African Methodist Episcopal Church Hymnal ‎#523

523. Pleasant Are Thy Courts Above

1 Pleasant are Thy courts above
In the land of light and love;
Pleasant are Thy courts below
In this land of sin and woe.
O my spirit longs and faints
For the converse of Thy saints,
For the brightness of Thy face,
For Thy fullness, God of grace.

2 Happy birds that sing and fly
Round Thy altars, O Most High;
Happier souls that find a rest
In a heavenly Father's breast!
Like the wandering dove that found
No repose on earth around,
They can to their ark repair
And enjoy it ever there.

3 Happy souls, their praises flow
Even in this vale of woe;
Waters in the desert rise,
Manna feeds them from the skies;
On they go from strength to strength
Till they reach Thy throne at length,
At Thy feet adoring fall,
Who hast led them safe through all.

4 Lord, be mine this prize to win;
Guide me through a world of sin,
Keep me by Thy saving grace,
Give me at Thy side a place.
Sun and shield alike Thou art;
Guide and guard my erring heart.
Grace and glory flow from Thee;
Shower, O shower them, Lord, on me.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: Pleasant are Thy courts above
• Title: Pleasant Are Thy Courts Above
• Author: Henry F. Lyte, 1793-1847
• Meter: 77.77.D.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2011
• Scripture:
  Psalm 84
• Topic: The Living Church: The Church; God: Grace; Peace; Zion

Tune Information

• Name: MAIDSTONE
• Composer: Walter B. Gilbert, 1829-1910
• Meter: 77.77.D.
• Key: F Major or modal