrinketh; When threaten'd with the rod, It shuddereth with fear. 'Tis bold when nought assaileth, Heart shrinks, and courage faileth, When storms and rain are here.

Why patience causeth sadness, Is that the carnal mind Unclouded joy and gladness In God aye hop'd to find, [185] Though He hath made it clear, He chastens whom He loveth, And whom He much approveth, He much afflicteth here.

God giveth patience ever, The Spirit in the breast Begetteth it whenever Within us He doth rest; The worthy, noble Guest Preserves us from despairing, And nerves for burden-bearing The heart when sore distress'd.

From faith all patience springeth, On God's own word depends, To this she firmly clingeth, Herself with this defends. 'Tis her high tow'r and wall, Where she securely hideth, Where God for her provideth, Here fears she ne'er a fall.

And patience trust reposeth On Jesu's death and pain; When Satan her opposeth, Here takes she heart again, And saith, “Thou Prince of hell! Thou never shalt devour me, Too high I'm lifted o'er thee, In Jesus do I dwell.”

Contented patience stayeth On God's decree all-wise; Although His grace delayeth, Scarce feels fatigue arise; With trust she bears her load, And joyfully endureth, This thought her heart assureth, It is the hand of God.

Long, long, can patience waiting The weary time beguile, On God's word meditating Get saving good the while. [187] With earnest fervent pray'r, Each morn and eve she guardeth Herself from ill, and wardeth Off Satan's every snare.

To God's will patience boweth, Doth His command fulfil, 'Mid scorn of foes she knoweth 'Tis wisest to be still. Who will, let him despise, Unhurt by the dishonour And shame thus put upon her, Her heart doth o'er it rise.

To honour patience serveth Her God, and never more From love and fealty swerveth; Although He smiteth sore, Yet doth she ever praise His holy hand, and telleth That God on high who dwelleth, Doth well in all his ways.

And patience life sustaineth, Adds to our tale of years; She drives away what paineth The heart, and stills its fears. It is a beauteous light That giveth him who heedeth, And whom God's guidance leadeth, A face with joy all bright.

Great joy from patience springeth, The head a noble crown, Gems for the neck she bringeth From throne of Heaven down. She wipes from weeping eyes The tears of grief and anguish; Whose souls with longing languish, With ample good supplies.

My soul for patience sigheth, My heart longs eagerly, How urgently it crieth And oft is known to Thee, [189] Of grace who hast full store! Lord, hear my supplication, Give patient resignation; I ask for nothing more.

For patience the petition Shall often up to Thee, From out my low condition, Ascend, O Lord, from me. And in my dying hour, Thy mercy still extending, Oh! grant a patient ending, Then need I nothing more.

What pleaseth God, my faithful child, Receive with joy; although the wild And wintry wind thy heart appal, Have faith, thee only can befal What pleaseth God!

The will of God is aye the best, In it we can so calmly rest; Thyself to it anew resign, And only seek to have as thine What pleaseth God!

God's counsel is the only wise; Soon comes to nought what men devise; Their projects fall, fall out of use, Oft mischief work, not oft produce What pleaseth God!

God's mood is the most gracious mood, To all intending, doing good; He blesses, though hard words may speak The wicked world, and never seek What pleaseth God!

The truest heart is God's own heart, Who bids our misery depart; Who screens and shelters, day and night, The man who makes his chief delight What pleaseth God!

Ah! could I sing, as sing I would, From out my heart, and ever should, I'd ope my mouth—in Him rejoice, This moment praise with heart and voice What pleaseth God!

His counsel wise would I make known, The works of wonder He hath done; His saving grace, eternal pow'r, That work producing every hour What pleaseth God.

He rules above and rules below; On Him hangs all our weal and woe; He bears the world in His high hand, For us brings forth the sea and land What pleaseth God!

His hands the elements restrain; His hands our mortal life sustain— Give summer, winter, day, and night, That evermore to do delight What pleaseth God!

His host, the stars, the moon, and sun, Their wonted courses ever run; Corn, oil, and must, bread, wine, and beer, The fruitful earth brings forth each year, Which pleaseth God!

His understanding is all wise, He knows—they are before his eyes, Who evil think and evil do, As well as who the good pursue That pleaseth God!

His little flock to Him is dear; When sinning they forsake His fear, He chastens with His Father's rod, Till they return and do the good That pleaseth God!

What cheers and strengtheneth our heart He knows, and ever doth impart Whatever good each one requires, Who seeks for good and aye desires What pleaseth God!

Is't so? then let the world retain What pleaseth her, and she deems gain; But thou in God delighted be, My heart! approve whate'er you see That pleaseth God!

Let others then in haughty mood Rejoice in stores of earthly good; But thou the Cross with patience bear, Contented if thou hast the share That pleaseth God!

Dost live in sorrow, sunk in grief, Hast much affliction—no relief? Still murmur not, for thou dost bear In this thy bitter life of care What pleaseth God!

In suff'rings art thou doom'd to live? Then to thy great Protector cleave; The world and all the creatures too Are under God, can only do What pleaseth God!

Doth ev'ry one despise Thy name? Do foes Thee scorn and treat with shame? Be not cast down, for Christ will raise Thy head, who seeth in thy ways What pleaseth God!

Faith fastens on the Saviour's love Works patience, hope that looks above; Lock both within thy secret heart, Thou'lt have as thine eternal part What pleaseth God!

Thy part is in the Heav'nly throne, There is thy sceptre, kingdom, crown; There shalt thou taste, and hear, and see, There shall for ever happen thee What pleaseth God!

Look up to thy God again, Soul, sunk in affliction! Shall He be reproach'd by men Through thy sore dejection? Satan's wiles dost thou not see? By severe temptation, Gladly would he keep from thee Jesu's consolation.

Shake thy head in scorn, and “flee,” Bid the old deceiver— “Wilt renew thy thrusts at me, Me to fear deliver? Serpent! bruis'd thy head I see; Through His pain hath freed me From thy grasp, my Lord, and He To His joy will lead me.

“Dost thou charge my sin to me? When did God command me Judgment to require from thee? Tell me, I demand thee! [196] Who did pow'r on thee bestow Sentence to deliver? Who thyself art sunk so low In hell's flames for ever.”

What I have not done aright Me with sorrow filleth, But of Jesu's blood the sight All mine anguish stilleth. He the ransom price hath paid, From the cross relieves me, When before God's throne 'tis laid, Inward joy He gives me.

In Christ's innocence I boast, His right is my glory, Mine His merit, there I trust As in stronghold hoary, That the rage of every foe Evermore resisteth, Though the might of hell below It to storm assisteth.

Rage then, devil, and thou, death! Ye can never hurt me; In the trials of my path Doth God's grace support me. God His only Son to me, Mov'd by love, hath given, That to endless misery I may not be driven.

Cry then, foolish world! amain, That God lov'd me never, That my cherish'd hope is vain, Has deceiv'd me ever. Had God been averse to me, Would He have supported All the gifts so rich and free He to me imparted?

What is there in sky or sea, What the wide earth over, What that works no good for me, Canst thou then discover? [198] Why do star so beauteously Shine on us from Heaven? Why are, but for good to me, Air and water given?

Why do clouds their streams outpour? Why do dews earth cover? Why with verdure's cover'd o'er, Why flow blessings over Hill and valley, field and wood? Truly for my pleasure, That I dwell secure, and food Have in plenteous measure.

My soul on God's word most dear Feeds and liveth ever, That all Christians love to hear Daily, tiring never. Soon and late my heart in me God opes for receiving Of the Spirit's grace that He Is so freely giving.

