CPWI Hymnal ‎#488

488. Prayer is the soul's sincere desire

1 Prayer is the soul's sincere desire,
uttered or unexpressed;
the motion of a hidden fire
that trembles in the breast.

2 Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
the falling of a tear,
the upward glancing of an eye
when none but God is near.

3 Prayer is the simplest form of speech
that infant lips can try;
prayer the sublimest strains that reach
the majesty on high.

4 Prayer is the contrite sinner's voice,
returning from his ways,
while angels in their songs rejoice,
and cry: behold he prays!

5 Prayer is the Christian's vital breath,
the Christian's native air,
his watchword at the gates of death:
he enters heaven with prayer.

6 O thou by whom we come to God,
the Life, the Truth, the Way!
The path of prayer thyself hast trod:
Lord! Teach us how to pray.!

Text Information

• First Line: Prayer is the soul's sincere desire
• Author: James Montgomery, 1771-1854
• Meter: C.M.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2010
• Scripture:
  Luke 18:1
• Topic: General Hymns: Prayer and Penitence
• Notes: A rhythmic setting of BEDFORD is found at 487

Tune Information

• Name: BEDFORD (Isometric)
• Composer: William Wheale, 1690-1727
• Meter: C.M.
• Key: E♭ Major