__________________________________________________________________

         Title: Olney Hymns
    Creator(s): Newton, John
   Print Basis: London: W. Oliver, 1779
        Rights: Public Domain
     __________________________________________________________________

                                  OLNEY HYMNS,
                                       IN
                                  THREE BOOKS.

   Facsimile of Original Copy

   Two hundred years ago the first edition of the Olney Hymns was
   published, since that time many of the hymns have become well known
   wherever Christianity is practiced. In response to many requests the
   trustees of the Cowper and Newton Museum have brought out this
   facsimile volume of the first edition. This edition is issued to
   celebrate the Bicentenary of the first publication in 1779.

   Published February 15th, 1979
   Reprinted 1984
   ISBN 950 5530 1 8
   Produced and published by
   Arthur Gordon Hugh Osborn
   For and on behalf of
   The Cowper and Newton Museum
   Market Place
   OLNEY
   Buckinghamshire
   England.
   Reproduced by Torr of Silverstone
   Printed by Cheney & Sons Ltd., Banbury
     __________________________________________________________________

                                  OLNEY HYMNS,
                                       IN
                                  THREE BOOKS.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [Price 2s. 6d. bound.]

                                  OLNEY HYMNS,
                                       IN
                                  THREE BOOKS.

   Book I. On select Texts of Scripture.

   Book II. On occasional Subjects.

   Book III. On the Progress and Changes of the Spiritual Life.
     __________________________________________________________________

   --Cantabitis, Arcades, inquit, Montibus haec vestris: foli cantare
   periti Arcades. O mihi tum quam molliter ossa quiescant Vestra meos
   olim si fistula dicat amores! Virgil, Ecl. x:31.

   And they sang as it were a new song before the throne;--and no man
   could learn that song, but the redeemed from the earth. Rev. 14:3.

   As sorrowful--yet always rejoicing, 2 Cor. 6:10.
     __________________________________________________________________

   LONDON:
   Printed and Sold by W. Oliver, No 12, Bartholomew-Close;
   Sold also by J Buckland, No 57, Pater-noster-Row;
   and J. Johnson, No 72, St Paul's Church-yard,
   M DCC LXXIX.
     __________________________________________________________________

PREFACE.

   Copies of a few of these Hymns have already appeared in periodical
   publications, and in some recent collections. I have observed one or
   two of them attributed to persons who certainly had no concern in them,
   but as transcribers. All that have been at different times parted with
   in manuscript are included in the present volume; and (if the
   information were of any great importance) the public may be assured,
   that the whole number were composed by two persons only. The original
   design would not admit of any other association. A desire of promoting
   the faith and comfort of sincere christians, though the principal, was
   not the only motive to this undertaking. It was likewise intended as a
   monument, to perpetuate the remembrance of an intimate and endeared
   friendship. With this pleasing view I entered upon my part, which would
   have been smaller than it is, and the book would have appeared much
   sooner, and in a very different form, if the wise, though mysterious
   providence of GOD, had not seen fit to cross my wishes. We had not
   proceeded far upon our proposed plan, before my dear friend was
   prevented, by a long and affecting indisposition, from affording me any
   farther assistance. My grief and disappointment were great; I hung my
   harp upon the willows, and for some time thought myself determined to
   proceed no farther without him. Yet my mind was afterwards led to
   resume the service. My progress in it, amidst a variety of other
   engagements, has been slow, yet in a course of years the hymns amounted
   to a considerable number: And my deference to the judgment and desires
   of others, has at length overcome the reluctance I long felt to see
   them in print, while I had so few of my friend's hymns to insert in the
   collection. Though it is possible a good judge of composition might be
   able to distinguish those which are his, I have thought it proper to
   preclude a misapplication, by prefixing the letter C to each of them.
   For the rest, I must be responsible. [Note: in the electronic edition,
   each hymn is given a full, specific ascription.]

   There is a style and manner suited to the composition of hymns, which
   may be more successfully, or at least more easily attained by a
   versifier, than by a poet. They should be Hymns, not Odes, if designed
   for public worship, and for the use of plain people. Perspicuity,
   simplicity and ease, should be chiefly attended to; and the imagery and
   coloring of poetry, if admitted at all, should be indulged very
   sparingly and with great judgment. The late Dr. Watts, many of whose
   hymns are admirable patterns in this species of writing, might, as a
   poet, have a right to say, That it cost him some labor to restrain his
   fire, and to accommodate himself to the capacities of common readers.
   But it would not become me to make such a declaration. It behoved me to
   do my best. But though I would not offend readers of taste by a wilful
   coarseness, and negligence, I do not write professedly for them. If the
   LORD whom I serve, has been pleased to favor me with that mediocrity of
   talent, which may qualify me for usefulness to the weak and the poor of
   his flock, without quite disgusting persons of superior discernment, I
   have reason to be satisfied.

