Text Results

Switch back to the old search page.Advanced Search

Showing 1 - 50 of 105Results Per Page: 10 20 50

Many a gift did Christ impart

Author: Ernst Lange; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Many a gift did Christ impart, Noblest of them all is Love, Love, a balm within the heart That can all its pains remove; Love, a star most bright and pure; Love, a gem of priceless worth, Richer than man knows on earth; Love, like beauty, strong to lure; Love, like joy, makes man her thrall, Strong to please and conquer all. Love can give us all things; here Use and beauty cannot sever; Love can raise us to that sphere Whence the soul tends heavenwards ever; Though one speak with angel tongues Bravest words of strength and fire, If no love his heart inspire, They are but as fleeting songs; All his eloquence shall pass, As the noise of sounding brass. Science with her keen-eyed glance, All the wisdom of the world, Mysteries that the soul entrance, Faith that mighty hills had hurled From their ancient seats;--all this, Wherein man takes most his pride, Valueless is cast aside, If the spirit there we miss, That can work from love alone, Not from pride in what is known. Though I lavished all I have On the poor in charity; Though I shrank not from the grave, Or unmoved the stake could see; Though my body here were given To the all-consuming flame; If my mind were still the same, Meeter were I not for heaven, Till by Love my works were crowned, Till in Love my strength were found. Faith must conquer, Hope must bloom, As our onward path we wend, Else we came not through the gloom, But with earth they also end: Thou, O Love, doth stretch afar Through the wide eternity, And the soul arrayed in Thee Shines for ever as a star. Faith and hope must pass away, Thou, O Love, endurest aye. Come, thou Spirit of pure Love, Who dost forth from God proceed, Never from my heart remove, Let me all Thy impulse heed; All that seeks self-profit first, Rather than another's good, Whether foe or linked in blood, Let me hold such thought accurst; And my heart henceforward be Ruled, inspired, O Love, by thee!

Not in anger smite us, Lord

Author: Albinus; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.5.7.5.3.4.7.7 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: Not in anger smite us, Lord, Spare Thy people, spare! If Thou mete us due reward We must all despair. Let the flood Of Jesus' blood Quench the flaming of Thy wrath, That our sin enkindled hath. Father! Thou hast patience long With the sick and weak; Heal us, make us brave and strong, Words of comfort speak. Touch my soul, And make me whole With Thy healing precious balm; Ward off all would bring me harm. Weary am I, Lord, and worn With my ceaseless pain; Sad the heart that night and morn Sighs for help in vain. Wilt Thou yet My soul forget, Waiting anxiously for Thee In the cave of misery? Hence, ye foes! God hears my prayer From His holy place; Once again with hope I dare Come before His face. Satan flee, Hell touch not me; God hath given me power o'er all, Who once mocked and sought my fall.

Awake, O man, and from thee shake

Author: Crasselius; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.6.8.6.8.8.10.10 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: Awake, O man, and from thee shake This heavy sleep of sin! Soon shall the Highest vengeance take, Soon shall His wrath begin To smite the wretched sinner home; In awful terrors He shall come, To mete to all on earth their due reward, Only the righteous spares our angry Lord. Come then, ye sinners, great and small, Weeping and mourning sore, Low down before his footstool fall, And vow to sin no more. In faith and godliness array Your souls against that final day, So shall ye 'scape His wrath, and blessed die, Heirs of the kingdom with your Lord on high. Oh lay to heart this wondrous thought, Through what sore agony And death was your redemption bought, And to your Saviour flee Ere yet to late; the world disown, And fix your love on Christ alone, And do His will; for at the final doom, Those who dishonoured Him shall wrath consume. Turn Thou us, and we shall be turned, Thou broughtest back of old Thy straying people, when they yearned After their proper fold; Even so forgive what we have done, Accept us in Thy blessed Son, And let Thy Holy Spirit be our guide, That we may spread Thy praises far and wide!

Here, O my God, I cast me at Thy feet

Author: Anonymous; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 10.10.10.10 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: Here, O my God, I cast me at Thy feet, Ready to suffer what Thou thinkest meet; Yet look on me, great God, with pitying eyes, Reward me not for mine iniquities! To oft, alas! my heart hath loved to stray Downward along Sin's broad and easy way; And worldly pride and carnal lusts most foul Were shameless cherished in my inmost soul. Thy Majesty have I offended, Lord, And set at nought Thy law, Thy holy Word; I had not learnt Thy righteous wrath to dread, Nor saw the vengeance gathering o'er my head. O wretched man, what evil have I wrought! Who may these heavy chains of sin unbind? Can man nor creature show me any place, Where I may flee and hide me from God's face! Nay, I must flee to God Himself, from whom Our life and help, our hope and safety come; What all the world must unaccomplished leave, Thou, for Thou art Almighty, canst achieve. Think on the covenant Thou hast never broken, Think on the steadfast oath Thyself hast spoken, Know that I am a God, Thy promise saith, Who hath no pleasure in a sinner's death. Then let the arms of love be round me thrown, Have pity on me, hear my bitter moan, Call back Thy sheep, that wandering far astray, Was lost in sin, nor knew its homeward way. Grant me to rule my inner life aright, And act and speak as ever in Thy sight, A friend to all true virtue, but a foe To all Thou hatest, sins and follies low. Thou Merciful! what thanks and praise shall be For Thy great goodness offered unto Thee, As is most meet, while here my days I spend, And yonder in the world that shall not end!

Out of the depths I cry to thee

Author: Luther; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.6.8.6.8.8.9 Appears in 42 hymnals Lyrics: Out of the depths I cry to thee, Lord God! oh hear my prayer! Incline a gracious ear to me, And bid me not despair: If Thou rememberest each misdeed, If each should have its righteous meed, Lord, who shall stand before Thee? 'Tis through Thy love alone we gain The pardon of our sin; The strictest life is but in vain, Our works can nothing win, That none should boast himself of aught, But own in fear Thy grace hath wrought What in him seemeth righteous. Wherefore my hope is in the Lord, My works I count but dust, I build not there, but on His word, And in His goodness trust. Up to His care myself I yield, He is my tower, my rock, my shield, And for His help I tarry. And though it linger till the night, And round again till morn, My heart shall ne'er mistrust Thy might, Nor count itself forlorn. Do thus, O ye of Israel's seed, Ye of the Spirit born indeed, Wait for your God's appearing. Though great our sins and sore our wounds, And deep and dark our fall, His helping mercy hath no bounds, His love surpasseth all. Our trusty loving Shepherd He, Who shall at last set Israel free From all their sin and sorrow.

In the bonds of Death He lay

Author: Luther; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.7.4 Appears in 8 hymnals Lyrics: In the bonds of Death He lay, Who for our offense was slain, But the Lord is risen today, Christ hath brought us life again. Wherefore let us all rejoice, Singing loud with a cheerful voice Hallelujah! Of the sons of men was none Who could break the bonds of Death, Sin this mischief dire had done, Innocent was none on earth; Wherefore Death grew strong and bold, Death would all men captive hold. Hallelujah! Jesus Christ, God's only Son, Came at last our foe to smite, All our sins away hath done, Done away Death's power and right, Only the form of Death is left, Of his sting he is bereft; Hallelujah. 'Twas a wondrous war, I trow, When Life and Death together fought; But life hath triumphed o'er his foe, Death is mocked and set at nought; Yea, 'tis as the Scripture saith, Christ through death has conquered Death. Hallelujah. Now our Paschal Lamb is He, And by Him alone we live, Who to death upon the tree, For our sake Himself did give. Faith His blood strikes on our door, Death dares never harm us more. Hallelujah. On this day most blest of days, Let us keep high festival, For our God hath showed His grace, And our Sun hath risen on us all, And our hearts rejoice to see Sin and night before Him flee. Hallelujah. To the supper of the Lord, Gladly we will come today, The word of peace is now restored, The old leaven is put away; Christ will be our food alone, Faith no life but His doth own. Hallelujah.

Come to Thy temple here on earth

Author: Paul Gerhardt; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.6.8.6.8.8.8.6 Appears in 5 hymnals Lyrics: Come to Thy temple here on earth, Be Thou my spirit's guest, Who givest us of mortal birth A second birth more blest; Spirit beloved, Thou mighty Lord, Who with the Father and the Son Reignest upon an equal throne, Art equally adored! Oh enter, let me feel and know Thy mighty power within, That can alone our help bestow, And rescue us from sin. Oh cleanse my soul and make it white, That I with heart unstained and true, May daily render service due, And honour Thee aright. I was a wild unfruitful vine Which Thou shouldst prune and train; Death pierced through all this life of min, But Thou my foe hast slain. Thy holy baptism is his grave, He perishes beneath the flood Of His most precious death and blood, Who died our life to save. Thou art the Spirit who dost teach To pray aright, for all Our prayers are heard if Thou beseech, Thy songs have sweetest fall. They soar on tireless wings to heaven, They fail not from before God's throne, Till all His goodness we have known By whom all help is given. Thou art the Spirit of all joy, Sadness Thou lovest not; Thy comfort beaming from on high, Lights up the darkest lot. Ah yes, how many a time of old Thy voice hath rapt my soul away, To yon bright halls of endless day, And oped the gates of gold! Thou art the Spirit of all love, The Friend of all kindly life, Thou wouldst not that our hearts should prove The pangs of wrath and strife. Thou hatest hatred's withering reign, In souls that discord maketh dark Dost Thou rekindle love's bright spark, And make them one again. On Thee is all this world upstaid, And in Thy hands doth rest; And Thou canst wayward hearts persuade To turn as seems Thee best: Oh therefore give Thy love and peace, That they may join in strongest bands Long parted foes, and through our lands These sad divisions cease. Thou art the true, the only Source Whence concord comes to men; Oh that Thy power might have free course And bring us peace again! Oh hear, and stem this mighty flood That o'er us death and sorrow spreads; Alas! each day afresh it sheds Like water human blood. And let our nation learn to know What, and how deep, our sin; Nay, let God's judgments come, if so A fire be lit within The hearts that loved themselves to please; In bitter shame now let them burn, And loving Thee, repentant spurn Their selfish worldly ease. Grace for the contrite heart abounds, Joy to the sad is given; To serve God's truth will heal our wounds, And bring us help from heaven; Lord, for Thine honour's sake, make known Thy power, convert the wicked now, And teach the hard to weep, for Thou Canst soften steel and stone! Arise and make an end of all Our heartache, and our pain; Thy wandering flock at last recall And grant them joy again; To peace and wealth the land restore, Wasted with fire or plague or sword; Come to Thy ruined churches, Lord, And bid them bloom once more! The rulers of our land defend, Our sovereign's throne uphold; That he and we may prosper, send True wisdom to the old; With piety the young men bless, And through the nation shed abroad True virtue and the fear of God, A nation's happiness. Fill every heart with holy zeal To keep the faith unstained; Let house and land Thy blessing feel, Whence all true wealth is gained. Him who resists Thy inward powers, The Evil Spirit, make Thou flee; Whate'er delights Thy heart, would he Fain root from out of ours. Give strong and cheerful hearts to stand Undaunted in the wars That Satan's fierce and mighty band Is waging with Thy cause. Help us to fight as warriors brave, That we may conquer in the field, And not one Christian man may yield His soul to sin a slave. Order according to Thy mind Our life from day to day, And when this life must be resigned, And death has seized his prey, When all our days have fleeted by, Help us to die with fearless spirit, And let us after death inherit Eternal life on high.

