1 Great Sov'reign, let mine evening
Like holy incense rise!
Assist the off'rings of my tongue
To reach the lofty skies.
2 Through all the dangers of the day
Thy hand was still my guard,
And still to drive my wants away
Thy mercies stood prepared.
3 Perpetual blessings from above
Encompass'd me around,
But, oh! how few returns of love
Hath my Creator found.
4 What have I, done form Him that died
To save my wretched soul?
How are my follies multiplied,
Fast as my minutes roll!
5 Lord, with this guilty heart of mine
To Thy dear cross I flee,
And to Thy grace my soul resign,
To be renew'd by Thee.
Source: Book of Worship (Rev. ed.) #527
Isaac Watts was the son of a schoolmaster, and was born in Southampton, July 17, 1674. He is said to have shown remarkable precocity in childhood, beginning the study of Latin, in his fourth year, and writing respectable verses at the age of seven. At the age of sixteen, he went to London to study in the Academy of the Rev. Thomas Rowe, an Independent minister. In 1698, he became assistant minister of the Independent Church, Berry St., London. In 1702, he became pastor. In 1712, he accepted an invitation to visit Sir Thomas Abney, at his residence of Abney Park, and at Sir Thomas' pressing request, made it his home for the remainder of his life. It was a residence most favourable for his health, and for the prosecution of his literary… Go to person page >
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