   As the workings of the heart of man, and of the Spirit of God, are in
   general the same, in all who are the subjects of grace, I hope most of
   these hymns, being the fruit and expression of my own experience, will
   coincide with the views of real christians of all denominations. But I
   cannot expect that every sentiment I have advanced will be universally
   approved. However, I am not conscious of having written a single line
   with an intention, either to flatter, or to offend any party or person
   upon earth. I have simply declared my own views and feelings, as I
   might have done if I had composed hymns in some of the newly discovered
   islands in the South-Sea, where no person had any knowledge of the name
   of Jesus, but myself. I am a friend of peace, and being deeply
   convinced that no one can profitably understand the great truths and
   doctrines of the gospel, any farther than he is taught of God, I have
   not a wish to obtrude my own tenets upon others, in a way of
   controversy: yet I do not think myself bound to conceal them. Many
   gracious persons (for many such I am persuaded there are) who differ
   from me, more or less, in those points which are called Calvinistic,
   appear desirous that the Calvinists should, for their sakes, studiously
   avoid every expression which they cannot approve. Yet few of them, I
   believe. impose a like restraint upon themselves, but think the
   importance of what they deem to be truth, justifies them in speaking
   their sentiments plainly, and strongly. May I not plead for an equal
   liberty? The views I have received of the doctrines of grace are
   essential to my peace, I could not live comfortably a day or an hour
   without them. I likewise believe, yea, so far as my poor attainments
   warrant me to speak, I know them to be friendly to holiness, and to
   have a direct influence in producing and maintaining a gospel
   conversation, and therefore I must not be ashamed of them.

   The Hymns are distributed into three Books. In the first I have classed
   those which are formed upon select passages of Scripture, and placed
   them in the order of the books of the old and New Testament. The second
   contains occasional Hymns, suited to particular seasons, or suggested
   by particular events or objects. The third Book is miscellaneous,
   comprising a variety of subjects relative to a life of faith in the son
   of God, which have no express reference either to a single text of
   Scripture, or to any determinate season or incident. These are farther
   subdivided into distinct heads. This arrangement is not so accurate but
   that several of the hymns might have been differently disposed. Some
   attention to method may be found convenient, though a logical exactness
   was hardly practicable. As some subjects in the several books are
   nearly co-incident, I have, under the divisions in the third book,
   pointed out those which are similar in the two former. And I have
   likewise here and there in the first and second, made a reference to
   hymns of a like import in the third.

   This publication, which, with my humble prayer to the LORD for his
   blessing upon it, I offer to the service and acceptance of all who love
   the LORD JESUS CHRIST in sincerity, of every name and in every place,
   into whose hands it may come; I more particularly dedicate to my dear
   friends in the parish and neighborhood of Olney, for whose use the
   hymns were originally composed; as a testimony of the sincere love I
   bear them, and as a token of my gratitude to the Lord, and to them, for
   the comfort and satisfaction with which the discharge of my ministry
   among them has been attended.

   The hour is approaching, and at my time of life cannot be very distant,
   when my heart, my pen, and my tongue, will no longer be able to move in
   their service. But I trust, while my heart continues to beat, it will
   feel a warm desire for the prosperity of their souls; and while my hand
   can write, and my tongue speak, it will be the business and the
   pleasure of my life, to aim at promoting their growth and establishment
   in the grace of our God and Savior. To this precious grace I commend
   them, and earnestly entreat them, and all who love his name, to strive
   mightily with their prayers to God for me, that I may be preserved
   faithful to the end, and enabled at last to finish my course with joy.

   Olney, Bucks,

   Feb. 15, 1779

   JOHN NEWTON.
     __________________________________________________________________

                                OLNEY HYMNS, &c.
     __________________________________________________________________

BOOK I.
On select Passages of Scripture.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  GENESIS
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 1

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   ADAM. Gen 3:9


   On man, in his own image made,

   How much did GOD bestow?

