The Seventh-Day Adventist Hymn and Tune Book ‎#512

512. My rest is in heaven, my rest is not here

1 My rest is in heaven, my rest is not here,
Then why should I tremble when trials are near?
Be hushed, my sad spirit, the worst that can come
But shortens my journey, and hastens me home.

2 It is not for me to be seeking my bliss,
Or building my hopes in a region like this;
I look for a city that hands have not piled,
I pant for a country by sin undefiled.

3 The thorn and the thistle around me may grow,
I would not lie down upon roses below;
I ask not my portion, I seek not my rest,
Till I find them forever on Jesus' breast.

4 Afflictions may press me, they cannot destroy;
One glimpse of his love turns them all into joy;
And the bitterest tears, if he smile but on them,
Like dew in the sunshine, grow diamond and gem.

5 Let doubt, then, and danger, my progress oppose,
They only make heaven more sweet at its close;
Come joy, or come sorrow, whate'er may befall,
An hour with my God will make up for them all.

6 A scrip on my back, and a staff in my hand,
I march on in haste through an enemy's land;
The road may be rough, but it cannot be long;
I'll smooth it with hope, and I'll cheer it with song.

Text Information

• First Line: My rest is in heaven, my rest is not here
• Author: Henry F. Lyte
• Publication Date: 1886
• Topic: The Christian: Hymns for Social Worship

Tune Information

• Name: REST IN HEAVEN
• Composer: Lowell Mason
• Meter: 11s
• Key: E♭ Major
• Notes: Alternate tunes: #511 or 255.