The Choir and The Oratory :: :: University of Virginia Library

I love the Lord, for He hath heard my cry,
And bowed His ear, and listened to my prayer.
Shall I not trust in Him? Yes, till I die,
Unto His mercy-seat I will repair,
To tell Him all my wants, and spread my sorrows there.

162

The shades of death around me fell;
I seemed as on the verge of hell;
By pain with fiery fetters bound,
And darkness and distress around.
Then did my soul His succour crave:
“Lord God Almighty, hear and save!”
Great is His grace; His ways are right;
In mercy doth our God delight.
The Guardian of the meek; 'twas He,
When I was brought low, succoured me.

Now, O my soul, enjoy the sweet repose
Of gratitude and love. Dismiss thy fears.
The Lord hath more than recompensed my woes,
Rescued my soul from death, and dried my tears,
Upheld my sinking steps, and lengthened out my years.

Yes, I shall live to praise His Name,
I said: and faith's reviving flame
Inspired my lips. For, sorely tried,
All hope had long within me died;
And rashly I was fain to deem
All men deceivers; Truth, a dream.

163

Oh, how shall I the Lord requite
For mercies countless, infinite?
Still shall His praise my lips employ;
And, as the votive cup of joy
I raise, and bless my Saviour's name,
Before his saints I will proclaim
His mercy: in Jehovah's house,
My offerings shall fulfil my vows.

Not lightly is the blood of saints esteemed
By Him they serve. And, Lord, am I not thine?
Thy servant, in Thy household born, redeemed
By Thee from death? Yes, freely I resign
Henceforth to Thee, my God, this ransomed life of mine.

To Thee each morning I will bring
A grateful heart's thank-offering.
Before Thy people, in Thy house,
I will perform my solemn vows.
Salem, thy sons with sweet accord
Shall join my song, and praise the Lord.