Why through holy men of old Have God's words been given? That we by their light might hold On our way to heaven, My heart's darkness to dispel, From doubt to deliver, That the conscience sure and well, Be establish'd ever.

Now upon this holy ground Build I most securely, See how hell's malicious hound, Spends 'gainst me his fury. He can never overthrow What God hath upraisèd, But what Satan's hand doth do That shall be abasèd.

I am God's, and mine is God, Who from Him can part me? Tho' the cross with heavy load Press on me and smart me. [200] Let it press—the hand of love Hath the cross laid on me, He the burden will remove, When the good is done me.

Children whom aright to guide Parents would endeavour, Must the father often chide, Or they'd prosper never. If I'm then a child of grace, Should I shun God ever, When He from sin's devious ways, Seeks me to deliver?

Gracious are the thoughts of God, In the pain He's sending, Who here weeps beneath the rod, Reaps not woe unending, But eternal joy shall taste In Christ's garden dwelling, That he shall be there at last, Now assurance feeling.

Often God's own children here Sow in tears and sadness, But at length the long'd-for year Comes of joy and gladness; For the reaping time appears, All their labours after, When are turn'd their grief and tears Into joy and laughter.

Christian heart! courageously All the griefs that pain thee Cast behind thee joyfully, More and more sustain thee Let sweet consolation's light; Praise and honour give you To the God of love and might, He'll help and relieve you.

Be thou contented! aye relying On thy God, who life is giving, For He hath joys soul satisfying, Wanting Him—in vain thy striving. Thy Spring is He, Thy Sun that ever Rejoiceth thee, And setteth never. Be thou contented!

He lightens, comforts, and supports thee, True in heart, by guile unstainèd; When He is near nought ever hurts thee, E'en when smitten sore and painèd. Cross, need, and woe He soon averteth, O'er the last foe His pow'r asserteth. Be thou contented!

How it fareth with thee and others, Truly none from Him concealeth, He ever from on high discovers Burden'd hearts, and for them feeleth. Of weeping eyes The tears He counteth, The pile of sighs 'Fore Him high mounteth. Be thou contented!

When not another on earth liveth, To whom safe thou may'st confide thee, He'll faithful prove, who ne'er deceiveth, And to happiest end will guide thee. The secret grief Thy soul that boweth, And when relief To give, He knoweth. Be thou contented!

The sighing of thy soul He ever, And thy heart's deep plaint is hearing; What to another thou wouldst never Tell, reveal to God, ne'er fearing. [204] He is not far, But standeth near thee, Who poor men's pray'r Marks, soon will hear thee. Be thou contented!

To God cleave, He'll salvation show thee, Let not anguish then depress thee; Although devouring floods o'erflow thee, Rise above it, He will bless thee. When 'neath the load Thy back low bendeth, Thy Prince and God Soon succour sendeth. Be thou contented!

Why for thy life should care so grieve thee, How to nourish and sustain it? Thy God, who ever life doth give thee, Will provide for and maintain it. He hath a hand With gifts o'erflowing, On sea and land For aye bestowing. Be thou contented!

Who for the forest songsters careth, To their daily portion leads them, For sheep and ox enough prepareth, Slakes their thirst, with plenty feeds them; He'll care for thee, Thee, lone one! filling, So bounteously Thy hunger stilling. Be thou contented!

Say not, the means nowhere appeareth, Where I seek, my effort faileth; God this high name of honour beareth, Helper, when no help availeth! When thou and I Fail to discover Him, speedily He'll us recover. Be thou contented!

Although away thy help is staying, He will not for ever leave thee; Tho' anxious makes thee His delaying, 'Tis for thy greater good, believe me. [206] What on the way To come ne'er hasteth, Doth longer stay, And sweeter tasteth. Be thou contented!

Though 'gainst thee hosts of foes are scheming, Let not all their lies affright thee; Still let them rage against thee, deeming God will hear it and will right thee. Doth God support Thee and thine ever? The foe can hurt Or ruin never. Be thou contented!

To each his share of ill is given, Would he only see and know it; No course on earth so fair and even, That no trouble lurks below it. Who can declare, “My house was ever All free from care, And troubled never?” Be thou contented!

So must it be, in vain our grieving, All men here must suffer ever, Whate'er upon the earth is living, Evil days avoideth never. Affliction's blow Doth oft depress us, And lays us low, And death then frees us. Be thou contented!

A day will dawn of rest and blessing, When our God will come and save us From the vile body's bands depressing, And the evils that enslave us. Death soon will come, From woe deliver, And take us home Then all together. Be thou contented!

He'll bring us to the hosts in glory, To the chosen and true-hearted, Who when they clos'd this life's sad story, Hence in peace to joy departed, [208] And on the shore, The ever-vernal, Hear evermore, The voice eternal. Be thou contented!

Is God for me? t'oppose me A thousand may uprise; When I to pray'r arouse me, He'll chase mine enemies. And doth the Head befriend me, Am I belov'd by God? Let foes then rise to rend me, The wild opposing brood!

I know—from faith none moves me, I boast—nor feel I shame, That God as father loves me, In Him, a friend I claim. [209] Whene'er the tempest rageth, At my right hand is He, Its violence assuageth, And peace restores to me.

My faith securely buildeth On Jesus, and His blood; This, and this only, yieldeth The true eternal good. The life that my soul liveth, Finds nothing on the earth; What Christ the Saviour giveth Of all our love is worth.

My Jesus is my Glory, My Splendour, and clear Light, Liv'd He not in and for me, Before God's eye so bright, And 'fore His pure throne never Could I a moment stay, Must quickly flee for ever, As wax 'fore fire away.

My Jesus death subdueth, My sin remitteth quite, He washeth aad reneweth, The crimson maketh white. I joy in Him, can ever A hero's courage feel, And judgment fear dare never, As though uncleansèd still.

Nought, nought, can e'er condemn me, My courage take away; Hell's flames can ne'er o'erwhelm me, For me they're quench'd for aye. No sentence e'er can move me, No evil e'er deject, My Saviour who doth love me, Doth with His wings protect.

His Spirit in me dwelleth, And ruleth every pow'r, All pain and sorrow stilleth, Dispels all clouds that low'r. [211] What He in me implanteth, He blesseth every hour, Help to say “Father” granteth, With every ransom'd pow'r.

When heart with terror breaketh, And weak and worn I feel, Words whispers He and speaketh That are unspeakable; My mouth can frame them never, To God they are well known, Who what delights Him ever Discovers in His own.

His Spirit mine relieveth With words of comfort blest, Shows how God succour giveth To all who seek His rest; And how a new and golden Fair city rear'd hath He, Which here from sight withholden, My joyful eyes shall see.

My mansion's there so splendid, Prepar'd in yonder land; Though when my course is ended, I fall—Heav'n still doth stand. Though care here often saddens And causeth tears to flow, My Jesu's light oft gladdens And sweetens every woe.

Whoe'er to Jesus bindeth Himself, doth Satan hate, He's troubled much and findeth His burden sore and great; To suffer scarce is able, Disgrace and scorn he meets, The cross and every trouble As daily bread he eats.

My mind this clear perceiveth, Yet am I undismay'd; To Thee my heart aye cleaveth, On Thee shall cares be laid. [213] Though life and limb it cost me And everything I have, Unshaken shall I trust Thee, Thee never shall I leave.

The world may ruin shiver, Thou liv'st eternally, Nor sword nor flame shall ever Divide 'twixt Thee and me. No thirst nor gnawing hunger, No pain nor poverty, Nor mighty prince's anger Shall ever hinder me.