Come, Holy Spirit, God and Lord

Author: Luther; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8 D with alleluias Appears in 70 hymnals Lyrics: Come, Holy Spirit, God and Lord, Be all Thy graces now outpoured On the believer's mind and soul, And touch our hearts with living coal. Thy Light this day shone forth so clear, All tongues and nations gathered near, To learn that faith, for which we bring Glad praise to Thee, and loudly sing, Hallelujah, Hallelujah! Thou Strong Defence, Thou Holy Light, Teach us to know our God aright, And call Him Father from the heart: The Word of life and truth impart, That we may love not doctrines strange, Nor e'er to other teachers range, But Jesus for our Master own And put our trust in Him alone. Hallelujah, Hallelujah! Thou Sacred Ardour, Comfort Sweet, Help us to wait with ready feet And willing heart at Thy command, Nor trial fright us from Thy band. Lord, make us ready with Thy powers, Strengthen the flesh in weaker hours, That as good warriors we may force Through life and death to Thee our course. Hallelujah, Hallelujah!

Most High and Holy Trinity!

Author: Angelus; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.6.8.6.8.8.8.8 Appears in 8 hymnals Lyrics: Most High and Holy Trinity! Who of Thy mercy mild Hast formed me here in Time, to be Thy image and Thy child: Oh let me love Thee day and night With all my soul, with all my might; Oh come, Thyself my soul prepare, And make Thy dwelling ever there! Father! replenish with Thy grace This longing heart of mine, Make it Thy quiet dwelling-place, Thy sacred inmost shrine! Forgive that oft my spirit wears Her time and strenght in trivial cares, Enfold her in Thy changeless peace, So she from all but Thee may cease! Oh God the Son! Thy wisdom's light On my dark reason pour; Forgive that things of sense and sight Were all her joy of yore; Henceforth let every thought and deed On Thee be fixed, from Thee proceed, Draw me to Thee, for I would rise Above these earthly vanities! Oh Holy Ghost! Thou fire of love, Enkindle with Thy flame my will; Come with Thy strength, Lord, from above, Help me Thy bidding to fulfil: Forgive that I so oft have done What I as sinful ought to shun; Let me with pure and quenchless fire Thy favour and Thyself desire! Most High and Holy Trinity! Draw me away far hence, And fix upon eternity All powers of soul and sense! Make me at one within; at one With Thee on earth; when life is done Take me to dwell in light with Thee, Most High and Holy Trinity!

On wings of faith, ye thoughts, fly hence

Author: J. G. Hermann; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.10.10 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: On wings of faith, ye thoughts, fly hence, Roam o'er Eternity's vast field, Surpass the bounds of time and sense, And rise to Him, who hath revealed That He is Love: there pause, and awestruck view That ancient love with every morning new! Ere earth's foundations yet were laid, Or heaven's fair roof was spread abroad, Ere man a living soul was made, Love stirred within the heart of God; Love filled the long futurity with good, And grace to help at need beside her stood. 'Twas Love whose counsel gave to me True life in Christ Thy only son, Whom Thou hast made our Way to Thee, From whom all grace flows ever down; Whose sacrifice can make us pure and whole, And bless and hallow all our inmost soul. 'Twas Love, that long ere time began, That precious name of child bestowed; That opened Heaven on earth to man, And called us sinners sons of God; Whose gracious promptings move the Father's hand, That on the page of life our names may stand! Ah happy hours, whene'er upsprings My soul to yon Eternal Source, Whence the glad river downward sings, Watering with goodness all my course, So that each passing day anew I prove How tender and how true my Father's love! For what am I? At His command The million creatures of His power Start to life on sea and land; Oh why should God such blessings shower On me, who am a leaf that fadeth fast, A little shifting dust before the blast! I am not worthy, Lord, that Thou Shouldst such compassion on me show; That He who made the world should bow To cheer with love a wretch so low. O Father, I would utterly resign Myself to Thee; take me, and make me Thine. When strength and heart grow faint and sad, From battling long with heavy pain, Thy smile shines forth to make me glad, Thou crownest me with joy again; Then I behold Thy Spirit's wondrous power, Whose work is mightiest in our weakest hour. Forth from Thy rich and bounteous store Life's common blessings daily flow; More than we dare to ask, far more That we deserve, dost Thou bestow. My heart dissolves in tears of thankfulness, To see how true Thy care, how quick to bless. Nor here alone: hope pierces far Through all the shades of earth and time; Faith mounts beyond the farthest star, Yon shining heights she loves to climb, And gazing on eternity behold The promised land, our heritage of old. Can I with loveless heart receive Tokens of love that never cease? Can I be thankless still, and grieve Him who is all my joy and peace? Ah Friend of Man, were I to turn from Thee, Myself were sure my own worst enemy. Could I but honour Thee aright, Noble and sweet my song should be, That earth and heaven should learn Thy might, And what my God hath done for me. There is no music sweet as is Thy name, No joy so deep as pondering o'er Thy fame. O heart redeemed! thou think'st it long Till the appointed hour be come, When thou shalt join the angels' song To that Fair Love that brought thee home. Have patience, heart; time hurries fast away, Soon shalt thou reach the one Eternal Day.

Heart and heart together bound

Author: Zinzendorf; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.7.7.7 Appears in 8 hymnals Lyrics: Heart and heart together bound, Seek in God your true repose, In your love the price be found Of your Saviour's love and woes; We the members, He the Head, He the sun, we beams He showers, Brethren by one Master led, We are His, and he is ours. Children of His realm draw near, Make your covenant stronger still, From your hearts allegiance swear Unto Him who conquered ill. If your bonds are yet too weak, If but fragile yet they prove, Help from His good Spirit seek Who can steel the chains of love. Only such love will suffice, As the love that dwells in Him, Love that from the cross ne'er flies, Love that spares not life or limb; 'Twas for sinners He was slain, 'Twas for foes He shed His blood, That His death for all might gain Endless life--the Highest Good. Thus, O truest Friend, unite All Thy consecrated band, That their hearts be set aright To fulfil Thy last command. Each must onward urge his friend, Helping him in word and deed, Love's blest pathway to ascend, Following on where Thou dost lead. Thou who dost command that all Practise love who bear Thy name, Wake the dead, new followers call, Touch the slothful with Thy flame. Let us live, O Lord, at one, As Thou with the Father art, That through all the world be none Of Thy members left apart. Then were given what Thou hast sought, In the Son were all men freed, And the world at last were taught That Thy rule is blest indeed. Father of all souls, we praise Thee who shinest in the Son; Lord, to Thee our hymns we raise, Who hast all men to Thee drawn!

What within me and without

Author: A. H. Franke, 1663-1727; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.7.7.7 Appears in 8 hymnals Lyrics: What within me and without, Hourly on my spirit weighs, Burdening heart and soul with doubt, Darkening all my weary days: In it I behold Thy will, God, who givest rest and peace, And my heart is calm and still, Waiting till Thou send release. God! Thou art my rock of strength, And my home is in Thine arms, Thou wilt send me help at length, And I feel no wild alarms. Sin nor Death can pierce the shield Thy defence has o'er me thrown, Up to Thee myself I yield, And my sorrows are Thine own. Thou my shelter from the blast, Thou my strong defence art ever; Though my sorrows thicken fast, Yet I know Thou leav'st me never; When my foe puts forth his might, And would tread me in the dust, To this rock I take my flight, And I conquer him through trust. When my trials tarry long, Unto Thee I look and wait, Knowing none, though keen and strong, Can my faith in Thee abate. And this faith I long have nurst, Comes alone, O Lord, from Thee; Thou my heart didst open first, Thou didst set this hope in me. Christians! cast on Him your load, To your tower of refuge fly; Know He is the Living God, Ever to His creatures nigh. Seek His ever-open door In your hours of utmost need; All your hearts before Him pour, He will send you help with speed. But hast thou some darling plan, Cleaving to the things of earth? Leanest thou for aid on man? Thou wilt find him nothing worth. Rather trust the One alone Whose is endless power and love, And the help He gives His own, Thou in very deed shalt prove. Yea, on Thee, my God, I rest, Letting life float calmly on, For I know the last is best, When the crown of joy is won. In Thy might all things I bear, In Thy love find bitters sweet, And with all my grief and care Sit in patience at Thy feet. O my soul, why art thou vexed? Let things go as e'en they will; Though to thee they seem perplexed, Yet His order they fulfil. Here He is thy strength and guard, Power to harm thee here has none; Yonder will He each reward For the works he here has done. Let Thy mercy's wings be spread O'er me, keep me close to Thee, In the peace Thy love doth shed, Let me dwell eternally. Be my All; in all I do Let me only seek Thy will, Where the heart to Thee is true, All is peaceful, calm, and still.

Wouldst thou inherit life with Christ on high?

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Simon Dach Meter: 10.6.6.10.10.4 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Wouldst thou inherit life with Christ on high? Then count the cost, and know That here on earth below Thou needs must suffer with thy Lord and die. We reach that gain to which all else is loss, But through the cross. Oh think what sorrows Christ himself has known! The scorn, and anguish sore, The bitter death He bore, Ere He ascended to His heavenly throne; And deemest thou, thou canst with right complain, Whate'er thy pain? Not e'en the sharpest sorrows we can feel, Nor keenest pangs, we dare With that great bliss compare When God His glory shall in us reveal, That shall endure when our brief woes are o'er For evermore!