   The whole creation homage paid,

   And owned him LORD, below!


   He dwelt in Eden's garden, stored

   With sweets for every sense;

   And there with his descending LORD

   He walked in confidence.


   But O! by sin how quickly changed!

   His honor forfeited,

   His heart, from God and truth, estranged,

   His conscience filled with dread!


   Now from his Maker's voice he flees,

   Which was before his joy:

   And thinks to hide, amidst the trees,

   From an All-seeing eye.


   Compelled to answer to his name,

   With stubbornness and pride

   He cast, on God himself, the blame,

   Nor once for mercy cried.


   But grace, unasked, his heart subdued

   And all his guilt forgave;

   By faith, the promised seed he viewed,

   And felt his pow'r to save.


   Thus we ourselves would justify,

   Though we the Law transgress;

   Like him, unable to deny,

   Unwilling to confess.


   But when by faith the sinner sees

   A pardon bought with blood;

   Then he forsakes his foolish pleas,

   And gladly turns to God.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 1

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   CAIN and ABEL. Gen 4:3-8


   When Adam fell he quickly lost

   God's image, which he once possessed:

   See All our nature since could boast

   In Cain, his first-born Son, expressed!


   The sacrifice the Lord ordained

   In type of the Redeemer's blood,

   Self-righteous reas'ning Cain disdained,

   And thought his own first-fruits as good.


   Yet rage and envy filled his mind,

   When, with a fallen, downcast look,

   He saw his brother favor find,

   Who GOD's appointed method took.


   By Cain's own hand, good Abel died,

   Because the Lord approved his faith;

   And, when his blood for vengeance cried,

   He vainly thought to hide his death.


   Such was the wicked murd'rer Cain,

   And such by nature still are we,

   Until by grace we're born again,

   Malicious, blind and proud, as he.


   Like him the way of grace we slight,

   And in our own devices trust;

   Call evil good, and darkness light,

   And hate and persecute the just.


   The saints, in every age and place,

   Have found this history fulfilled;

   The numbers all our thoughts surpass

   Of Abels, whom the Cains have killed!
   Rom 8:36


   Thus JESUS fell--but O! his blood

   Far better things than Abel's cries:
   Heb 12:24

   Obtains his murd'rers peace with God,

   And gains them mansions in the skies.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 3

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   Walking with GOD. Gen 5:24


   O! for a closer walk with God,

   A calm and heav'nly frame;

   A light to shine upon the road

   That leads me to the Lamb!


   Where is the blessedness I knew

   When first I saw the LORD?

   Where is the soul-refreshing view

   Of JESUS, and his word?


   What peaceful hours I once enjoyed!

   How sweet their memory still!

   But they have left an aching void,

   The world can never fill.


   Return, O holy Dove, return,

   Sweet messenger of rest;

   I hate the sins that made thee mourn,

   And drove thee from my breast.


   The dearest idol I have known,

   Whate'er that idol be;

   Help me to tear it from thy throne,

   And worship only thee.


   So shall my walk be close with God,

   Calm and serene my frame;

   So purer light shall mark the road

   That leads me to the Lamb.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 4

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   Walking with GOD.


   By faith in CHRIST I walk with God,

   With heav'n, my journeys'-end, in view;

   Supported by his staff and rod,
   Ps 23:4

   My road is safe and pleasant too,


   I travel through a desert wide

   Where many round me blindly stray;
   Ps 107:7

   But He vouchsafes to be my guide,

   And will not let me miss my way.


   Though snares and dangers throng my path,

   And earth and hell my course withstand;

   I triumph over all by faith,
   Ps 27:1,2

   Guarded by his Almighty hand.


   The wilderness affords no food,

   But God for my support prepares;

   Provides me every needful good,

   And frees my soul from wants and cares.


   With him sweet converse I maintain,

   Great as he is I dare be free;

   I tell him all my grief and pain,

   And he reveals his love to me.


   Some cordial from his word he brings,

   Whene'er my feeble spirit faints;

   At once my soul revives and sings,

   And yields no more to sad complaints.


   I pity all that worldlings talk

   Of pleasures that will quickly end;

   Be this my choice, O Lord, to walk

   With thee, my Guide, my Guard, my Friend.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 5

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Lot in Sodom.
   Gen 13:10


   How hurtful was the choice of Lot,

   Who took up his abode

   (Because it was a fruitful spot)

   With them who feared not God!