No angel, nought that gladdens, No throne nor majesty, No love nor aught that saddens, No grief nor misery, Nor aught that man discovers, Be it small or great, From Thee, my heav'nly Lover's Embrace can separate.

My heart with joy is springing, And sad I cannot be, 'Tis full of joy and singing, The sunshine doth it see. The Sun that looks with pleasure On me is Christ my King; The glory beyond measure That waits me, makes me sing.

Why should sorrow ever grieve me? Christ is near, What can here E'er of Him deprive me? Who can rob me of my heaven That God's Son, As mine own, To my faith hath given?

Naked was I and unswathèd When on earth At my birth My first breath I breathèd. Naked hence shall I betake me, When I go From earth's woe, And my breath forsake me.

Nought—not e'en the life I'm living, Is mine own, God alone All to me is giving. Must I then His own restore Him? Though bereft Of each gift Still shall I adore Him.

Though a heavy cross I'm bearing, And my heart Feels the smart, Shall I be despairing? [216] God can help me, who doth send it, He doth know All my woe And how best to end it.

God oft gives me days of gladness, Shall I grieve If He give Seasons too of sadness? God is good, and tempers ever Every hurt, Me desert Wholly can He never,

Though united world and devil, All their pow'r Can no more Do than mock and cavil. Let derision now employ them, Christ e'en here Will appear And 'fore all destroy them.

True believers shrinking never, Where they dwell Should reveal Their true colours ever. When approaching death would scare them, Still should they Patient stay And with courage bear them.

Death can never kill us even, But relief From all grief To us then is given. It doth close life's mournful story, Make a way That we may Pass to heav'nly glory.

There I'll reap enduring pleasure, After woe Here below Suffer'd in large measure. [218] Lasting good we find here never, All the earth Deemeth worth Vanisheth for ever.

What is all this life possesseth? But a hand Fall of sand That the heart distresseth. Noble gifts that pall me never, Christ so free There gives me To enjoy for ever.

Shepherd! Lord! joy's fountain ever, Thou art mine, I am Thine, No one can us sever. I am Thine, because Thou gavest Life and blood For my good, By Thy death me savest.

Thou'rt mine, for I love and own Thee, Ne'er shall I, Light of joy, From my heart dethrone Thee. Let me, let me soon behold Thee Face to face, Thy embrace May it soon enfold me!

I into God's own heart and mind My heart and mind deliver, What evil seems, a gain I find, E'en death is life for ever. I am His son, Who spread the throne Of heaven high above me. Tho' I bend low Beneath His blow, Yet still His heart doth love me.

He ne'er can prove untrue to me, My Father aye must love me, And tho' He cast me in the sea, He only thus would prove me; In what He good Doth count, He would My heart establish ever. And if I stand, His mighty hand Will raise me, and deliver.

Vain had my own pow'r ever been, To have adorn'd or made me; In soul and body God is seen, He form'd and He array'd me, Plac'd mind and wit On the soul's seat, And flesh and bones did give me. Who thus so free Supplieth me Can ne'er mean to deceive me.

Say, where a place to lay my head, On earth had I attainèd? Long since had I been cold and dead Had God not me sustainèd With His strong arm, That ever warm, And glad and healthy maketh. Whom He gives joy May praise employ, What He leaves, falls and breaketh.

Wisdom and understanding true In Him are ever dwelling; Time, place, to leave undone or do, He knoweth, never failing. He ever knows When joys, when woes, Are best for those He loveth. What He doth here— Tho' it appear Ill—to be good aye proveth.

Thou think'st indeed, if thou hast not What flesh and blood is yearning To have, that trial mars thy lot, Thy light to darkness turning. Of toil and care Thou hast large share, Ere thou thy wish attainest, And dost not see Whatever thee Befals, thereby thou gainest.

In truth, He who created thee, His glory in thee showing, Hath long ago in His decree Determin'd—all foreknowing— What good for thee And thine will be, In faithfulness he'll give it. Curb thou thy will, Wait! be thou still, To His good pleasure leave it.

Whate'er to send, seems good to God, 'Twill be at last refreshing, Altho' thou call'st it cross and load 'Tis fraught with richest blessing. Wait patiently, His grace to thee He'll speedily discover. All grief and fear Shall disappear Like mist the hills spread over.

The field, unless the storm rage high, Its ripe fruits yieldeth never, So men were ruin'd utterly If all were prosp'rous ever. Though health it gives, And thus relieves, The bitter aloe paineth; So must the heart With anguish smart, Ere it to health attaineth.

My God! my God! into Thy hand I joyfully now yield me, Keep me, a stranger in the land, E'en to the end, Lord! shield me. Deal with me now As well dost know, That I may profit by it; Then more and more Thy glorious pow'r, Lord! show, and magnify it.

Wilt cause Thy sun on me to shine, With pleasure, Lord, I'll share it; Should trial or mischance be mine, Then patiently I'll bear it. Of life the door Should it before Me open here stand ever, Where Thou lead'st me, I'll joyfully Go with Thee, shrinking never.

Should I along the path of death, Through the dark vale be treading, 'Tis well, 'tis the appointed path, E'en there Thine eyes are leading. My Shepherd! Thou Art all below To such an issue bringing, That I to Thee, Eternally, Shall songs of praise be singing.

Commit whatever grieves thee At heart, and all thy ways, To Him who never leaves thee, On whom creation stays. Who freest courses maketh For clouds, and air, and wind, And care who ever taketh A path for thee to find.

The Lord thou must repose on If thou wouldst prosper sure, His work must ever gaze on If thine is to endure. By anxious care and grieving, By self-consuming pain, God is not mov'd to giving; By pray'r must thou obtain.

Thy grace that ever floweth, O Father! what is good, Or evil, ever knoweth, To mortal flesh and blood. What to Thine eye all-seeing, And to Thy counsel wise Seems good, doth into being, O mighty Prince, arise!

For means it fails Thee never, Thou always find'st a way, Thy doing's blessing ever, Thy path like brightest day. [227] Thy work can no one hinder, Thy labour cannot rest, If Thou design'st Thy tender Children should be bless'd.

Though all the powers of evil Should rise up to resist, Without a doubt or cavil God never will desist; His undertakings ever At length He carries through; What He designs He never Can fail at all to do.

Hope on, thou heart, grief-riven, Hope, and courageous be, Where anguish thee hath driven, Thou shalt deliv'rance see. God, from thy pit of sadness Shall raise thee graciously; Wait, and the sun of gladness Thine eyes shall early see.

Up! up! to pain and anguish A long good night now say; Drive all that makes thee languish In grief and woe away. Thine 'tis not to endeavour The ruler's part to play, God sits as ruler ever, Guides all things well each day.

Let Him alone—and tarry He is a Prince all wise, He shall Himself so carry, 'Twill strange seem in thine eyes, When He as Him beseemeth, In wonderful decree, Shall as Himself good deemeth, O'errule what grieveth thee.

He may awhile still staying His comforts keep from thee, And on His part delaying, Seem to have utterly [229] Forgotten and forsaken And put thee out of mind, Though thou'rt by grief o'ertaken, No time for thee to find.

But if thou never shrinkest, And true dost still remain, He'll come when least thou thinkest, And set thee free again, Thee from the load deliver, That burdeneth thy heart, That thou hast carried never For any evil part.

Hail! child of faith, who gainest The victory alway, Who honour's crown obtainest, That never fades away. God in thy hand will give thee, One day, the glorious palm; Who ne'er in grief did leave thee, To Him thou'lt sing thy psalm.

O Lord no longer lengthen Our time of misery, Our hands and feet now strengthen, And until death may we By Thee be watched and car'd for, In faithfulness and love, So come we where prepar'd for Us is our bless'd abode.