If God be on my side

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Paul Gerhardt Meter: 6.6.8.6 Appears in 11 hymnals Lyrics: If God be on my side, Then let who will oppose, For oft ere now to Him I cried, And he hath quelled my foes. If Jesus be my Friend, If God doth love me well, What matters all my foes intend, Though strong they be and fell? Here I can firmly rest, I dare to boast of this, That God the Highest and the Best, My Friend and Father is. From dangerous snares He saves, Where'er He bids me go He checks the storms and calms the waves, That nought can work me woe. I rest upon the ground Of Jesus and His blood, For 'tis through Him that I have found The True Eternal Good. Nought have I of mine own, Nought in the life I lead, What Christ hath given me, that alone Is worth all love indeed. His Spirit in me dwells, O'er all my mind He reigns, All care and sadness He dispels, And soothes away all pains. He prospers day by day His work within my heart, Till I have strength and faith to say, Thou God my Father art! When weakness on me lies, And tempts me to despair, He speaketh words and utters sighs Of more than mortal prayer; But what no tongue can tell, Thou God canst hear and see, Who readest in the heart full well If aught there pleaseth Thee. He whispers in my breast Sweet words of holy cheer, How he who seeks in God his rest Shall ever find Him near; How God hath built above A city fair and new, Where eye and heart shall see and prove What faith has counted true. There is prepared on high My heritage, my lot; Though here on earth I sink and die, My heaven shall fail me not. Though here my days are dark, And oft my tears must rain, Whene'er my Saviour's Light I mark, Lo, all is bright again. Who joins him to that Lord Whom Satan flies and hates, Shall find himself despised, abhorred, For him the burden waits Of mockery and shame, Heaped on his guiltless head; And crosses, trials, cruel blame, Shall be his daily bread. I knew it long ere now, Yet am I not afraid; The God to whom I pledged my vow, Will surely send His aid. At cost of all I have, At cost of life and limb, I cling to God who yet shall save, I will not turn from Him. The world may fail and flee, Thou standest fast for ever, Nor fire, nor sword, nor plague, from Thee My trusting soul shall sever. No hunger, and no thirst, No poverty or pain, Let mighty princes do their worst, Shall fright me back again. No joys that angels know, No throne or wide-spread fame, No love or loss, no fear or woe, No grief of heart or shame — Man cannot aught conceive Of pleasure or of harm That e'er could tempt my soul to leave Her refuge in Thine arm. My heart for gladness springs, It cannot more be sad, For very joy it laughs and sings, Sees nought but sunshine glad. The sun that glads mine eyes Is Christ the Lord I love, I sing for joy of that which lies Stored up for us above.

Well for him who all things losing

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Anon. Meter: 9.8.9.8 Appears in 22 hymnals Lyrics: Well for him who all things losing, E'en himself doth count as nought, Still the one thing needful choosing That with all true bliss is fraught! Well for him who nothing knoweth But his God, whose boundless love Makes the heart wherein it gloweth, Calm and pure as saints above! Well for him who all forsaking Walketh not in shadows vain, But the path of peace is taking Through this vale of tears and pain! Oh that we our hearts might sever From earth's tempting vanities, Fixing them on Him for ever In whom all our fulness lies! Oh that we might Him discover Whom with longing love we've sought, Joining us to Him for ever, For without Him all is nought! Oh that ne'er our eyes might wander From our God, so might we cease Ever o'er our sins to ponder, And our conscience be at peace! Thou abyss of love and goodness, Draw us by Thy cross to Thee, That our senses, soul, and spirit Ever one with Christ may be!

Go forth, my heart, and seek delight

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Paul Gerhardt Meter: 8.8.6.8.8.6 Appears in 7 hymnals Lyrics: Go forth, my heart, and seek delight In all the gifts of God's great might, These pleasant summer hours: Look how the plains for thee and me Have decked themselves most fair to see, All bright and sweet with flowers. The trees stand thick and dark with leaves, And earth o'er all here dust now weaves A robe of living green; Nor silks of Solomon compare With glories that the tulips wear, Or lilies' spotless sheen. The lark soars singing into space, The dove forsakes her hiding-place, And coos the woods among; The richly-gifted nightingale, Pours forth her voice o'er hill and dale, And floods the fields with song. Here with her brood the hen doth walk, There builds and guards his nest the stork, The fleet-winged swallows pass; The swift stag leaves his rocky home, And down the light deer bounding come To taste the long rich grass. The brooks rush gurgling through the sand, And from the trees on either hand, Cool shadows o'er them fall; The meadows at their side are glad With herds; and hark! the shepherd lad Sends forth his mirthful call. And humming, hovering to and fro, The never-wearied swarms no go To seek their honey'd food; And through the vine's yet feeble shoots Stream daily upwards from her roots New strength and juices good. The corn springs up, a wealth untold, A sight to gladden young and old, Who now their voices lift To Him who gives such plenteous store, And makes the cup of life run o'er With many a noble gift. Thy mighty working, mighty God, Wakes all my powers; I look abroad And can no longer rest: I too must sing when all things sing, And from my heart the praises ring The Highest loveth best. I think, Art Thou so good to us, And scatterest joy and beauty thus O'er this poor earth of ours; What nobler glories shall be given Hereafter in Thy shining heaven, Set round with golden towers! What thrilling joy when on our sight Christ's garden beams in cloudless light, Where all the air is sweet, Still laden with the unwearied hymn From all the thousand seraphim Who God's high praise repeat! Oh were I there! Oh that I now, Dear God, before Thy throne could bow, And bear my heavenly palm! Then like the angels would I raise My voice, and sing Thy endless praise In many a sweet-toned psalm. Nor can I now, O God, forbear, Though still this mortal yoke I wear, To utter oft Thy name; But still my heart is bent to speak Thy praises; still, though poor and weak, Would I Thy love proclaim. But help me; let Thy heavenly showers Revive and bless my fainting powers, And let me thrive and grow Beneath the summer of Thy grace, And fruits of faith bud forth apace While yet I dwell below. And set me, Lord, in Paradise When I have bloomed beneath these skies Till my last leaf is flown; Thus let me serve Thee here in time, And after, in that happier clime, And Thee, my God, alone!

O God, O Spirit, Light of all that live

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Gerhard Tersteegen Meter: 10.10.10.10.10.10 Appears in 16 hymnals Lyrics: O God, O Spirit, Light of all that live, Who dost on us that sit in darkness shine, Our darkness ever with Thy Light dost strive, In vain Thou lur'st us with Thy beams divine; Yet none, O Spirit, from Thine eye can hide, Gladly [will] I Thy searching glance abide. Search all my hidden parts, whate'er impure Thy Light discovers there, do Thou destroy; The bitterst pain I willingly endure, Such pain is followed by eternal joy; Thou'lt cleanse me from my stains of darkest hue, And in Christ's image form my soul anew. I cannot stay the venomed power of sin, 'Tis Thy anointing only can avail; Oh make my spirit new and right within, Without Thee all my utmost efforts fail. Life to my cold dead soul I cannot give, Be Thou my life, so only shall I live. O Breath from out the Eternal Silence, blow All softly o'er my spirit's barren ground, The precious fulness of my God bestow, That where erst sin and shame alone were found, Faith, love, and holy reverence may upspring, In spirit and in truth to worship God our King. Oh let my thoughts, my actions and my will Obedient solely to Thy impulse move, My heart and senses keep Thou blameless still, Fixed and absorbed in God's unuttered love. Thy praying, teaching, striving, in my heart, Let me not quench, nor make Thee to depart. O Fount, O Spirit, who dost take and show Things of the Son to us, who crystal clear From God's throne and the Lamb's doth ceaseless flow Into the quiet hearts that seek Thee here, I open wide my mouth, and thirsting sink Beside Thy stream, its living waves to drink. I give myself to Thee, to Thee alone, From all else sundered, Thou art ever near, The creature and myself I all disown, Trusting with inmost faith that God is here! O God, O Spirit, Light of Life, we see None ever wait in vain, who wait for Thee.

Why halt thus, O deluded heart

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Lehr Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8.2 Appears in 2 hymnals Lyrics: Why halt thus, O deluded heart, Why waver longer in thy choice? Is it so hard to choose the part Offered by Heaven's entreating voice? Oh look with clearer eyes again, Nor strive to enter in, in vain. Press on! Remember, 'tis not Caesar's throne, Nor earthly honour, wealth or might Whereby God's favour shall be show To him who conquers in the fight; Himself and an eternity Of bliss and rest he offers thee. Press on! God crowneth no divided heart; To Him oh hallow all thy life! Who loveth Jesus but in part, he works himself much pain and strife, And gains what he deserveth well, Here conflict, and hereafter hell. Press on! Who wrestling long, with many a cry Can bid farewell at last to all, Yet ever loves the Lord most High, Loves Him alone whate'er befall, Is counted worthy of the crown, And on a kingly throne set down. Press on! Then break the rotten bonds away That hinder you your race to run, That make you linger oft and stay; Oh be your course afresh begun! Let no false rest your soul deceive, Up! 'tis a Heaven ye must receive! Press on! Omnipotence is on your side, And Wisdom watches o'er your heads, And God Himself will be your guide So ye but follow where He leads; How many guided by His hand, Have reached ere now their father-land! Press on! Nor let the body dull the soul, Its weakness, fears, and sloth despise; Man toils and roams from pole to pole To gain some earthly fleeting prize, The Highest Good he little cares To win, or striving soon despairs. Press on! Oh help each other, hasten on, Behold the goal is nigh at hand; The battle-field shall soon be won, Your King shall soon before you stand! To calmest rest He leads you now, And sets His crown upon your brow. Press on!

O God, I long Thy Light to see

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Anton Ulrich, Duke of Brunswick Meter: 8.8.8.8 Appears in 8 hymnals Lyrics: O God, I long Thy Light to see, My God, I hourly think on Thee; Oh draw me up, nor hide Thy face, But help me from Thy holy place. As toward her sun the sunflower turns, Towards Thee, my Sun my spirit yearns; Oh would that free from sin I might Thus follow evermore Thy Light! But sin hath so within me wrought, Such deadly sickness on me brought, My languid soul sits drooping here And cannot reach the heavenly sphere. Ah how shall I my freedom win? How break this heavy yoke of sin? My fainting spirit thirsts for Thee, Come, Lord, to help and set me free. My heart is set to do Thy will, But all my deeds are faulty still; My best attempts are nothing worth, But soiled with cleaving taint of earth. Remember that I am Thy child, Forgive whate'er my soul defiled, Blot out my sins, that I may rise Freely to Thee beyond the skies. Help me to love the world no more, Be Master of my house and store, The shield of faith around me throw, And break the arrows of my foe. Fain would my heart henceforward be Fixed, O my God, alone on Thee, That heart and soul by Thee possest, May find in Thee their perfect rest. Begone, ye pleasures false and vain, Untasted, undesired remain! In heaven alone those joys abound, Where all my true delight is found. Oh take away whate'er has stood Between me and the Highest Good; I ask no better boon than this, To find in God my only bliss.

