Doctor Watts's Imitation of the Psalms of David ‎#XXXVIb

XXXVIb. Practical Atheism exposed; or, the Being and Attributes of GOD asserted

1 While men grow bold in wicked ways,
And yet a GOD they own,
My heart within me often says,
"Their thoughts believe there's none.

2 Their thoughts and ways at once declare,
(What e'er their lips profess)
GOD hath no wrath for them to fear,
Nor will they seek his Grace.

3 What strange self-flattery blinds their eyes!
But there's a hastening hour,
When they shall see with sore surprise
The terrors of thy power.

4 Thy justice shall maintain its throne,
Tho' mountains melt away;
Thy judgements are a world unknown,
A deep, unfathom'd sea.

5 Above the heavens' created rounds,
Thy mercies, Lord, extend;
Thy truth out-lives the narrow bounds,
Where time and nature end.

6 Safety to man thy goodness brings,
Nor overlooks the beast;
Beneath the shadow of thy wings
Thy children chuse to rest.

7 [From thee, when creature-streams run low.
And mortal comforts die,
Perpetual springs of life shall flow,
And raise our pleasures high.

8 Tho' all created light decay,
And death close up our eyes,
Thy presence makes eternal day,
Where clouds can never rise.]

Text Information

• First Line: While men grow bold in wicked ways
• Title: Practical Atheism exposed; or, the Being and Attributes of GOD asserted
• Meter: Com. Metre
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1785
• Scripture:
  Psalm 36:1-2
  ;
  Psalm 36:5-7
  ;
  Psalm 36:9

Tune Information

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