Thou must not altogether be O'ercome by sad vexation, God soon will cause to shine on thee The light of consolation. In patience wait, and be thou still, And let the Lord do what He will, He never can do evil.

Is this the first time we have known And tasted sore affliction? What have we had but grief alone On earth, and sore dejection? We've had an ample share of grief, Yet God hath sometimes sent relief, A respite brief of gladness.

Not so doth God our Father mean, When His afflictions grieve us, That no more shall His face be seen That He'll for ever leave us; His purposes quite other are, That those who from Him wander far By trial be recover'd.

It is our nature's evil mood That when in joys we're living, We then forsake our highest good, Ourselves to license giving. We earthly are, and deem more worth The things and pleasures of the earth, Than all that dwells in heaven.

God therefore all our joys doth blight, Lets trials overtake us, Takes that wherein our hearts delight, Look up to Him to make us, That to His goodness and His pow'r, That we've neglected heretofore, We may return as children.

When we return to Him again He graciously receives us, To joy He turns our every pain, To laughter turns what grieves us; To Him it is a simple art, He soon doth help to him impart Whom He with love embraceth.

Afflicted band! oh, fall ye now With contrite hearts before Him, Tell Him that ye in homage bow To His great name; implore Him In grace your sins to take away, The load He on your backs did lay To bear, your wounds to bind up.

Grace always before right must go, And wrath to love yield ever; His merest mercy, when we low Are lying, must deliver. His hand it is upholds us all, If we let go, then break and fall Must all our work to pieces.

On God's love must thou ever stay, Nor let aught overthrow thee, E'en when the heav'ns shall pass away And earth shall crash below thee: God promiseth His grace to thee, His word is clear, who fearlessly Trusts it, is ne'er deceivèd.

So darest thou His pow'r so great Ne'er doubt a moment even, Who is it that doth all create,— By whom all gifts are given? God doth it, and His counsel wise Can ever ways and means devise, When every man despaireth.

Seems help impossible to thee? This should'st thou know however, God by our narrow thoughts can be Hemm'd and confinèd never, This ne'er to us alloweth He; He everywhere,—His arm is free,— Doth more than we can fathom.

What is His wide dominion fair? 'Tis full of varied wonder; He helpeth us when dark despair We helplessly sink under, To His great name this is the praise, If thou wilt see His holy place, Thou must ascribe for ever.

How long, Lord, in forgetfulness And darkness wilt Thou leave me? How long will sorrow on me press And deep heart-anguish grieve me? Wilt Thou Thy face, Lord, utterly Turn from me? wilt ne'er look on me In grace and in compassion?

How long shall I, thy stricken child, Bereft of soul-rest languish? How long shall storm and wind so wild, Fill heart with fear and anguish? How long shall my proud enemy, Who only meaneth ill to me, Exult o'er me in triumph?

Ah! look on me, my Shield and Lord! Down from Thy holy heaven, And hear now my complaining word, My pray'r from heart grief-riven. Give to mine eyes, Lord, pow'r and might, And do not let death's gloomy night So speedily o'ertake me.

For then, Lord, ev'ry enemy Would never cease to glory, And were I prostrate utterly, Would ever triumph o'er me. “There lieth he,” they'd cry in joy, “Who caus'd us evermore annoy, He's prostrate and ne'er riseth.”

I know them, and I know fall well The wickedness they're planning, Their hearts with ev'ry evil swell, No good them e'er restraining. But Thou, the faithful One, Lord, art, And those who choose Thee for their part, Thou nevermore forsakest.

My soul doth calmly trust in Thee, Thou true to me remainest, Of malice and of subtlety The course, with pow'r restrainest. This makes my heart with joy o'erflow, That willingly dost Thou bestow Salvation on the trusting.

O Lord! for aye I'll trust in Thee, Thou'rt my sole joy for ever; Thou doest well, protectest me, From sorrow dost deliver. And therefore I my whole life long, Will sing Thee oft a gladsome song Of praise and of thanksgiving.

In grateful songs your voices raise, All people here below, To Him whom angels ever praise, In heav'n His glory show.

With gladsome songs now fill the air To God our chiefest Joy, Who worketh wonders ev'rywhere, Whose hands great things employ;

Who from the womb to latest years Upholds the life He gave; Who when no help from man appears Himself appears to save;

Who though our way His heart oft grieves, Maintains a gracious mood, Remits the pains, the sin forgives, And doth us nought but good.

Oh, may He give a joyous heart, The mind from sorrow keep, And cast all care, fear, grief, and smart Into the ocean deep.

And may His blessing ever rest On Israel's favour'd head; May all we do by Him be bless'd, May His salvation spread.

May love and goodness toward us flow, In bounteous streams each day, And every anxious care we know, Be chas'd by Him away.

As long as beats each throbbing heart, Our Saviour may He be, Our portion when from earth we part, To all eternity.

When sinks the heart, when strength decays, By Him our eyes be press'd, Then may we see His open face, In everlasting rest.

Shall I not my God be praising, And in Him not joyful be? For in all His works amazing, See I not His care for me? Is it not pure love that filleth, And His faithful heart o'erflows, When He ever cares for those, Who do only what He willeth? All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

As its brood the eagle over, Ever more its wings doth spread. So the Highest aye doth cover With His arms of pow'r my head. In the womb e'en of my mother, When to me He being gave, E'en the life that now I have, Was He then my shield and cover. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

Not too great a gift He even Deem'd His only Son to be; Him to death hath freely given, Me from fear of hell to free. Oh! Thou spring of boundless blessing, How could e'er my feeble mind Of Thy depth the bottom find, Though my efforts were unceasing? All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

And the Holy Ghost to guide me, Noble Leader! He hath giv'n, That He through the world may lead me, Onward to the gate of heav'n. That my heart He may be filling With th' unclouded light of faith, That can break the pow'r of death, And hell's rage hath pow'r of stilling. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

For my soul's well-being ever Full provision doth He make, And in ev'ry need deliver, For the body care doth take. When my pow'r, my best endeavour Cometh to extremity, Then my God appears to me, With His might comes to deliver. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

All the things in earth and heaven, E'en where'er I turn my eye, For my benefit are given, That they may my need supply. All that's living, all that's growing, On the hills or in the woods, In the vales or 'neath the floods, God is for my good bestowing. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

When I sleep, His eye is waking, When I wake, He strength'neth me, Each new morn fresh courage taking, I new love and goodness see. Had my God existed never, Had His face not guided me, From such ills so frequently, None could have deliver'd ever. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

'Gainst me many is the weapon, Forg'd by Satan's enmity, But no real hurt can happen, None hath yet befallen me. God's own angel whom He sendeth, Wardeth off each deadly blow Aim'd by the untiring foe, Who our ruin thus intendeth. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

As a father ne'er withdraweth From his child his love away, Though he often evil doeth, And from wisdom's paths doth stray. So God's heart towards me moveth, All my sins forgiveth He, Not in vengeance smiteth me, As a Father He reproveth. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

Ev'ry blow His hand inflicteth, Though the heart with pain it rend, When my heart aright reflecteth, Is a token that my Friend Thinks on me, and tow'rds me yearneth, Me from this ill world would free, That has so entangled me, By the cross to Him me turneth. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

This I know full well, and never Let it from my mind depart, Christ's cross hath its limit ever, And at length must cease to smart. When the winter snows are over Lovely summer will appear, Who can hope, from ev'ry fear, And from pain, shall they recover. All things run their course below, God's love doth for ever flow.