O Friend of Souls, how well is me

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Wolfgang C. Deszler Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8 Appears in 15 hymnals Lyrics: O Friend of Souls, how well is me, Whene'er Thy love my spirit calms! From sorrow's dungeon forth I flee, And hide me in Thy shelt'ring arms. The night of weeping flies away Before the heart-reviving ray Of love, that beams from out Thy breast; Here is my heaven on earth begun; Who were not joyful had he won In Thee, O God, his joy and rest! The world may call herself my foe, So be it; for I trust her not, E'en though a friendly face she show, And with her bounties heap my lot. In Thee alone will I rejoice, Thou art the Friend, Lord, of my choice, For Thou art true when friendships fail; 'Mid storms of woe Thy truth is still My anchor; hate me as it will, The world shall o'er me ne'er prevail. Through deserts of the cross Thou leadest, I follow leaning on Thy hand; From out the clouds Thy child Thou feedest, And giv'st him water from the sand. I know Thy wondrous ways will end In love and blessing, Thou true Friend, Enough if Thou art ever near! I know, whom Thou wilt glorify, And raise o'er sun and stars on high, Thou lead'st through depths and darkness here. To others Death seems dark and grim, But not, Thou Life of life, to me; I know Thou ne'er forsakest him Whose heart and spirit rest in Thee. Oh who would fear his journey's close, If from dark woods and lurking foes, He then found safety and release? Nay, rather with a joyful heart From this dark region I depart To Thy eternal light and peace. O Friend of souls, then well indeed Is me, when on Thy love I lean! The world, nor pain, nor death I heed, Since Thou, my God, my joy hast been. Oh let this peace that Thou hast given Be but a foretaste of Thy heaven, For goodness infinite is Thine. Hence, world, with all thy flattering toys! In God alone be all my joys; Oh rich delight, my Friend is mine!

Who seeks in weakness an excuse

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Marperger Meter: 8.7.8.7.6.6.8.6.6.8 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Who seeks in weakness an excuse, His sins will vanquish never; Unless he heart and mind renews, He is deceived for ever. The strait and narrow way, That shines to perfect day, He hath not found, hath never trod; Little he knows, I ween, What prayer and conflict mean To one who hath the light of God. In what the world calls weakness lurks The very strength of evil, Full mightily it helps the works Of our great foe the devil. Awake, my soul, awake, Thy refuge quickly take With Him, the Almighty, who can save; One look from Christ thy Lord Can sever every cord That binds thee now, a wretched slave. Know, the first step in Christian lore Is to depart from sin; True faith will leave the world no more A place thy heart within. Thy Saviour's Spirit first The heavy bonds must burst, Wherein Death bound thee in thy need; Then the freed spirit know What strength He gives to those Who with their Lord are risen indeed. And why Thy Spirit, Lord, began Help Thou with inner might! Earth has no better gift for man Than strength and love of right. Oh make Thy followers just Who look to Thee in trust, Thy strength and justice let us know; Our souls through Thee would wear The power of grace, most fair Of all the jewels faith can show. Strong Son of God, break down Thy foes, So shall we conquer ours; Strong in the might from Thee that flows, We mourn not lack of powers, E'er since that from above, The witness of Thy love Thy Spirit cam, and doth abide With us, dispelling fear And falsehood, that we here May fight and conquer on Thy side. Give strength, whene'er our strength must fail; Give strength the flesh to curb; Give strength when craft and sin prevail To weaken and disturb. The world doth lay her snares To catch us unawares, Give strength to sweep them all away; So in our utmost need, And when death comes indeed, Thy strength shall be our perfect stay.

Leave God to order all thy ways

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Neumarck Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8 Appears in 41 hymnals Lyrics: Leave God to order all thy ways, And hope in Him whate'er betide, Thou'lt find Him in the evil days Thy all-sufficient strength and guide; Who trusts in God's unchanging love, Builds on the rock that nought can move. What can these anxious cares avail, These never-ceasing moans and sighs? What can it help us to bewail Each painful moment as it flies? Our cross and trials do but press The heavier for our bitterness. Only thy restless heart keep still, And wait in cheerful hope; content To take whate'er His gracious will, His all-discerning love hath sent; Nor doubt our inmost wants are known To Him who chose us for His own. He knows when joyful hours are best, He sends them as He sees it meet; When thou hast borne the fiery test, And now art freed from all deceit, He comes to thee all unaware, And makes thee own His loving care. Nor in the heat of pain and strife, Think God hath cast thee off unheard, And that the man, whose prosperous life Thou enviest, is of Him preferred; Time passes and much change doth bring, And sets a bound to everything. All are alike before His face; 'Tis easy to our God most High To make the rich man poor and base, To give the poor man wealth and joy. True wonders still by Him are wrought, Who setteth up, and brings to nought. Sing, pray, and swerve not from His ways, But do thine own part faithfully, Trust His rich promises of grace, So shall they be fulfilled in thee; God never yet forsook in need The soul that trusted Him indeed.

O Cross, we hail thy bitter reign

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Gotter Meter: 8.8.8.8 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: O Cross, we hail thy bitter reign, O come, thou well-beloved guest! Whose sorest sufferings work not pain, Whose heaviest burden is but rest. For is not our Redeemer bound In closest ties of love to those Who faithful to the cross are found, Through ceaseless tears, through saddest woes? Hark, the confessors of the faith Yet of their cross and fetters boast; All saints have borne it to the death, With all the martyrs' radiant host. Pledge of our glorious home afar! Thee, Holy Sign, with joy we take, Sign of a peace life could not mar, Of just content death could not shake: The Sign how Truth, once crucified, Now throned in majesty doth reign, How Love is bless'd and glorified, That here on earth was mocked and slain. Their names are writ in words of light Who here on earth their Lord confest; They hear the bridegroom's cry at night, Come to my marriage feast, ye blest! Who then would faint, nor join to share In Christ's reproach, in want or pain? The bitterest death who would not dare? Who fears a martyr's crown to gain? Up, Brethren of the Cross! and haste Where Christ our Head hath gone before! We hymn His praise the while we taste The shame and death He sometime bore. In bonds and stripes, in falsest blame, Our crown, our dearest wealth we see, A dungeon were a throne, and shame Our chiefest glory, borne for Thee. What though the world on us may fling Its scorn, and oft we strive with death, The holy angels speed to bring Our help and strength, our victor's wreath. Up, quit the gates where sin abides, From earth's doomed cities quickly come, Yon eastern Star full surely guides All pilgrims to their Father's home.

Be thou content; be still before

Author: Paul Gerhardt; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.10.10.4 Appears in 5 hymnals Lyrics: Be thou content; be still before His face, at whose right hand doth reign Fulness of joy for evermore, Without whom all thy toil is vain. He is thy living spring, thy sun, whose rays Make glad with life and light thy dreary days. Be thou content. In Him is comfort, light and grace, And changeless love beyond our thought; The sorest pang, the worst disgrace, If He is there, shall harm thee not. He can lift off thy cross, and loose thy bands, And calm thy fears, nay, death is in His hands. Be thou content. Or art thou friendless and alone, Hast none in whom thou canst confide? God careth for thee, lonely one, Comfort and help will He provide. He sees thy sorrows and thy hidden grief, He knoweth when to send thee quick relief; Be thou content. Thy heart's unspoken pain He knows, Thy secret signs He hears full well, What to none else thou dar'st disclose, To Him thou mayst with boldness tell; He is not far away, but ever nigh, And answereth willingly the poor man's cry. Be thou content. Be not o'er-mastered by thy pain, But cling to God, thou shalt not fall; The floods sweep over thee in vain, Thou yet shalt rise above them all; For when thy trial seems to hard to bear, Lo! God, thy King, hath granted all thy prayer: Be thou content. Why art thou full of anxious fear How thou shalt be sustained and fed? He who hath made and placed thee here, Will give the needful daily bread; Canst thou not trust His rich and bounteous hand, Who feeds all living things on sea and land? Be thou content. He who doth teach the little birds To find their meat in field and wood, Who gives the countless flocks and herds Each day their needful drink and food, Thy hunger too will surely satisfy, And all thy wants in His good time supply. Be thou content. Sayst thou, I know not how or where, No help I see where'er I turn; When of all else we most despair, The riches of God's love we learn; When thou and I His hand no longer trace, He leads us forth into a pleasant place. Be thou content. Though long His promised aid delay, At last it will be surely sent: Though thy heart sink in sore dismay, The trial for thy good is meant. What we have won with pains we hold more fast, What tarrieth long is sweeter at the last. Be thou content. Lay not to heart whate'er of ill Thy foes may falsely speak of thee, Let man defame thee as he will, God hears, and judges righteously. Why shouldst thou fear, if God be on thy side, Man's cruel anger, or malicious pride? Be thou content. We know for us a rest remains, When God will give us sweet release From earth and all our mortal chains, And turn our sufferings into peace. Sooner or later death will surely come To end our sorrows, and to take us home: Be thou content. Home to the chosen ones, who here Served their Lord faithfully and well, Who died in peace, without a fear, And there in peace for ever dwell; The Everlasting is their joy and stay, The Eternal Word Himself to them doth say, Be thou content!

Leave all to God

Author: Anton Ulrich, Duke of Brunswick; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 4.8.7.7.8.4 Appears in 6 hymnals Lyrics: Leave all to God, Forsaken one, and stay thy tears; For the Highest knows thy pain, Sees thy sufferings and thy fears Thou shalt not wait His help in vain, Leave all to God. Be still and trust! For His strokes are strokes of love, Thou must for thy profit bear; He thy filial fear would move, Trust thy Father's loving care, Be still and trust! Know, God is near! Though thou think Him far away, Though His mercy long have slept, He will come and not delay, When His child enough hath wept, For God is near! O teach Him not When and how to hear thy prayers; Never doth our God forget, He the cross who longest bears Finds his sorrows' bounds are set, Then teach Him not. If thou love Him, Walking truly in His ways, Then no trouble, cross or death, E'er shall silence faith and praise; All things serve thee here beneath, If thou love God!

Come, brethren, let us go!

