University of Virginia Library

V.

[What shall I do to love Thee]

What shall I do to love Thee,
Who perfect goodness art?
Let Thy own nature move Thee
To tell my listening heart:
To Thee its pining anguish,
Its every wish is known;
In life, in death, I languish
To love my God alone.
Weary alas! of living
A stranger to my Lord,
Yet still in darkness cleaving
To Thy most faithful word,

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The blessing I implore,
The gift of righteousness,
And knock at mercy's door
And seek the promised grace.
Surrounded with temptations
I for Thy coming stay,
Possess my soul in patience,
And long to see Thy day:
O when shall Thy appearance
Bid all my troubles cease,
And crown my perseverance
With true, eternal peace?
O could I once behold Thee
The joy of those above,
In arms of faith enfold Thee
The object of my love,
With humblest adoration
I should my soul resign,
And glory in salvation
Through endless ages mine!