In God's love there is no ending, Ne'er a limit find I there, So my hands to Thee extending, As Thy child, I raise my pray'r. Father! deign Thy grace to give me, That I may with all my might Thee embrace both day and night, All my life may never leave thee, And when life is o'er with me, Love and praise eternally.

How heavy is the burden made That Thou upon our backs hast laid, O God! the Lord of Hosts, O God, whose anger rises high 'Gainst workers of iniquity.

The burden is the cruel tide Of war, that earth with blood has dyed, And fill'd with bitter tears. It is a fire that rages high 'Neath suns of almost every sky.

The burden's great and hard to bear, But Thy strong arm and Father's care Are not to us unknown. Thou punishest, but 'mid the woe Thou love and friendliness dost show.

But true to Thee must we abide, For ne'er from us dost Thou quite hide Thy saving health and light. How many hast Thou given o'er, We've oft been shielded by Thy pow'r.

In many a sad and weary hour, When gath'ring clouds did o'er us low'r Above our anxious heads, Thou still'd'st the storm, whose mighty hand Upholdeth sky and sea and land.

How often, Lord, by day and night, Our enemies with craft and might Have threaten'd us, Thy flock! But, faithful Shepherd! Thou wast near, Repell'dst the wolf and still'dst our fear.

Our brethren are compell'd to roam, Are driven forth from house and home, While we, Lord, still enjoy Each one his seat beneath the shade By his own vine and fig-tree made.

Behold! my heart, on every hand The towns and fields of many a land Are doom'd to ruin sure, The homes of men are overthrown, The houses of our God cast down.

But rest and order still remain With us, and we can still maintain The worship of our God. God's mind from out His holy word 'Mongst us is daily taught and heard.

Whoever this doth not perceive, But to the winds such thoughts doth give, Who in such blessèd light No grace, no love, no goodness find, How dark, thrice darken'd is their mind!

O gracious God! preserve us free For aye from such stupidity; Lord, give us gratitude, That songs of praise in sweetest tone We may present before Thy throne.

To nought we've done, or e'er can do, To Thee—to Thee alone is due The praise, O fount of love! We've earned destruction from Thy face, Thou deal'st with us in love and grace.

Oh! may we meditate Thy grace, Till heart shall burn and tongue shall praise, And give angelic zeal, That every throbbing pulse may be A note of praise, O Lord! to Thee.

But let the tide of woe recede, Restore to us our joy, we plead, May peace to us return. How many in this vale of tears Have never witness'd peaceful years!

Are we unworthy? then with Thee We plead for helpless infancy, Who wrong have never done. Shall cradled infants feel the stroke, Shall they endure the heavy yoke?

Have pity, Lord! oh, tender heart! What heavy sighs, what bitter smart, From our sad hearts are wrung! No stone, our Saviour God art Thou, How canst Thou so afflict us now?

How grievous are our wounds and sore, They stink and fester more and more, But Thou canst heal them all. Pour in the oil of grace, that whole Can make the body and the soul.

This wilt Thou do, we certainly Believe, although we nowhere see The means in all the world. But Thou in our extremity Dost find Thine opportunity.

Praise God! for forth hath sounded The noble word of joy and peace, There's rest where strife abounded, The sword and spear their murders cease. Up! up! again, and bring ye Now forth the sounding lyre, O Germany! and sing ye In full and noble choir, Your hearts and minds now raise ye And thank the Lord, and say, “Thy grace and goodness praise we For they endure for aye!”

'Twere just if God were driving Us in dire wrath from 'fore His face, For with us still are thriving The thorns of sin that grow apace. In deed and truth we feel it— His rod of chastisement! But say whoe'er can tell it— Who are they who repent? We're only evil ever, God's true continually, He helpeth to deliver From war and misery.

With grateful hearts o'erflowing We greet thee, noble gift of peace! Where'er thou dwell'st, now knowing How richly thou dost ever bless. God to thy keeping giveth Our good and happiness, Who woundeth thee and grieveth, In his own heart doth press [253] Grief's arrow, and in madness He quencheth in the land The golden light of gladness With suicidal hand.

What could this lesson ever Grave on our hearts so solemnly, As forts laid low for ever, And towns that now in ruins lie: As fair and fertile meadows That wav'd with golden grain, Now wrapt in forest shadows And run to waste again. As graves full of the buried, Who fell in the dread hour Of battle in ranks serried, Whose like we'll see no more.

O man! be now afflicted, And let thy tears in torrents flow, With countenance dejected To ponder to thy closet go; [254] What heretofore hath given Thy God, didst thou deride, Thy Father who's in Heaven Now turn'd hath to thy side. From fury and from pressing He turneth for thy good, As if by love and blessing Constrain thy heart He would.

Awake thee! now awake thee! Thou hard, cold world awaken'd be; Ere doom's dread hour o'ertake thee, By thee unlook'd for, suddenly. Ye for the Saviour living! Unshaken be your mood, The peace He now is giving Can only bring us good. This lesson He is giving, The end of all is nigh, Thou shalt with Him be living In peace eternally.

O Lord! I sing with mouth and heart, Joy of my soul! to Thee To earth Thy knowledge I impart, As it is known to me.

Thou art the Fount of grace, I know, And Spring aye fall and free, Whence saving health and goodness flow Each day so bounteously.

What have we here or what are we, Of good what can earth give, That we do not alone from Thee, Our Father, aye receive?

The tent-like firmament who builds, Who spreads th' expanse of blue, Who sends to fertilize our fields Refreshing rain and dew?

Who warmeth us in cold and frost, Who shields us from the wind, Who orders it that wine and must We in their season find?

Who is it life and health bestows, Who keeps us with His hand In golden peace, wards off war's woes, From our dear native land?

The work is Thine, my God! my Lord! And Thine must ever be; Before our door Thou keepest guard, In rest we're kept by Thee.

Thou feedest us from year to year, And constant dost abide; When danger fills our hearts with fear, With help art at our side.

With patience dost Thou ever chide, Nor long Thine anger keep, But castest all our sins aside Into the ocean deep.

Whene'er our burden'd hearts we raise To Thee, Thou'rt soon appeas'd; The help Thou send'st shows forth Thy praise, And our sad hearts are eas'd.

Thou mark'st how oft Thy people weep And what their sorrows are, Their tears dost in Thy bottle keep, However small they are.

Our deepest needs dost Thou supply, Thou giv'st what lasts for aye, Thou lead'st us to our home on high, When hence we pass away.

Awake! my heart, awake and sing, And joyous be thy mood, Thy God who maketh everything Is, and abides thy good—

Thy treasure and inheritance! Thy glory and delight! Thy saving health and sure defence! He keeps and guides thee right.

Why do thy cares both night and day Grieve thee so bitterly? Upon thy God thy burden lay, Who gave thy life to thee.

Hath He not all the weary way From youth till now thee led, Oft chas'd misfortune's clouds away That gather'd o'er thy head?

In all His rule no oversight Can happen, no mistakes; Whate'er He does or leaves is right, A happy issue takes.

Let Him work who doth all things well, Nor with Him interfere, And so thou shalt in glory dwell, And peace enjoy while here.

How can it be, my highest Light! That as before Thy face so bright All things must pale and vanish, That my poor feeble flesh and blood Can summon a courageous mood To meet Thee, and fear banish?

But dust and ashes what am I? My body what but grass so dry? What good the life I'm living? What can I with my utmost pow'r? What have I, Lord! from hour to hour But what Thyself art giving?

I am a poor and feeble worm, A straw, the lightest passing storm Could drive away before it. When Thou Thy hand, that all doth stay, Dost on me e'er so lightly lay, I know not how t' endure it.