Author: Gerhard Tersteegen; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 6.6.8.6 Appears in 23 hymnals Lyrics: Come, brethren, let us go! The evening closeth round, 'Tis perilous to linger here On this wild desert ground. Come, towards eternity Press on from strength to strength, Nor dread your journey's toils nor length, For good its end shall be. We shall not rue our choice, Though straight our path and steep, We know that He who called us here His word shall ever keep. Then follow, trusting; come, And let each set his face Toward yonder fair and blessed place, Intent to reach our home. The body and the house Deck not, but deck the heart With all your powers; we are but guests, Ere long we must depart. Ease brings disease; content Howe'er his lot may fall, A pilgrim bears and bows to all, For soon the time is spent. Come, children, let us go! Our Father is our guide; And when the way grows steep and dark, He journeys at our side. Our spirits He would cheer, The sunshine of His love Revives and helps us as we rove, Ah, blest our lot e'en here! Each hasten bravely on, Not yet our goal is near; Look to the fiery pillar oft, That tells the Lord is here. Your glances onward send, Love beckons us, nor think That they who following chance to sink Shall miss their journey's end. Come, children, let us go! We travel hand in hand; Each in his brother finds his joy In this wild stranger land. As children let us be, Nor by the way fall out, The angels guard us round about, And help us brotherly. The strong be quick to raise The weaker when they fall; Let love and peace and patience bloom In ready help for all. In love yet closer bound, Each would be least, yet still On love's fair path most pure from ill, Most loving, would be found. Come, wander on with joy, For shorter grows the way, The hour that frees us from the flesh Draws nearer day by day. A little truth and love, A little courage yet, More free from earth, more apt to set Your hopes on things above. It will not last for long, A little farther roam; It will not last much longer now Ere we shall reach our home; There shall we ever rest, There with our Father dwell, With all the saints who served Him well, There truly, deeply blest. For this all things we dare,— 'Tis worth the risk I trow,— Renouncing all that clogs our course, Or weighs us down below. O world, thou art too small, We seek another higher, Whither Christ guides us ever nigher, Where God is all in all. Friend of our perfect choice, Thou joy of all that live, Being that know'st not chance or change, What courage dost Thou give! All beauty, Lord, we see, All bliss and life and love, In Him in whom we love and move, And we are glad in Thee!

Though all to Thee were faithless

Author: Novalis Meter: 7.6.7.6 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: Though all to Thee were faithless, I yet were true, my Head, To show that love is deathless, From earth not wholly fled. Here didst Thou live in sadness, And die in pain for me, For this I give with gladness My heart and soul to Thee. I could weep night and morning That Thou hast died, and yet So few will heed Thy warning, So many Thee forget. O loving and true-hearted, How much for us didst Thou! Yet is Thy fame departed, And none regards it now. But still Thy love befriends us, Of every heart the guide; Unfailing help it lends us, Thou all had turned aside. Oh! such love soon or later Must conquer, must be felt, Then at Thy feet the traitor In bitter tears shall melt. Lord, I have inly found Thee, Depart Thou not from me, But wrap Thy love around me, And keep me close to Thee. Once too my brethren, yonder Upgazing where Thou art, Shall learn Thy love with wonder, And sink upon Thy heart.

Oh well for him who all things braves

Author: Anon.; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: Oh well for him who all things braves, A soldier of the Lord to be, Whom vice counts not among her slaves, From envy, pride, and passion free; Who wars against the world of sin Without him, and self-will within. Who follows Christ whate'er betide, Is worthy of a soldier's name; Is He thy Way, thy Light, thy Guide, 'Tis meet thou also bear His shame; Who shrinks from dark Gethsemane, Shall Tabor's glories never see. What profits it that Christ hath deigned To wear our mortal nature thus, If we ourselves have ne'er attained That God reveal Himself in us? The pure and virgin soul alone He chooseth for His earthly throne. What profits it that Christ is born, And bringeth childhood back to men, Unless our long-lost right we mourn, And win through penitence again, And lead a God-like life on earth, As children of the second birth? What profits all that Christ hath taught, If man is slave to reason still, And worldly wisdom, honour, thought, Rule all his acts, and move his will? He follows what his Lord doth teach Who true denial of self would reach. What profit us His deeds and life, His meekness, love so quick to bless, If we give place to pride and strife, Dishonouring thus His holiness? What profits it, if for reward, And not in faith, we call Him Lord? What profits us His agony, If we endure not pain and scorn? 'Tis combat brings forth victory, Of sorrow sweetest joys are born; And ne'er to him Christ's crown is given, Who hath not here with Adam striven. What profit ye His death and cross, Unless to self ye also die? Ye love your life to find it loss, Afraid the flesh to crucify. Wouldst live to this world still? Then know, His death to thee is barren show. What profit that He loosed and broke All bonds, if ye in league remain With earth? Who weareth Satan's yoke Shall call Him Master but in vain. Count ye the soul for reconciled, Yet slave to earth, by sin defiled? What profits it that He is risen, If dead in sins thou yet dost lie? If yet thou cleavest to thy prison, What profit that He dwells on high? His triumph will avail thee nought If thou hast ne'er the battle fought. Then live and suffer, do and bear, As Christ thy pattern here hath done, And seek His innocence to wear, That he may count thee of His own. Who loveth Christ cares but to win New triumphs o'er the world of sin.

Oh would I had a thousand tongues

Author: Mentzer; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.10.10 Appears in 10 hymnals Lyrics: Oh would I had a thousand tongues, To sound Thy praise o'er land and sea! Oh! rich and sweet should be my songs, Of all my God has done for me! With thankfulness my heart must often swell, But mortal lips Thy praises faintly tell. Oh that my voice could far resound Up to yon stars that o'er me shine! Would that my blood for joy might bound Through every vein while life is mine! Would that each pulse were gratitude, each breath A song to Him who keeps me safe from death! O all ye powers of soul and mind, Arise, keep silence thus no more; Put forth your strength, and ye shall find Your noblest work is to adore. O soul and body, make ye pure and meet, With heartfelt praise your God and Lord to greet. Ye little leaves so fresh and green, That dance for joy in summer air, Ye slender grasses, bright and keen, Ye flowers so wondrous sweet and fair; Ye only for your Maker's glory live, Help me, for all His love, meet praise to give. O all ye living things that throng With breath and motion earth and sky, Be ye companions in my song, Help me to raise His praises high; For my unaided powers are far too weak The glories of His mighty works to speak. And first, O Father, praise to Thee For all I am and all I have, It was Thy merciful decree That all those blessings richly gave, Which o'er the earth are scattered far and near, To help and gladden us who sojourn here. And, dearest Jesus, blest be Thou, Whose heart with pity overflows, Thou rich in help! who deign'dst to bow To earth, and taste her keenest woes; Thy death has burst my bonds and set me free, Has made me Thine; henceforth I cling to Thee. Nor less to Thee, O Holy Ghost, Be everlasting honours paid, For all Thy comfort, Lord, and most That I a child of life am made By Thy deep love; my good deeds are not mine, Thou workest them through me, O Light Divine. Yes, Lord, through all my changing days, With each new scene afresh I mark How wondrously Thou guid'st my ways, Where all seems troubled, wilder'd, dark; When dangers thicken fast, and hopes depart, Thy light beams comfort on my sinking heart. Shall I not then be filled with joy, Shall I not praise Thee evermore? Triumphant songs my lips employ, E'en when my cup of woe runs o'er; Nay, though the heavens should vanish as a scroll, Nothing shall shake or daunt my trusting soul. But of Thy goodness will I sing As long as I have life and breath, Offerings of thanks I'll daily bring Until my heart is still in death; And when at last my lips grow pale and cold, Yet in my sighs Thy praises shall be told. Father, do Thou in mercy deign To listen to my earthly lays; Once shall I learn a nobler strain, Where angels ever hymn Thy praise, There in the radiant choir I too shall sing Loud hallelujahs to my glorious Kings.

A sure stronghold our God is He

Author: Luther; William Gaskell Meter: 8.7.8.7.6.6.6.6.7 Appears in 5 hymnals Lyrics: A sure stronghold our God is He, A trusty shield and weapon; Our help He'll be and set us free From every ill can happen. That old malicious foe Intends us deadly woe; Armed with the strength of hell And deepest craft as well, On earth is not his fellow. Through our own force we nothing can, Straight were we lost forever; But for us fights the proper Man, By God sent to deliver. Ask ye who this may be? Christ Jesus named is He, Of Sabaoth the Lord; Sole God to be adored; 'Tis he must win the battle. And were the world with devils filled, All eager to devour us, Our souls to fear should little yield, They cannot overpower us. Their dreaded Prince no more Can harm us as of yore; Look grim as e'er he may, Doomed is his ancient sway; A word can overthrow him. Still shall they leave that Word His might, And yet no thanks shall merit; Still is He with us in the fight, By His good gifts and Spirit. E'en should they take our life, Goods, honour, children, wife— Though all of these be gone, Yet nothing have they won, God's kingdom ours abideth!

How blest to all Thy followers, Lord, the road

Author: Gottfried Arnold, 1666-1714; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 10.10.10.10 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: How blest to all Thy followers, Lord, the road By which Thou lead'st them on, yet oft how strange! But Thou in all dost seek our highest good, For Truth were true no longer, couldst Thou change. Though crooked seem the paths, yet are they straight, By which Thou draw'st Thy children up to Thee, And passing wonders by the way they see, And learn at last to own Thee wise and great. No human laws can bind Thy Spirit, Lord, That reason or opinion frame for us; The knot of doubt is severed by Thy sword, Or falls unravelled if Thou willest thus. The strongest bonds are weak to Thee, O God, All sinks and fails that would Thy course oppose; Thy lightest word can quell Thy stoutest foes, And desert paths are by Thy footsteps trod. What human prudence fondly strives to bind, Thy wisdom sunders far as east to west; Who long beneath the yoke of man have pined, Thy hand exalteth high above the rest. The world would scatter, Thou dost union give; She breaks, Thou buildest; what she builds is made A ruined heap; her light is nought but shade; Her dead Thy Spirit calls to rise and live. Is there an act our reason would applaud? Lo! in Thy book hast Thou the example given; But him whom none as wise and pious laud, Thou often lead'st in secret up to Heaven, As Thou didst leave the Pharisee, to go And eat with sinners whom all else forsook. Who can search out Thy purposes, or look Into the abyss of wisdom whence they flow? Our all, O God, is nothing in Thine eyes, Our nothing Thou regardest oft with love; Glory and pomp of words Thou dost not prize, Thy impulse only gives them power to move. Thy noblest works awaken not man's praise, For they are hidden, and he blindly turns Away, nor though he see, their light discerns, Too gross his sense, too keen their dazzling rays. O Ruler! We would bless Thee and adore, At whose command we live or turn to dust; When Thou dost give us of Thy wisdom's store, We see how true Thy care, and learn to trust. Thy wisdom plays with us as with a child, Who playing learns his Father loves him well; 'Tis love that brings Thee down with man to dwell, Love guides our faltering footsteps through the wild. Now seems to us o'er harsh and strict Thy school, Now dost Thou greet us mild and tenderly, Now when our wilder passions break Thy rule, Thy judgments fright us back again to Thee. With downcast eyes we seek Thy face again, Thou kissest us, we promise fair amends, Once more Thy Spirit rest and pardon sends, And curbs our passions with a stronger rein. Thou know'st, O Father, all our weakness well, Our impotence, our foolishness of mind; Almost a passing glance may serve to tell How weak are we, how ignorant, how blind, And so Thou comest with Thy help and stay, A father's rule, a mother's love are Thine; The lamb, on whom none else discern Thy sign, Thou carriest in Thy bosom day by day. The common ways are trodden not of Thee, Thy steps are seldom traced by mortal eyes, Yet art Thou near us, and unseen, dost see All hopes and wishes that within us rise. The bright reflection of Thy inner thought Is day by day before our eyes outspread; Who thinks he quickest hath Thy meaning read, Is oft another deeper lesson taught. O Eye, whose glance no falsehood can endure, Grant me to wisely judge, and well discern Nature from grace--Thy Light serene and pure From grosser fires that in and round me burn. Let no strange fire be kindled on the shrine Within my heart, lest I should madly bring The hated offering unto Thee, O King. Ah, blest the soul whose light is born of Thine! When reason contradicts Thy law, or climbs So high, she weeneth to know more than Thou, Break down her confidence, great God, betimes, And teach her lowly at Thy feet to bow. Nor let my proud heart dictate, Lord, to Thee, But tame the wayward will that seeks its own, And wake the love that clings to Thee alone, And takes Thy judgments in humility. Absorb my will in Thine; support and bear Onward in loving arms Thy timid child; Thy Spirit's voice dispels all doubt, all fear, And quells the passions erst so fierce and wild. Thou art mine All, since that Thy Son is mine; Oh let Thy Spirit work with power in me, With strong desire I thirst, I pant for Thee, Oh joy whene'er Thy glories round me shine! So shall the creature ever serve me here, Nor angels blush to bear me company; The perfect spirits to Thy throne most near, They are my brethren, waiting there for me; And oft my spirit joys to meet a heart, That loveth Thee and me and every saint. Is aught then left can make me sad and faint? Come, Fount of Joy! vain sorrows, all depart!

