As Peter fished all the night

1 As Peter fished all the night,
And toil'd until the morning Light.
His labours they were all for nought,
He drew his net but nothing caught.

2 Such is the case with teachers too,
All they can teach, or say or do--
That cannot cause the world to b'lieve,
Or yet the Gospel truth receive.

3 Except the Lord, their labours bless,
Their labours are, without success;
Their Gospel net is cast in vain,
And they have nothing for their pain.

4 When Jesus manages the case,
And cloath's the word with pow'r and grace;
Then sinners will be made to hear
And feel and know the Saviour near.

5 At his commanding word we cast
Our net, and hope to catch at last!
We preach to men the Gospel word,
And for the blessing trust the Lord.

6 O make us faithful, Lord we pray!
That like true fishermen we may--
In all our office act our part,
And seek thy cause with all our heart.

Source: Church Hymn Book: consisting of newly composed hymns with the addition of hymns and psalms, from other authors, carefully adapted for the use of public worship, and many other occasions (1st ed.) #CVI