Lord! I am nought, but Thou art He Who art all—all belongs to Thee, And live and move I ever In Thee—if Thou me terrifi'st, No store of grace to help suppli'st I can recover never.

I am unjust, but true Thy heart, I evil am—Thou holy art, This thought should shame be giving, That I in such an evil stand, Should from Thy mild paternal hand, The least good be receiving.

Nought else but ill from infancy Up e'en till now I've done to Thee, In sin was I begotten; And didst Thou not in faithfulness My sin remit, and me release, Lost were I and forgotten.

Let boasting then be far from me, What is Thy due I render Thee, [261] To Thee alone be glory! O Christ! may while I live below My spirit, and what thence may flow, With reverence adore Thee.

And if aught hath been done by me That is well done, it came from Thee, My pow'r could do it never. Thee thanks and honour, Lord! I bring, All my life long Thy praise I'll sing, And tell Thy glory ever.

After clouds we see the sun, Joy we feel when grief is gone, After bitter pain and sore Cometh consolation's hour. Then my soul that sank before, Even down to hell's dark door, To the heav'nly choir doth soar.

He 'fore whom the world shall flee, In my spirit comforts me, With His high and mighty hand, Tears me from the hellish band. With the love to me He shows, Swells my heart and overflows, And my blood with rapture glows.

Did I e'er 'neath sorrow bend? Did my heart grief ever rend? Have I e'er been vexèd sore? Satan e'er fool'd me before? Aye—but henceforth am I free, Faithfully thou shieldest me, My salvation comes from Thee!

What thou mean'st, my bitter foe! By thy deeds tow'rds me I know; Truly thou with all thy pow'r Seek'st me ever to devour. Had I too much trusted thee, Then had'st thou, ere I could see, In thy snares entangled me.

All the guile I know full well That in thy bad heart doth dwell; Thou my God malign'st to me, Turn'st His praise to obloquy; Speaketh out His loving heart, Keeps He silence on His part, All He doth dost thou pervert.

If I hope and look for good, If I'm in a joyous mood, From my mind thou driv'st away Every good thought—and dost say: “God doth far from thee abide, Riseth high misfortune's tide Round thee now on every side.”

Hence depart! thou lying mouth, Here is God's own ground in truth, For the face of God is here, And the beauteous light and clear Of His favour, here doth rise, All His word and counsel wise, Op'd are now before mine eyes.

God lets none in sadness stay, He with shame drives none away, Who themselves up to Him give, With the whole heart to Him cleave, Who their cares on Him aye cast, And hope in Him—joy at last, For the soul and body taste.

Though it comes not as we will, Just to-day—yet be thou still, For perchance to-morrow may Be the bright and joyous day. God's time comes with measur'd step, When it comes His word He'll keep And joy's harvest we shall reap.

Ah! how often did I think, As my feet began to sink 'Neath the heavy load of care, In the mire of blank despair, Now there is no hope for me, Rest for me there cannot be Till I enter death's dark sea.

But my God put forth His pow'r To avert and to restore, That I ne'er enough can tell What His arm hath done so well; When no path I could descry, When no help to guide was nigh, Help God sent me from on high.

When I timid and perplex'd Often have my spirit vex'd, Sleepless toss'd thro' all the night, Sick at heart when dawn'd the light, When heart fail'd me utterly, Hast Thou then appear'd to me, Turning my captivity.

Now as long as here I roam, Have on earth a house and home, 'Fore mine eyes continually Shall this thing of wonder be. All my life long shall I bring Offerings of thanks, and sing Songs of praise to God my King.

Every grief and every smart, By th'eternal Father's heart Ever yet appointed me, Or that may hereafter be Chosen for me, all my days From His gracious hand always, I'll receive with joy and praise.

I will tread woe's bitter path, I will onward go to death, I into the grave will go, Still my heart with joy shall glow. Whom the Highest will raise high, Whom th' Almighty standeth nigh, Ne'er can perish utterly.

The Lord, the earth who ruleth, And with His hand controlleth, Whose goodness never endeth, He watcheth me and tendeth.

As long as He is near me With every gift He'll cheer me, Of fulness overflowing The riches aye bestowing.

By pastures green He leads me, With gladness there He feeds me, From purest springs revives me, In need He counsel gives me.

And when the soul is fearful Through grievous thoughts and careful, He comfort giveth ever And knows how to deliver.

My steps aright He leadeth, And what to do me guideth, And for His name's sake glorious O'er fear makes me victorious.

Though often left to ponder, While in dark vales I wander, No evil fear I ever, Distress o'ertakes me never.

Thou standest still beside me, From wicked men dost hide me, Thy rod and staff protect me, And no fear can deject me.

My table Thou preparest, For my refreshment carest, When foes are plotting round me, And seek to pain and wound me.

My head with oil anointest, My empty soul appointest Of every good and pleasure A full o'erflowing measure.

The goodness Thou bestowest, The mercy that Thou showest, Till life itself forsake me, Shall glad and joyful make me.

Thy service will I never Forsake, but praise Thee ever, In Thy house where Thou livest, Reward to goodness givest.

As long as life is given On earth here, and in heaven Where I shall stand before Thee, I'll evermore adore Thee!

The golden morning, Joy her adorning, With splendour near us Draweth, to cheer us With her heart-refreshing and lovely light. My head and members Lay wrapt all in slumbers, But now awaking, And sleep from me shaking, Heaven's bless'd sunshine doth gladden my sight.

Mine eye beholdeth What God upholdeth, Made for His glory, To tell the story [271] To us of His power and might so great, And where the Father The faithful shall gather In peace, whenever Earth's lies they shall sever And leave this mortal and perishing state.

Come ye with singing, To God be bringing Goods and each blessing— All we're possessing— All be to God as an offering brought. Hearts with love glowing, With praises o'erflowing, Thanksgiving voices, In these God rejoices, All other off'rings without them are nought.

To morn and even His thoughts are given, Increase He giveth, Sorrow relieveth, [272] These are the works that He doeth alone. When we are sleeping Watch is He aye keeping, When we're awaking Care still of us taking, He makes the light of His grace to shine down.

My thoughts I've raisèd To Thee who'rt praisèd For aye in Heaven! Success be given, May all my endeavours unhinder'd be! From ev'ry evil And work of the devil, All malice ever, Oh do Thou deliver! In all Thy precepts establish Thou me!

May't pleasure give me, May no pain grieve me To see flow over The cup my brother [273] Or neighbour hath, with Thy blessings so free. Covetous burning And unchristian yearning For ill possessions, Blot out such transgressions, Cast them, O Father! all into the sea!

The life we're living What is it giving? Ere any thinketh To ground it sinketh, Soon as the breath of the grave on it blow. All things together Dread ruin must shiver, The earth and heaven They must perish even, Wrapt in the flames that shall ardently glow!

All—all decayeth, But God still stayeth, His thoughts they waver A moment never, [274] His word and will both eternally 'dure. His grace and favour Uninjur'd are ever, Deadly wounds healing, The heart with peace filling, Health here and yonder to us they ensure.

My God for ever Do Thou deliver! Shield me, and cover My debts all over, In grace, Thine eyes from my sins turn away. Govern and guide me, Be ever beside me, As it is pleasing To Thee! am I placing All in Thy hand and disposal for aye.

Wilt Thou give ever To me whatever My life is needing? May I be heeding [275] Ever the faithful word spoken by Thee. God is the highest, The greatest, the nighest, Gracious is ever, Is changeable never, Of all our treasures the noblest is He.

Wilt Thou then grieve me, Gall to drink give me? Must I be passing Through cares harassing? Do then as seemeth it good unto Thee. Whate'er supporteth, Is useful or hurteth, Thou knowest ever, And chastenest never Too much, in case we o'erburden'd should be.