Let who will in thee rejoice

Author: Johann Franck; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.7.7.7 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Let who will in thee rejoice, O thou fair and wondrous earth! Ever anguished sorrow's voice Pierces through thy seeming mirth; Let thy vain delights be given Unto them who love not Heaven, My desire is fixed on Thee, Jesus, dearest far to me! Weary souls with toil outworn, Drooping 'neath the glaring light, Wish that soon the coming morn Might be quenched again in night, That their toils might find a close In a soft and deep repose; I but wish to rest in Thee, Jesus, dearest far to me! Others dare the treacherous wave, Hidden rock and shifting wind— Storm and danger let them brave, Earthly good or wealth to find; Faith shall wing my upward flight Far above yon starry height, Till I find myself with Thee, Jesus, dearest Friend to me! Many a time ere now I said, Many a time again shall say, Would to God that I were dead, Would that in my grave I lay! Rest were mine, and sweet my lot Where the body hindereth not, And the soul can ever be, Jesus, dearest Lord, with Thee! Come, O Death, thou twin of Sleep, Lead me hence,--I pray thee come, Loose my rudder, through the deep Guide my vessel safely home. Thy approach who will may fly, 'Twere a joy to me to die, Death but opes the gates to Thee, Jesus, dearest Friend to me! Would that I today might leave This my earthly prison here, And my crown of joy receive Waiting me in yon bright sphere! In that home of joy, where dwell Hosts of angels, would I tell How the Godhead shines in Thee, Jesus, dearest Lord to me! But not yet the gates of gold I may see nor enter in, Nor the heavenly fields behold, But must sit and mourning spin Life's dark thread on earth below; Let my thoughts then hourly go Whither I myself would be, Jesus, dearest Lord, with Thee!

One thing is needful! Let me deem

Author: Schröder; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.10.10.10.10 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: One thing is needful! Let me deem Aright of that whereof He spoke; All else, how sweet soe'er it seem, Is but in truth a heavy yoke, 'Neath which the toiling spirit frets and pants, Yet never finds the happiness it wants: This one can make amends, whate'er I miss, Who hath it finds in all his joy through this! My soul, wouldst thou this one thing find? Seek not amid created things; Leave what is earthly far behind, O'er Nature heavenward stretch thy wings, Where God and man are One, in whom appear All truth and fulness, thou hast found it here,— The better part, the One thing needful He, My One, my All, my Joy, who saveth me. As Mary once devoutly sought The eternal truth, the better part, And sat, enwrapt in holy thought, At Jesu's feet with burning heart, For nought else caring, yearning for the word That should be spoken by her Friend, her Lord, Losing her All in Him, His word believing, And through the One all things again receiving: Even so is all my heart's desire Fixed, dearest Lord, on Thee alone; Oh make me true and draw me nigher, And make Thyself, O Christ, my own. Though many turn aside to join the crowd, To follow Thee in love my heart is vowed, Thy word is life and spirit, whither go? What joy is there in Thee we cannot know? All perfect wisdom lies in Thee As in its primal hidden source; Oh let my will submissive be, And hold henceforth its even course, Controlled by truth and meekness, for high Heaven To lowly simple hearts hath wisdom given; Who knoweth Christ aright, and in Him lives, Hath won the highest prize that wisdom gives. Oh that my soul from sleep might wake, And ever, Lord, Thine image bear! Thee for my portion I will take, Thy holiness Thou bidd'st us share, Whate'er we need for God-like walk and life Is given to us in Thee; oh end this strife, And free me from the love of passing things, To know alone the life from Thee that springs! What can I ask for more? Behold Thy mercy is a very flood; I know that Thou hast passed of old Into the Holiest through Thy blood, And there redeemed for ever those who lay Beneath the rule of Satan; now are they Made free by Thee, who erst were slaves and weak, And childlike hearts the name of Father speak. Deep joy and peace and holy calm Fill my once restless spirit now; O'er verdant pastures free from harm, She follows Thee, her shepherd Thou; Whate'er rejoices or consoles us here, Is not so sweet as feeling Thou art near; This One is needful, but all else is dross, Let me win Christ, all other gain is loss.

Redeemer of the nations, come!

Author: Johann Franck; St. Ambrose; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Redeemer of the nations, come! Ransom of earth, here make Thy home! Bright Sun, oh dart Thy flame to earth, For so shall God in Christ have birth! Thou comest from Thy kingly throne, O Son of God, the Virgin's Son! Thou Hero of a twofold race, Dost walk in might earth's darkest place. Thou stoopest once to suffer here, And risest o'er the starry sphere; Hell's gates at Thy descent were riven, Thy ascent is to highest Heaven. One with the Father! Prince of might! O'er nature's realm assert Thy right, Our sickly bodies pine to know Thy heavenly strength, Thy living glow. How bright Thy lowly manger beams! Down earth's dark vale its glory streams, The splendour of Thy natal night Shines through all Time in deathless light. Text Sources: Veni, Redemptor gentium

Follow me, in me ye live

Author: Rist; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.7.7.7 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Follow me, in me ye live, What ye ask I freely give, Only heed ye lest ye stray, Follow me, the Living Way; Follow me with all your hearts, I will ward off sorrow's darts; Learn from Christ your Lord to be Rich in meek humility. Yea, Lord, meet it is indeed We should all thy bidding heed; Who in fear of this earth's blame, Counts Thy lowly yoke a shame, To Thy name, Lord, hath no right, Is no Christian, in Thy sight. Ah too well I know that we, Hear on earth, should follow Thee. Where is strength, Lord, to fulfil, Glad at heart, Thy works and will, Following on where Thou hast trod? All too weak am I, O God; If awhile Thy paths I keep, Soon I pine for rest and sleep; E'en to love Thee, Lord, aright, Passeth far my feeble might. Yet I will not turn from Thee, Yet my joy in Christ shall be; Help me, make me strong and bold, Firm and fast Thy grace to hold; This world and her lusts I leave, Only to my Lord I cleave; All their promises are lies, But who follows Thee is wise. Thou hast gone before us, Lord, Not with anger, strife, or sword, Not with kingly pomp and pride, But with mercy at Thy side. Moved by wondrous love divine For our life Thou gavest Thine, And Thy precious outpoured blood, Won for us the highest good. Let us follow in such sort, Christ-like every deed and thought, That Thy love most true and kind All our hearts henceforth may bind; None may look behind him now, Who to Christ hath pledged his vow; Jesus leads, no longer stand, Follow me, is His command. Draw me up, my God, from hence, Raise me high o'er earth and sense, That I lose not Thee from sight, Nor in life nor death, my Light! In my soul's most deep recess Let me cherish holiness, Not for show or human praise, But for Thy sake, all my days. Grant me, Lord, my heart's desire, So my course to run nor tire, That my practised soul may prove What Thy meekness, what Thy love. Grant me here to trust Thy grace, There with joy to see Thy face, This in time my portion be, That through all eternity!

Light of the Gentile world!

Author: Johann Franck; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 6.6.8.6 Appears in 37 hymnals Lyrics: Light of the Gentile world! Thy people's joy and love! Drawn by Thy Spirit we are come Thy presence, Lord, to prove. Within Thy temple walls We wait with earnest mind, As Simeon waited long of old His Saviour God to find. Thou wilt be found of us, O Lord, in every place, Where Thou hast promised faithfully We should behold Thy face. Thou yet dost suffer us, Who oft are gathered here, To bear Thee in the arms of faith As once that aged seer. Be Thou our bliss, our light Shining 'mid pain and loss, Our Sun of strength in time of fear, The glory round our cross; A glow in sinking hearts, A sunbeam in distress, Physician, nurse, in sickness' hours, In death our happiness. Oh let us, Lord, prevail With Simeon at the last; May we take up his dying song When life is waning fast! "Let me depart in peace, Since that mine aged eyes Have seen the Saviour here on earth, Have seen His day arise." Yes, with the eye of faith My Jesus I behold; No foe can rob me of my Lord, Though fierce his threats and bold. I dwell within Thy heart, Thou dost in mine abide, Not sorrow, pain nor death itself, Can tear me from Thy side.

Yes, there remaineth yet a rest!

