Methodist Hymn and Tune Book ‎#397

397. Never in a costly palace did I rest on golden bed

1 Never in a costly palace did I rest on golden bed,
Never in a hermit's cavern have I eaten idle bread.
Born within a lowly stable, where the cattle round Me stood,
Trained a carpenter in Naz'reth, I have toiled and found it good.

2 They who tread the path of labour follow where My feet have trod;
They who work without complaining, do the holy will of God;
Nevermore thou needest seek Me; I am with thee everywhere;
Raise the stone, and thou shalt find Me, cleave the wood and I am there.

3 Where the many toil together, there am I among My own;
Where the tired workman sleepeth, there am I with him alone.
I, the peace that passeth knowledge, dwell amid the daily strife;
I, the Bread of heav'n, am broken in the sacrament of life.

4 Every task, however simple, sets the soul that does it free;
Every deed of love and mercy, done to man, is done to Me.
Nevermore thou needest seek Me; I am with thee everywhere;
Raise the stone, and thou shalt find Me, cleave the wood and I am there.

Text Information

• First Line: Never in a costly palace did I rest on golden bed
• Author: Dr. Henry van Dyke, 1852-
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1917
• Topic: The Church and the Kingdom of God: Social Service; Following Christ; Labour: Dignity of

Tune Information

• Name: BEECHER
• Composer: J. Zundel, 1815-1882
• Harmonizer: Dr. E. J. Hopkins, 1818-1901
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7.8.7
• Key: B♭ Major