Trial God sendeth, Speedily endeth The storms of ocean, The wind's commotion [276] Lightens the sunshine so gladsome and bright. Fulness of pleasure, And glorious leisure, Will then be given To me in yon Heaven Whither my thoughts aye to turn take delight.

Awake, my heart! be singing, Praise to thy Maker bringing, Of every good the Giver, Who men protecteth ever.

As shades of night spread over Earth as a pall did cover, Then Satan sought to have me, But God was near to save me.

When Satan would devour me, Thou, Father! spreadest o'er me Thy wing, Thou me embraced'st, All fear away Thou chased'st.

Thou said'st “Lie still, I'm near thee; In spite of him who'd tear thee, Sleep, child! let nought affright thee, The sunlight shall delight thee.”

Thou truly, Lord! hast told it, The light—mine eyes behold it, From dangers hast releas'd me, Thou hast renew'd and bless'd me.

Thou sacrifice would'st ever, My gifts I bring Thee hither, The offerings I'm bringing My pray'rs are and my singing.

Such Thou disdainest never, The heart Thou can'st search ever, Thou know'st none can deceive Thee No better can I give Thee.

Thou wilt, O Lord! be ending Thy work in me, and sending Who in his hands will take me, To-day his care will make me.

May I in all I'm doing Wise courses be pursuing, Beginning, middle, ending, May all to bliss be tending.

Thy blessings richly give me, My heart would now receive Thee, Thy word as food be given To me till I reach Heaven.

Praise ye Jehovah, All ye men who fear Him! Let us with gladness to His name be singing, Be thanks and praises to His altar bringing. Praise ye Jehovah!

The life we're living Who is ever giving; Care all the night who like a father taketh, And who with gladness us from sleep awaketh. Praise ye Jehovah!

That we enjoy them, And can still employ them, Our mind and senses and our every member, Thanks do we owe for this let us remember. Praise ye Jehovah!

By flames o'erpowering, Us and ours devouring, From house and homestead that we've not been driven We owe it to the care of God in Heaven. Praise ye Jehovah!

That no thief, breaking Through our doors and taking Our property, and us assaulting hurt us, Is that He sent His angels to support us. Praise ye Jehovah!

Oh, faithful Saviour! Fount of every favour! Ah! let Thy kindness and protection hover, By day and night our life at all times over. Praise ye Jehovah!

Deign, Lord, to hear us, And to-day be near us! Supported by Thy grace, may nought e'er hinder Our progress; and, in need, help speedy render. Praise ye Jehovah!

Our will subduing, Make us Thine be doing, Teach us to labour faithfully; whenever Beneath the load we're sinking, then deliver. Praise ye Jehovah!

Do Thou direct us When Thou dost afflict us, That we may never mock; but be preparing Before Thy throne hereafter for appearing. Praise ye Jehovah!

And all true-hearted Who're by grace converted Wilt Thou, Lord, come for, and by grace be bringing Where all Thine angels evermore are singing, Praise ye Jehovah!

The daylight disappeareth, It fleeth, and night neareth, Its gloom is spreading o'er us, With slumber to o'erpower us And all the wearied earth. The working day now endeth, My heart to Thee ascendeth, For toil and rest who'st given The morning and the even,— In praise my heart bursts forth.

Break forth, my heart, in singing, Praise to thy Maker bringing, Who soul and body giveth, More good than heart conceiveth, Or tongue can ever tell; No moment passeth over That doth not much discover Of goodness overflowing, He's aye on us bestowing, Each hour doth show it well.

Just as the shepherd's treasure, The sheep in boundless pleasure O'er greenest pastures wander, Their guardian's guidance under, With free and fearless mind, Themselves with flowers filling, Their thirst at fresh springs stilling, So me to-day hath guided, With every good provided, My Shepherd, good and kind.

God hath not me forsaken, Though I sin's course have taken, Not fearing e'er to leave Him, By waywardness to grieve Him, And wound His Father-heart. Let, Father, Thy zeal never Burn 'gainst me, nor me sever From Thee and from Thy blessing; My doing and transgressing Awake regret and smart.

Oh! hear me, Father, praying, My waywardness and straying From Thee, my evil doing, Into the ocean throwing, Forgive eternally. But may Thine angels hover Round me, and be my cover, All evil from me keeping; With Thee will I be sleeping, I'll rise again with Thee.

Now may mine eyelids closing Be peacefully reposing, All free from care and sorrow, Till on the golden morrow I joyfully awake. Thy wings shall shield me ever, The enemy shall never Thy flock and me endanger, Whom day and night in anger His prey he seeks to make.

When silent or when talking, When sitting or when walking, To Thee I'm wholly given, Thou art my life from heaven, This word is true and sore. In every undertaking, In sleeping hours and waking, My fortress art Thou ever, Thine arm doth aye deliver, My bliss doth aye endure.

Now spread are evening's shadows, O'er forests, towns, and meadows, And sleepeth ev'ry eye; Awake my pow'rs and sing ye, And pray'r and praises bring ye, That your Creator please on high!

O Sun! where art thou vanish'd? The night thy light hath banish'd, The night of day the foe; Go then, for now appeareth Another Sun and cheereth My heart—'tis Jesus Christ, my joy!

We've seen the day's declining, The golden stars are shining In yonder dark-blue sky. There shall I be for ever When God doth me deliver, From this low vale of misery.

To rest the body hasteth, Itself of clothes divesteth, Type of mortality! I'll put it off, and o'er me Christ will the robe of glory Throw, and of immortality!

Head, hands, and feet so tirèd Are glad the day's expirèd, That work comes to an end; My heart be fill'd with gladness That God from all earth's sadness, And from sin's toil relief will send.

Lie down, my members tirèd Upon your couch desirèd, Lie down my wearied head! A day and hour is nearing They'll be for you preparing Beneath the sod, a quiet bed.

Mine eyes scarce ope are keeping, A moment—I'll be sleeping, Where's body then and soul? In grace Thy care then make me, May evil ne'er o'ertake me, Thou Shepherd Lord of Israel!

O Jesus, be my cover! And spread both Thy wings over Thy child, and shield Thou me! Though Satan would devour me, Let angels ever o'er me Sing, “This child shall uninjur'd be!”

And you, my well belovèd! Shall by no ill be movèd, No danger shall betide. God peaceful slumbers send you, With golden arms defend you, Send guardian angels to your side!

Go forth, my heart, and seek delight In this summer time so bright, The bounties God displayeth, The garden's splendour go and see, Behold how God for me and thee Them gorgeously arrayeth.

The trees with leaves are cover'd o'er, The earth with carpet spreads her floor Of green, all fresh and tender, The tulip and narcissus wear Attire of finer texture fair Than Solomon in splendour.

The lark aspiring soars on high, Flies from her cleft the dove so shy, [290] And seeks the woodland shadow; The nightingale with song so rare Delights and fills the ev'ning air O'er mountain, vale, and meadow.

Leads forth her little brood the hen, The stork builds near the haunts of men, And feed their young the swallows; The stag so swift, the roe so light Of foot, come bounding from the height Into the grassy hollows.

The brooklets murmur in the sand, And fringe the edge on either hand With myrtle rich in shadow; The shepherds and the sheep rejoice, In joy and mirth you hear their voice Sound from the neighb'ring meadow.

The bee through all the live-long hours, Unwearied roams among the flow'rs, [291] Its precious stores to gather; The strong juice of the vine each hour Is ever gaining strength and pow'r This glorious summer weather.

While springeth fast the precious grain, The young and old exult again, Praise Him with all their powers, Whose benefits unceasing are, With gifts so manifold and rare Who human nature dowers.

