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470. Searcher of hearts, before Thy face

1 Searcher of hearts, before Thy face
I all my soul display,
And, conscious of its innate arts,
Entreat Thy strict survey.

2 If, lurking in its inmost folds,
I any sin conceal,
O let a ray of light divine
The secret guile reveal!

3 If in these fatal fetters bound
A wretched slave I lie:
Smite off my chains, and wake my soul
To light and liberty!

4 To humble penitence and prayer
Be gentle pity given;
Speak ample pardon to my heart,
And seal its claim to heaven.

Text Information
First Line: Searcher of hearts, before Thy face
Author: Doddridge (1755)
Meter: C. M.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1890
Topic: The Christian Life: Wisdom and Self-Knowledge; Eighth Sunday after Trinity; Twenty Third Sunday after Trinity
Notes: Now Public Domain. Alternate tune: #67 or #159
Tune Information
Name: ST. ETHELDREDA
Meter: C. M.
Key: F Major
Notes: Now Public Domain. Composer from index: Dr. Turton, 1860



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