   A pris'ner he was quickly made,

   Bereaved of all his store;

   And, but for Abraham's timely aid,

   He had returned no more.


   Yet still he seemed resolved to stay

   As if it were his rest;

   Although their sins from day to day

   His righteous soul distressed.
   2 Peter 2:8


   Awhile he stayed with anxious mind,

   Exposed to scorn and strife;

   At last he left his all behind,

   And fled to save his life.


   In vain his sons-in-law he warned,

   They thought he told his dreams;

   His daughters too, of them had learned,

   And perished in the flames.


   His wife escaped a little way,

   But died for looking back:

   Does not her case to pilgrims say,

   "Beware of growing slack?"


   Yea; Lot himself could ling'ring stand,

   Though vengeance was in view;

   'Twas mercy plucked him by the hand,

   Or he had perished too.


   The doom of Sodom wilt be ours

   If to the earth we cleave;

   Lord quicken all our drowsy pow'rs,

   To flee to thee and live.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 6

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   JEHOVAH-JIREH,
   The LORD will provide.
   Gen 22:14


   The saints should never be dismayed,

   Nor sink in hopeless fear;

   For when they least expect his aid,

   The Savior will appear.


   This Abraham found, he raised the knife,

   GOD saw, and said, "Forbear;"

   Yon ram shall yield his meaner life,

   Behold the victim there.


   Once David seemed Saul's certain prey,

   But hark! the foe's at hand;
   1Sam 23:27

   Saul turns his arms another way,

   To save th' invaded land.


   When Jonah sunk beneath the wave

   He thought to rise no more;
   Jonah 1:17

   But God prepared a fish to save,

   And bear him to the shore.


   Blest proofs of pow'r and grace divine,

   That meet us in his word!

   May every deep-felt care of mine

   Be trusted with the Lord.


   Wait for his seasonable aid,

   And though it tarry wait:

   The promise may be long-delayed,

   But cannot come too late.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 7

   John Newton

   10,10,11,11

   The LORD will provide.


   Though troubles assail

   And dangers affright,

   Though friends should all fail

   And foes all unite;

   Yet one thing secures us,

   Whatever betide,

   The scripture assures us,

   The Lord will provide.


   The birds without barn

   Or storehouse are fed,

   From them let us learn

   To trust for our bread:

   His saints, what is fitting,

   Shall ne'er he denied,

   So long as 'tis written,

   The Lord will provide.


   We may, like the ships,

   By tempest be tossed

   On perilous deeps,

   But cannot be lost.

   Though Satan enrages

   The wind and the tide,

   The promise engages,

   The Lord will provide.


   His call we obey

   Like Abram of old,

   Not knowing our way,

   But faith makes us bold;

   For though we are strangers

   We have a good Guide,

   And trust in all dangers,

   The Lord will provide.


   When Satan appears

   To stop up our path,

   And fill us with fears,

   We triumph by faith;

   He cannot take from us,

   Though oft he has tried,

   This heart-cheering promise,

   The Lord will provide.


   He tells us we're weak,

   Our hope is in vain,

   The good that we seek

   We ne'er shall obtain,

   But when such suggestions

   Our spirits have plied,

   This answers all questions,

   The Lord will provide.


   No strength of our own,

   Or goodness we claim,

   Yet since we have known

   The Savior's great name;

   In this our strong tower

   For safety we hide,

   The Lord is our power,

   The Lord will provide.


   When life sinks apace

   And death is in view,

   This word of his grace

   Shall comfort us through:

   No fearing or doubting

   With Christ on our side,

   We hope to die shouting,

   The Lord will provide.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 8

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   ESAU
   Gen 25:34; Heb 12:16


   Poor Esau repented too late

   That once he his birth-right despised;

   And sold, for a morsel of meat,

   What could not too highly be prized:

   How great was his anguish when told,

   The blessing he sought to obtain,

   Was gone with the birth-right he sold,

   And none could recall it again!


   He stands as a warning to all,

   Wherever the gospel shall come;

   O Hasten and yield to the call,

   While yet for repentance there's room!

   Your season will quickly be past,

   Then hear and obey it today;

   Lest when you seek mercy at last,

   The Savior should frown you away.


   What is it the world can propose?

   A morsel of meat at the best!

   For this are you willing to lose

   A share in the joys of the blest?

