34. The Heav'ns declare thy Glory, Lord

1 The Heav'ns declare thy Glory, Lord,
which that alone can fill;
The Firmament and Stars express
their great Creator's Skill.
2 The Dawn of each returning Day,
fresh Beams of Knowledge brings;
From darkest Night's successive rounds
divine Instruction springs.

3 Their pow'rful language to no Realm
or Region is confin'd;
'Tis Nature's Voice, and understood
alike by all Mankind.
4 Their Doctrine does its sacred Sense
through Earth's Extent display;
Whose bright contents the circling Sun
does round the World convey.

5 No Bridegroom for his Nuptials dress'd,
has such a chearful Face:
No Giant does like him rejoice,
to run his glorious Race.
6 From East to West, from West to East,
his restless Course he goes;
And, through his Progress, chearful Light,
and vital Warmth bestows.

Part II

7 God's perfect Law converts the Soul,
reclaims from false Desires;
With sacred wisdom His sure Word
the Ignorant inspires.
8 The Statutes of the Lord are just,
and bring sincere Delight;
His pure commands in search of Truth
assist the feeblest Sight.

9 His perfect Worship here is fix'd,
on sure Foundations laid:
His equal Laws are in the Scales
of Truth and Justice weigh'd:
10 Of more Esteem than golden Mines,
or Gold refin'd with Skill;
More sweet than Honey, or the Drops
that from the Comb distil.

11 My trusty Counsellors they are,
and friendly Warnings give:
Divine Rewards attend on those
who by thy Precepts live.
12 But what frail Man observes how oft
he does from Virtue fall!
O, cleanse me from my secret Faults,
thou God that know'st them all.

13 Let no presumptuous Sin, O Lord,
Dominion have o'er me;
That, by thy Grace preserv'd, I may
the great Transgression flee.
14 So shall my Pray'r and Praises be
with thy Acceptance blest;
And I secure, on thy Defence,
my Strength and Saviour, rest.

Text Information
First Line: The Heav'ns declare thy Glory, Lord
Language: English
Publication Date: 1754
Scripture:
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