Author: Kunth; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8.8 Appears in 9 hymnals Lyrics: Yes, there remaineth yet a rest! Arise, sad heart, who now dost pine, By heavy care and pain opprest, On whom no sun of joy can shine; Look to the Lamb! in yon bright fields Thou'lt know the joy His presence yields; Cast off thy load and thither haste; Soon shalt thou fight and bleed no more, Soon, soon thy weary course be o'er, And deep the rest thou then shalt taste: The rest appointed thee of God, The rest that nought shall break or move, That ere this earth by man was trod Was set apart for thee by Love. Our Saviour gave His life to win This rest for thee; oh enter in! Here how His voice sounds far and wide: Ye weary souls, no more delay, Nor loiter faithless by the way, Here in my peace and rest abide! Ye heavy-laden, come to Him! Ye who are bent with many a load, Come from your prisons drear and dim, Toil not thus sadly on your road! Ye've borne the burden of the day, And hear ye not your Saviour say, I am your refuge and your rest? His children ye, of heavenly birth, Howe'er may rage sin, hell, or earth, Here are ye safe, here calmly blest. Yonder in joy the sheaves we bring, Whose seed was sown on earth in tears; There in our Father's house we sing The song too sweet for mortal ears. Sorrow and sighing all are past, And pain and death are fled at last, There with the Lamb of God we dwell, He leads us to the crystal river, He wipes away all tears for ever; What there is ours no tongue can tell. Hunger nor thirst can pain us there, The time of recompense is come, Nor cold nor scorching heat we bear, Safe sheltered in our Saviour's home. The Lamb is in the midst; and those Who followed Him through shame and woes, Are crowned with honour, joy, and peace. The dry bones gather life again, One Sabbath over all shall reign, Wherein all toil and labour cease. There is untroubled calm and light, No gnawing care shall mar our rest; Ye weary, heed this word aright, Come, lean upon your Saviour's breast. Fain would I linger here no more, Fain to yon happier world upsoar, And join that bright expectant band. Oh raise, my soul, the joyful song That rings through yon triumphant throng; Thy perfect rest is nigh at hand.

Yea my spirit fain would sink

Author: Winkler Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.7 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Yea my spirit fain would sink In Thy heart and hands, my God, Waiting till Thou show the end Of the ways she here hath trod; Stripped of self, how calm her rest On her loving Father's breast! And my soul repineth not, Well content whate'er befall; Murmurs, wishes, of self-will, They are slain and vanquished all, Restless thoughts, that fret and crave, Slumber in her Saviour's grave. And my soul is free from care, For her thoughts from all things cease That can pierce like sharpest thorns Wounding sore the inner peace. He who made her careth well, She but seeks in peace to dwell. And my soul despaireth not, Loving God amid her woe; Grief that wrings and breaks the heart Only they who hate Him know: They who love Him still possess Comfort in their worst distress. And my soul complaineth not, For she knows not pain or fear, Clinging to her God in faith, Trusting though He slay her here. 'Tis when flesh and blood repine, Son of joy, Thou canst not shine. Thus my soul before her God Lieth still, nor speaketh more, Conqueror thus o'er pain and wrong, That once smote her to the core; Like a silent ocean, bright With her God's great praise and light.

Shall I not sing praise to Thee

Author: Paul Gerhardt; Catherine Winkworth Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7 Appears in 6 hymnals Lyrics: Shall I not sing praise to Thee, Shall I not give thanks, O Lord? Since for us in all I see How Thou keepest watch and ward; How the truest tenderest love Ever fills Thy heart, my God, Helping, cheering, on their road, All who in Thy service move. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. As the eagle o'er her nest Spreads her sheltering wings abroad, So from all that would molest, Doth Thine arm defend me, Lord; From my youth up e'en till now Of the being Thou didst give, And the earthly life I live, Faithful Guardian still wert Thou. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. Nay, He kept not back His Son, But hath given Him for our good, And our safety He hath won By the shedding of His blood. O Thou fathomless abyss! My weak powers but strive in vain, Knowledge of Thy depths to gain, Man knows not such love as this. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. And His Spirit, blessed Guide, In His holy Word doth teach, How on earth we may abide, So that heaven at last we reach; Every longing heart doth fill With the pure light of faith, That can break the bonds of death, And control the powers of ill. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. Truly hath He cared indeed For my soul's health, and no less If my body suffer need, Will He help in my distress. When my strength and courage fail, When my powers can do no more, Doth my God such strength outpour, That I rise up and prevail. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. All the hosts of heaven and earth, Hath He placed at my command, Nowhere is there lack or dearth, But I find in sea and land All things ordered for my wants, Living things in fields and woods, On the heights or in the floods, And the earth brings forth her plants. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. When I sleep my Guardian wakes, And revives my wearied mind; Every morning on me breaks With some mark of love most kind; Had my God not stood my Friend, Had His countenance not been Here my guide, I had not seen Many a trial reach its end. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. Often hath my crafty Foe Threatened to bring down on me Many a sore and heavy woe, From which yet my life is free; For the angel whom God sends, Wards off every threatened hurt, Every evil doth avert That mine Enemy intends. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. As a father ne'er withdraws From a child his all of love, Though it often break his laws, Though it careless, wilful, prove: Even so my loving Lord Doth my faults with pity see, With His rod He chastens me, Not avenging with His sword. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. When His strokes upon me light, Bitterly I feel their smart, Yet are they, if seen aright, Tokens that my Father's heart Yearns to bring me back again Through these crosses to His fold, From the world that fain would hold Soul and body in its chain. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. All my life I still have found, And I will forget it never, Every sorrow hath its bound, And no cross endures for ever. After all the winter's snows Comes sweet summer back again, Patient souls ne'er wait in vain, Joy is given for all their woes. All things else have but their day, God's love only lasts for aye. Since then neither change nor end In Thy love can e'er have place, Father! I beseech Thee send Unto me Thy loving grace. Help Thy feeble child, and give Strength to serve Thee day and night, Loving Thee with all my might, While on earth I yet must live; So shall I when Time is o'er, Praise and love Thee evermore.

Praise and thanks to Thee be sung

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Rist Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: Praise and thanks to Thee be sung, Mighty God, in sweetest tone! Lo! from every land and tongue, Nations gather round Thy Throne, Praising Thee, that Thou dost send, Daily from Thy Heaven above, Angel-messengers of love, Who Thy threatened Church defend, Who can offer worthily, Lord of angels, praise to Thee! 'Tis your office, Spirits bright, still to guard us night and day, And before your heavenly might, Powers of darkness flee away; Ever doth your unseen host Camp around us, and avert All that seeks to do us hurt, Curling Satan's malice most. Lord, who then can worthily For such goodness honour Thee! And ye come on ready wing, When we drift toward sheer despair, Seeing nought where we might cling, Suddenly, lo, ye are there! And the wearied heart grows strong, As an angel strengthened Him, Fainting in the garden dim, 'Neath the world's vast woe and wrong. Lord, who then can worthily For such mercy honour Thee! Right and seemly is it then We should glory, that our God Hath such honour put on men, That He sends o'er earth abroad Princes of the realm above, Champions, who by day and night, Shield us with His holy might; Come, behold how great His love! Lord, who then can worthily For such favour honour Thee! Praise and thanks to Thee be sung, Mighty God, in sweetest tone. Lo! from every land and tongue, Nations gather round Thy throne, Praising Thee that Thou dost send, Hourly from Thy glorious sphere, Angels down to help us here, And Thy threatened Church defend. Let us henceforth worthily, Lord of angels, honour Thee.

Who are those before God's throne

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Schenk, d. 1727 Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.7 Appears in 10 hymnals Lyrics: Who are those before God's throne, What the crownèd host I see? As the sky with stars thick-strown Is their shining company: Hallelujahs, hark, they sing, Solemn praise to God they bring. Who are those that in their hands Bear aloft the conqueror's palm, As one o'er his foeman stands, Fallen beneath his mighty arm? What the war and what the strife, Whence came such victorious life? Who are those arrayed in light, Clothed in righteousness divine, Wearing robes most pure and white, That unstained shall ever shine, That can nevermore decay; Whence came all this bright array? They are those who, strong in faith, Battled for the mighty God; Conquerors o'er the world and death, Following not Sin's crowded road; Through the Lamb who once was slain, Did they such high victory gain. They are those who much have borne, Trial, sorrow, pain, and care, Who have wrestled night and morn With the mighty God in prayer; Now their strife hath found its close, God hath turned away their woes. They are branches of that Stem, Who hath our Salvation been, In the blood He shed for them, Have they made their raiment clean; Hence they wear such radiant dress, Clad in spotless holiness. They are those who hourly here Served as priests before their Lord, Offering up with gladsome cheer Soul and body at His word. Now within the Holy Place, They behold Him face to face. As the harts at noonday pant For the river fresh and clear, Did they ofttimes long and faint For the Living Fountain here. Now their thirst is quenched, they dwell With the Lord they loved so well. Thitherwards I stretch my hands; O Lord Jesus, day by day, In Thy house in these strange lands, Compassed round with foes, I pray, Let me sink not in the war, Drive for me my foes afar. Cast my lot in earth and heaven With Thy saints made like to Thee, Let my bonds be also riven, Make Thy child who loves Thee free; Near the throne where Thou dost shine, May a place at last be mine! Ah! that bliss can ne'er be told, When with all that army bright, Thee, my Sun, I shall behold, Shining star-like, with Thy light. Amen! Thanks be brought to Thee, Praise through all eternity.

God who madest earth and heaven

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Heinrich Albert Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.8 Appears in 40 hymnals Lyrics: God who madest earth and heaven, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Who the day and night has given, Sun and moon and starry host, All things wake at Thy command, Held in being by Thy hand: God, I thank Thee from my heart, That through all the livelong night, Thou hast kept me safe apart From all danger, pain, affright, And the cunning of my foe Hath not wrought my overthrow. Let the night of sin depart, As this earthly night hath fled; Jesus, take me to Thy heart, In the blood that Thou hast shed Is my help and hope alone, For the evil I have done. Help me as each morn shall break, In the Spirit to arise, Let my soul from sin awake, That when o'er the aged skies, Shall the morn of Doom appear, I may see it free from fear. Ever lead me, ever guide All my wanderings by Thy Word; As Thou hast been, still abide My defence, my refuge, Lord. Never safe except with Thee, Ever Thou my Guardian be! Mighty God, I now commend Soul and body unto Thee, All the powers that Thou dost lend, By Thy hand directed be; Thou my boast, my strength divine, Keep me with Thee, I am Thine. Let Thine angel guard my soul From the Evil One's dark power, All his thousand wiles control, Warning, guiding me each hour, Till my final rest be come, And Thine angel bear me home.

