The Lutheran Hymnary ‎#256

256. Father, I know that all my life

1 Father, I know that all my life
Is portioned out for me;
The changes that are sure to come,
I do not fear to see:
I ask Thee for a present mind,
Intent on pleasing Thee.

2 I ask Thee for a thoughtful love,
Through constant watching wise,
To meet the glad with joyful smiles,
To wipe the weeping eyes;
A heart at leisure from itself
To soothe and sympathize.

3 I would not have the restless will
That hurries to and fro,
Seeking for some great thing to do,
Or secret thing to know;
I would be treated as a child,
And guided where I go.

4 Wherever in the world I am,
In whatsoe'er estate,
I have a fellowship with hearts
To keep and cultivate;
A work of lowly love to do
For Him on whom I wait.

5 I ask Thee for the daily strength,
To none that ask denied,
A mind to blend with outward life,
While keeping at Thy side,
Content to fill a little space,
If Thou be glorified.

6 In service which Thy will appoints
There are no bonds for me;
My secret heart is taught the truth
That makes Thy children free;
A life of self-renouncing love
Is one of liberty.

Text Information

• First Line: Father, I know that all my life
• Author: Anna L. Waring (1850)
• Meter: 8, 6. 6L.
• Publication Date: 1913
• Topic: The Church Year: Septuagesima; Activity and Zeal
• Notes: Public Domain.

Tune Information

• Name: [Father, I know that all my life]
• Composer: Dr. C. Steggall, 1826—1905
• Meter: 8, 6. 6L.
• Key: E♭ Major
• Notes: Public Domain.