I cannot rest, I never dare, In my Creator's gracious care My inmost soul rejoices, To God most High, when all things raise A song of universal praise, My voice shall join their voices.

Methinks it is so pleasant here, All things so beautiful appear [292] In this our poor world even; What will it be when earth we leave, And at its golden gates receive Glad welcome into Heaven?

What purest light, what ecstasy, Will in the Saviour's garden be! How will it sound when 'fore Thee, All with united heart and voice, Ten thousand seraphins rejoice And rev'rently adore Thee.

Ah! blessèd God, oh! were I there Before Thy throne, and did I bear My branch of palm victorious, As angels do, my voice I'd raise Thine ever blessèd name to praise, In songs of triumph glorious.

But though I still am dwelling here, And still the body's burden bear, [293] Can I be silent?—Never! My heart, no matter where I be, Or here or there, shall bend to Thee, In adoration ever.

Help! Lord, my soul with blessings crown, With blessings that from Heav'n flow down, That I may blossom ever! And may the summer of Thy grace Cause fruits of faith to grow apace, Fruits that shall wither never.

And may Thy Spirit dwell in me, May I a good branch ever be Ingrafted in the Saviour! In Thine own garden may I be To Thy name's praise a goodly tree, Implanted by Thy favour!

Grant me Thy paradise to share, And more fruit may I ever bear [294] While I am going thither. Thine honour, Lord, to me is dear, Thee and Thee only shall I here And yonder serve for ever.

O God! who dost Heav'n's sceptre wield What is it that now makes our field, And everything that it doth bear, Such sad and ruin'd aspect wear?

Nought else, in truth, but that the band Of men from Thee on every hand Have fallen utterly away, Their guilt increasing every day.

They who as God's own property His name should praise continually, And of God's word should love the light, Like heathen are involv'd in night.

The Heav'ns are all with darkness clad, The firmament's clear light doth fade; We wait to see the light again At dawn of day, but wait in vain.

In ceaseless strifes involv'd men are, In every place is fearful war, In every corner hate and spite, Contentions every class delight.

The elements o'er all the land Are stretching out 'gainst us the hand, And troubles from the sea arise, And troubles come down from the skies.

It is a time of anguish sore, For hunted, plagued their time before The people are into the grave, No rest to them do they vouchsafe.

The source of joy becometh sad, The sun hath ceas'd to make us glad, And all at once the clouds descend, Shed tears that never seem to end.

Ah, child of man! go weep alone, Thy many grievous sins bemoan, Henceforward from thy crimes refrain, Repent, and be thou clean again.

Fall on thy knees, thyself now throw On God, that He may mercy show, That His deservèd wrath may be By Him to grace turn'd speedily.

He's faithful, and aye true will be, Nought else desireth but that we With reverence and godly fear To seek His mercy should draw near.

Ah! Father, Father, hear our cry, Redeem us, 'neath sin's yoke we lie, From out the world drawn may we be, And Thou Thyself turn us to Thee.

Subdue Thou our rebellious mood, And make us, sinners, pure and good; Whom Thou dost turn, soon turn'd is he, Who heareth Thee, is heard by Thee!

And let Thine eye now friendly be, The anguish'd cry that reacheth Thee From earth, from our sad hearts, O Lord, With gracious ear do Thou regard.

Wrath's black robe tear off with Thy hand And comfort Thou us and our land, And may the genial sun shine forth And ripen the fair fruits of earth.

And, Lord, as long as we may live Our daily bread in bounty give, And when the end of time we see The bread give of eternity!

Now gone is all the rain, Rejoice my heart again, Sing after times of sadness To God thy Lord with gladness! Our God His heart hath turnèd Our pray'r He hath not spurnèd.

On sea and on our land Outstretchèd was His hand, In anger us addressing; He said, “Ye're aye transgressing, In ways of sin ye wander, Nor ever turn, nor ponder.

“So shall my Heaven's light Its countenance so bright With robe of blackness cover, With dark clouds be spread over; No longer shine in glory But shall be weeping o'er thee.”

Appeas'd His wrath our sighs That to His ears did rise, For He forgetteth never His mercy that dures ever, His Spirit tow'rd us yearning, His anger ceas'd from burning.

The clouds away then sped, The path the damp winds tread, From whence the rain descended, Was clos'd, the torrents ended, And from the deeps of Heaven No waters more were given.

Now wearied field away Thy robe of sadness lay, Arise from out thy sadness And let us hear with gladness Thee songs of summer raising, Thy great Creator praising.

The glorious sun, see there, Comes forth again so fair, With blessings earth doth cover; Now all the rains are over, Hills, valleys are receiving Its wondrous beams life-giving.

The earth's reviv'd again; What drown'd was by the rain Will once again be living And precious fruit be giving, The fields good wheat forth bringing, In meadows grass be springing.

The trees so very fair Fruit-laden will stand there; From hill-sides like a river Will wine and oil flow ever; In warm and quiet weather Will bees their honey gather.

Our portion He will give Who in the Heav'ns doth live. He'll bounteously bestow it, We shall partake and know it; And what earth will supply us Will amply satisfy us.

God faithful is and true, His mercy's ever new, His anger soon is turnèd. He gives what we've ne'er earnèd He doth Himself discover To us, our sins looks over.

O man! direct thy ways, And all thou dost, to praise Thy Master's love and favour, So that thy heart may never His faithful heart be grieving, To Him offence be giving!

Full of wonder, full of art, Full of wisdom, full of pow'r, Full of kindness, grace, and heart, Full of comfort flowing o'er, Full of wonder, still I say, Is Love's chaste and gentle sway.

Those who've never met before, Ne'er each other known nor seen, Never in the idlest hour Thus employ'd their thoughts have been, Yet whose hearts and hands in love Tieth God who lives above!

His child doth this father guide, That one traineth his each day, Each their special wind and tide Speed upon their sep'rate way, [303] When the time appointed's there, Lo! they're a well-mated pair!

Here grows up a prudent son, And a noble daughter there; One will be the other's crown, One the other's rest from care Each will be the other's light, But from both 'tis hidden quite,

Till it's pleasing in His sight Who the world holds in His pow'r, To all giveth what is right Freely in th' appointed hour; Then appears in word and deed What hath been by Him decreed.

Then Ahasuerus' eye First doth quiet Esther see; To where Sara peacefully Dwells, Tobias leadeth He; David then, with pliant will, Fetcheth prudent Abigail.

Jacob flees from Esau's face, And he meeteth Rachel fair; Joseph in a foreign place Serves, and winneth Asnath there; Moses did with Jethro stay, And bore Zipporah away.

Each one taketh, each doth find What the Lord doth choose for him; What in Heaven is design'd, Comes to pass on earth in time. And whatever happens thus Order'd wisely is for us.

This or that might better be, Oft this foolish thought is ours; But as midnight utterly Fails to be like noonday's hours, So the feeble mind of man God's great wisdom cannot scan.

Whom God joins together live, What the best is knoweth He, [305] Our thoughts only can deceive, His from all defects are free; God's work standeth firm for aye, When all other must decay.

Look at pious children who Enter'd have the holy state, How well for them God doth do, See what joys upon them wait; To their doings God doth send Evermore a happy end.

Of their virtues the renown Blossometh for evermore, As a shadow when is gone Of all other love the flow'r; When truth faileth everywhere, Their's still bloometh fresh and fair,

Fresh their love is evermore, Ever doth its youth renew, Love their table covers o'er, Sweetens all they say and do. [306] Love their hearts aye giveth rest, When they're burden'd and oppress'd.