   Its pleasures will speedily end,

   Its favor and praise are but breath;

   And what can its profits befriend

   Your soul in the moment of death?


   If Jesus for these you despise,

   And sin to the Savior prefer;

   In vain your entreaties and cries,

   When summoned to stand at his bar:

   How will you his presence abide?

   What anguish will torture your heart?

   The saints all enthroned by his side,

   And you be compelled to depart.


   Too often, dear Savior, have I

   Preferred some poor trifle to thee;

   How is it thou dost not deny

   The blessing and birth-right to me?

   No better than Esau I am,

   Though pardon and heav'n be mine;

   To me belongs nothing but shame,

   The praise and the glory be thine.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 9

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   Jacob's Ladder
   Gen 28:12


   If the LORD our leader be,

   We may follow without fear;

   East or West, by land or sea,

   Home, with him, is everywhere;

   When from Esau Jacob fled,

   Though his pillow was a stone,

   And the ground his humble bed,

   Yet he was not left alone.


   Kings are often waking kept,

   Racked with cares on beds of state;

   Never king like Jacob slept.

   For he lay at heaven's gate:

   Lo! he saw a ladder reared,

   Reaching to the heav'nly throne;

   At the top the Lord appeared,

   Spake and claimed him for his own.


   "Fear not, Jacob, thou art mine,

   And my presence with thee goes;

   On thy heart my love shall shine,

   And my arm subdue thy foes:

   From my promise comfort take;

   For my help in trouble call;

   Never will I thee forsake,

   'Till I have accomplished all."


   Well does Jacob's ladder suit

   To the gospel throne of grace;

   We are at the ladder's foot,

   Every hour, in every place

   By affirming flesh and blood,

   JESUS heav'n and earth unites;

   We by faith ascend to God,
   2Cor 6:16

   God to dwell with us delights.


   They who know the Savior's name,

   Are for all events prepared

   What can changes do to them,

   Who have such a Guide and Guard?

   Should they traverse earth around,

   To the ladder still they come;

   Every spot is holy ground,

   God is there--and he's their home,
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 10

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   My name is JACOB.
   Gen 32:27


   Nay, I cannot let Thee go,

   Till a blessing thou bestow;

   Do not turn away thy face,

   Mine's an urgent pressing case.


   Dost thou ask me, who I am?

   Ah, my LORD, thou know'st my name!

   Yet the question gives a plea,

   To support my suit with thee.


   Thou didst once a wretch behold,

   In rebellion blindly bold;

   Scorn thy grace, thy pow'r defy,

   That poor rebel, Lord, was I.


   Once a sinner near despair,

   Sought thy mercy-seat by prayer;

   Mercy heard and set him free,

   Lord, that mercy came to me,


   Many years have passed since then,

   Many changes I have seen;

   Yet have been upheld till now,

   Who could hold me up but thou?


   Thou hast helped in every need,

   This emboldens me to plead;

   After so much mercy past,

   Canst thou let me sink at last?


   No--I must maintain my hold,

   'Tis thy goodness makes me bold;

   I can no denial take,

   When I plead for Jesu's sake.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 11

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   Plenty in a time of dearth.
   Gen 41:56


   My soul once had its plenteous years,

   And throve, with peace and comfort filled,

   Like the fat kine and ripened ears,

   Which Pharaoh in his dream beheld.


   With pleasing frames and grace received,

   With means and ordinances fed;

   How happy for a while I lived,

   And little feared the want of bread.


   But famine came and left no sign,

   Of all the plenty I had seen;

   Like the dry ears and half-starved kine,

   I then looked withered, faint and lean.


   To Joseph the Egyptians went,

   To Jesus I made known my case;

   He, when my little stock was spent,

   Opened his magazine of grace.


   For he the time of dearth foresaw,

   And made provision long before;

   That famished souls, like me, might draw

   Supplies from his unbounded store.


   Now on his bounty I depend,

   And live from fear of dearth secure,

   Maintained by such a mighty friend,

   I cannot want till he is poor.


   O sinners hear his gracious call!

   His mercy's door stands open wide,

   He has enough to feed you all,

   And none who come shall be denied.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 12

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   Joseph made known to his Brethren.
   Gen 45:3,4


   When Joseph his brethren beheld,

   Afflicted and trembling with fear;

   His heart with compassion was filled,

   From weeping he could not forbear.

