Hymnal: A Collection of Hymns and A Liturgy #287 (1814) Meter: 8.8.8.8 Lyrics: 1 Ah wretched souls, who strive in vain,
Slaves to the world, and slaves to sin!
A nobler toil may I sustain,
A nobler satisfaction win.
2 I would resolve with all my heart,
With all my pow'rs to serve the Lord,
Nor from his precepts e'er depart,
Whose service is a rich reward.
3 O be his service all my joy!
Around let my example shine;
Till others love the blest employ,
And join in labours so divine.
4 Be this the purpose of my soul,
My solemn my determin'd choice,
To yield to his supreme control,
And in his kind commands rejoice.
5 O may I never faint nor tire,
Nor wandering leave his sacred ways;
Great God! accept my soul's desire,
And give me strength to live thy praise. Topics: The Christian Character and Life, In General Languages: English
Ah wretched souls who strive in vain