The golden sunbeams with their joyous gleams

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Paul Gerhardt Meter: Irregular Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: The golden sunbeams with their joyous gleams, Are kindling o'er earth, her life and mirth, Shedding forth lovely and heart-cheering light; Through the dark hours' chill I lay silent and still, But risen at length to gladness and strength, I gaze on the heavens all glowing and bright. Mine eyes now behold Thy works, that of old And ever are telling to all men here dwelling, How great is Thy glory, how wondrous Thy power; They tell of the home where the faithful shall come, Who depart to that peace that can change not or cease, From earth where all passeth as passes the hour. O come let us raise our voices, and praise The Maker of all, at His feet let us fall, Offering to Him again all He hath given, The best that is ours, our hearts and our powers; Glad songs that we sing Him, thanks that we bring Him, These are the incense most grateful to Heaven. Evening and morning thus ever he cares for us, Blessing, renewing, warding off ruin, These are His works, thus His goodness we prove; When we are sleeping, watch He is keeping, Whe we arise, He gladdens our eyes With the sunshine of mercy, the glow of His love. < table class="verse"> All passeth away, but God liveth aye, And changeth in nought; eternal His thought, His Word and His Will are steadfast and sure; Never His grace nor His mercy decays, It heals the sad heart from its deadliest smart, Giving it life that shall ever endure. God, Thou my crown! forgiving look down, And hide from Thy face through Thy pitying grace, All my transgressions against Thy command; Henceforth oh rule me, guide me and school me, As Thou seest fit; my ways I commit All to Thy pleasure, Thy merciful hand. Crosses and sorrow may end with the morrow, Stormiest seas shall sink into peace, The wild winds are hushed, and the sunshine returns; So fulness of rest, and the calm of the blest, Are waiting me there, in that garden most fair, That home for which daily my spirit here yearns.

Come, my soul, awake, 'tis morning

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Von Canitz, 1654-1699 Meter: 8.4.7.8.4.7 Appears in 5 hymnals Lyrics: Come, my soul, awake, 'tis morning, Day is dawning O'er the earth, arise and pray; Come, to Him who made this splendour, Thou must render All thy feeble powers can pay. From the stars now learn thy duty, See their beauty Paling in the golden air; So God's light thy mists should banish, Thus should vanish What to darkened sense seemed fair. See how everything that liveth, Gladly striveth On the pleasand light to gaze; Stirs with joy each thing that groweth, As it knoweth Darkness smitten by these rays. Soul, thy incense also proffer; Thou shouldst offer Praise to Him, who from thy head Kept afar the storms of sorrow, And the morrow Finds the night in peace hath fled. Bid Him bless what thou art doing, If pursuing Some good aim; but if there lurks Ill intent in thine endeavour, May He ever Thwart and turn thee from Thy works. Think that he, the All-discerning, Knows each turning Of thy path, each sinful stain; Nay what shame would fain gloss over, Can discover; All thou dost to Him is plain. Bound unto the flying hours Are our powers; Earth's vain good floats down their wave, That thy ship, my soul, is hasting, Never resting, To its haven in the grave. Pray that when thy life is closing, Calm reposing, Thou mayst die, and not in pain; That, the night of death departed, Thou glad-hearted, Mayst behold the Sun again. From God's glances shrink thou never, Meet them ever; Who submits him to His grace, Finds that earth no sunshine knoweth Such as gloweth O'er his pathway all his days. Wakenest thou again to sorrow, Oh! then borrow Strength from Him, whose sun-like might On the mountain-summit tarries, And yet carries To the vales their mirth and light. Round the gifts He on thee showers, Fiery towers Will he set, be not afraid, Thou shalt dwell 'mid angel legions, In the regions Satan's self dares not invade.

Dayspring of eternity!

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Von Rosenroth Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.3 Appears in 7 hymnals Lyrics: Dayspring of eternity! Dawn on us this morning-tide. Light from Light's exhaustless sea, Now no more Thy radience hide, But dispel with glorious might All our night. Let the morning dew of love On our sleeping conscience rain; Gentle comfort from above Flow through life's long parch'd plain; Water daily us Thy flock From the rock. Let the glow of love destroy Cold obedience faintly given; Wake our hearts to strength and joy with the flushing eastern heaven, Let us truly rise ere yet Life hath set. Brightest Star of eastern skies, Let that final morn appear, When our bodies too shall rise Free from all that pained them here, Strong their joyful course to run As the sun. To yon world be Thou our light, O Thou glorious Sun of grace; Lead us through the tearful night, To yon fair and blessed place, Where to joy that never dies We shall rise.

Once more from rest I rise again

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Anton Ulrich, Duke of Brunswick Meter: 8.8.6.8.8.6.8.8 Appears in 3 hymnals Lyrics: Once more from rest I rise again, To greet a day of toil and pain, My Heaven-appointed lot; Unknowing what new grief may be With this new day in store for me, But it shall harm me not I know full well; my loving God Will send me not a hurtful load. My burden every day is new, But every day my God is true, And all my cares hath borne; Ere eventide can no man know What Day shall bring of joy or woe, And though it seem each morn To some new path of suffering call, With God I can surmount it all. Since this I know, oh wherefore sink, My faithless heart? And why thus shrink To take thy load again? Bear what thou canst, God bears thy lot, The Lord of All, He stumbleth not; Pure blessing shalt thou gain, If thou with Him right onward go, Nor fear'st to tread the path of woe. My heart grows strong, all terrors fly Whene'er I feel Thy love Most High, Doth compass me around; But would I have Thee for my shield, No more to sin my soul must yield, But in Thy ways be found; Thou, God, wilt never walk my way If from Thy paths my feet should stray. But let me feel Thou guidest me, And humbly I will follow Thee, Lord, make me true and pure; Then strong and dauntless in Thy might Against a world of sin I'll fight, And know my triumph sure; Then bravely I can meet each day, And fear it not, come what come may. My God and Lord, I cast on Thee The load that weighs too sore on me, The yoke 'neath which I bow; I lay my rank, my high command, In my Almighty Father's hand, Well knowing, Lord, that Thou Wilt ne'er withdraw it, for Thy truth Hath let me onward from my youth. To Thee my kindred I commend, For they are safe if Thou defend, Oh guard them round about; My sinful soul would shelter take In Jesu's bosom, for whose sake Thou wilt not cast her out; When soul and body part at last, Then all myself on Thee I cast.

The happy sunshine all is gone

Author: Catherine Winkworth; N. Hermann Meter: 8.8.8.8 Appears in 16 hymnals Lyrics: The happy sunshine all is gone, The gloomy night comes swiftly on; But shine Thou still, O Christ our Light, Nor let us lose ourselves in night. We thank Thee, Father, that this day Thy angels watched around our way, And free from harm and vexing fear, Have led us on in safety here. Lord, have we angered Thee today, Remember not our sins, we pray, But let Thy mercy o'er them sweep, And give us calm and restful sleep. Thy angels guard our sleeping hours, And keep afar all evil Powers; And Thou all pain and mischief ward From soul and body, faithful Lord!

Now all the woods are sleeping

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Paul Gerhardt Meter: 7.7.8.7.7.8 Appears in 25 hymnals Lyrics: Now all the woods are sleeping, And night and stillness creeping O'er field and city, man and beast; But thou, my heart, awake thee, To prayer awhile betake thee, And praise thy Maker ere thou rest. O Sun, where art thou vanished? The Night thy reign hath banished, Thy ancient foe, the Night. Farewell, a brighter glory My Jesus sheddeth o'er me, All clear within me shines His light. The last faint beam is going, The golden stars are glowing In yonder dark-blue deep; And such the glory given When called of God to heaven, On earth no more we pine and weep. The body hastes to slumber, These garments now but cumber; And as I lay them by I ponder how the spirit Puts off the flesh t'inherit A shining robe with Christ on high. Now thought and labour ceases, For Night the tired releases And bids sweet rest begin: My heart, there comes a morrow Shall set thee free from sorrow And all the dreary toil of sin. Ye aching limbs! now rest you, For toil hath sore oppressed you, Lie down my weary head; A sleep shall once o'ertake you From which earth ne'er shall wake you, Within a narrower, colder bed. My heavy eyes are closing, When I lie deep reposing— O soul and body, where are ye? To helpless sleep I yield them, Oh let Thy mercy shield them, Thou sleepless Eye, their guardian be! My Jesus, stay Thou by me, And let no foe come nigh me, Safe sheltered by Thy wing; But would the foe alarm me, O let him never harm me, But still Thine angels round me sing! My loved ones, rest securely, From every peril surely Our God will guard your heads; And happy slumbers send you, And bid His hosts attend you, And golden-armed watch o'er your beds.

The day expires

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Freylinghausen Meter: 4.4.6.7.4 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: The day expires; My soul desires And pants to see that day, When the vexing cares of earth Shall be done away. The night is here; Oh! be Thou near, Christ, make it light within; Drive away from out my heart All the night of sin. The sunbeams pale, And flee and fail; O uncreated Sun! Let Thy light now shine on us, Then our joy were won. All things that move Below, above, Now with sleep are blest, Work Thou still in me, while I Calmly in Thee rest. When shall the sway Of night and day Cease to rule man thus? When that brightest day of days Once shall dawn on us. Ah! never then Her light again Jerusalem shall miss, For the Lamb shall be her Light, Filling her with bliss. Oh were I there! Where all the air With lovely sounds is ringing; Where the saints Thee, Holy Lord, Evermore are singing! Lord Jesus, Thou My rest art now, Oh help me that I come, Radient with Thy light to shine In Thy glorious home!

The moon hath risen on high

Author: Catherine Winkworth; Claudius Meter: 6.6.8.6.6.8 Appears in 4 hymnals Lyrics: The moon hath risen on high, And in the clear dark sky The golden stars all brightly glow; And black and hushed the woods, While o'er the fields and floods The white mists hover to and fro. How still the earth! how calm! What dear and home-like charm From gentle twilight doth she borrow! Like to some quiet room, Where wrapt in still soft gloom, We sleep away the daylight's sorrow. Look up; the moon tonight Shows us but half her light, And yet we know her round and fair. At other things how oft We in our blindness scoffed, Because we saw not what was there. We haughty sons of men Have but a narrow ken, We are but sinners poor and weak, Yet airy dreams we build, And deem us wise and skilled, And come not nearer what we seek. Thy mercy let us see, Nor find in vanity Our joy; nor trust in what departs; But true and simple grow, And live to Thee below With sunny pure and childlike hearts. Let Death all gently come At last to take us home, And let us meet him fearlessly; And when these bonds are riven, O take us to Thy heaven, Our Lord and God, to dwell with Thee. Now in His name most blest My brethren sink to rest; The wind is cold, chill falls the dew. Spare us, O God, and keep Us safe in quiet sleep, And all the sick and suffering too.

Pages

Export as CSV

User Links

User Links

Discover

Collections

Connect

Search

Collections

Discover

Pages