   Awhile his behavior was rough,

   To bring their past sin to their mind;

   But when they were humbled enough,

   He hasted to show himself kind.


   How little they thought it was he,

   Whom they had ill treated and sold!

   How great their confusion must be,

   As soon as his name he had told!

   "I am Joseph, your brother, he said,

   And still to my heart you are dear,

   You sold me, and thought I was dead,

   But God, for your sakes, sent me here."


   Though greatly distressed before,

   When charged with purloining the cup;

   They now were confounded much more,

   Not one of them durst to look up.

   "Can Joseph, whom we would have slain.

   Forgive us the evil we did?

   And will he our households maintain?

   O this is a brother indeed!"


   Thus dragged by my conscience, I came,

   And laden with guilt, to the Lord;

   Surrounded with terror and shame,

   Unable to utter a word.

   At first he looked stern and revere,

   What anguish then pierced my heart!

   Expecting each moment to hear

   The sentence, "Thou cursed, depart!"


   But O! what surprise when he spoke,

   While tenderness beamed in his face;

   My heart then to pieces was broke,

   O'erwhelmed and confounded by grace:

   "Poor sinner, I know thee full well,

   By thee I was sold and was slain;

   But I died to redeem thee from hell,

   And raise thee in glory to reign.


   I am JESUS, whom thou hast blasphemed,

   And crucified often afresh;

   But let me henceforth be esteemed,

   Thy brother, thy bone, and thy flesh:

   My pardon I freely bestow,

   Thy wants I will fully supply;

   I'll guide thee and guard thee below,

   And soon will remove thee on high.


   Go, publish to sinners around,

   That they may be willing to come,

   The mercy which now you have found,

   And tell them that yet there is room."

   O, sinners, the message obey!

   No more vain excuses pretend;

   But come, without farther delay,

   To Jesus our brother and friend.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  EXODUS
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 13

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The Bitter waters.
   Ex 15:23-15


   Bitter, indeed, the waters are.

   Which in this desert flow;

   Though to the eye they promise fair,

   They taste of sin and woe.


   Of pleasing draughts I once could dream,

   But now, awake, l find,

   That sin has poisoned every stream,

   And left a curse behind.


   But there's a wonder-working wood,

   I've heard believers say,

   Can make these bitter waters good,

   And take the curse away.


   The virtues of this healing tree

   Are known and prized by few;

   Reveal this secret, Lord, to me,

   That I may prize it too.


   The cross on which the Savior died,

   And conquered for his saints;

   This is the tree, by faith applied,

   Which sweetens all complaints.


   Thousands have found the blest effect,

   Nor longer mourn their lot;

   While on his sorrows they reflect,

   Their own are all forgot.


   When they, by faith, behold the cross,

   Though many griefs they meet;

   They draw again from every loss,

   And find the bitter sweet.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 14

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   JEHOVAH-ROPHI,
   I am the Lord that healeth thee.
   Ex 15


   Heal us, EMMANUEL, here we are,

   Waiting to feel thy touch;

   Deep wounded souls to thee repair,

   And, Savior we are such.


   Our faith is feeble we confess,

   We faintly trust thy word;

   But wilt thou pity us the less?

   Be that far from thee, Lord!


   Remember him who once applied

   With trembling for relief;

   "Lord, I believe, with tears he cried,

   O help my unbelief."
   Mk 9:24


   She too, who touched thee in the press,

   And healing virtue stole;

   Was answered, "Daughter, go in peace,

   Thy faith hath made thee whole."
   Mk 5:34


   Concealed amid the gath'ring throng,

   She would have shunned thy view;

   And if her faith was firm and strong,

   Had strong misgivings too.


   Like her, with hopes and fears, we come,

   To touch thee if we may;

   O! send us not despairing home,

   Send none unhealed away.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 15

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   MANNA.
   Ex 16:18


   Manna to Israel well supplied

   The want of other bread;

   While God is able to provide,

   His people shall be fed.


   (Thus though the corn and wine should fail,

   And creature-streams be dry;

   The prayer of faith will still prevail,

   For blessings from on high.)


   Of his kind care how sweet a proof!

   It suited every taste;

   Who gathered most, had just enough,

   Enough, who gathered least.


   'Tis thus our gracious Lord provides

   Our comforts and our cares;

   His own unerring hand provides,

   And gives us each our shares.


   He knows how much the weak can bear,

   And helps them when they cry;

   The strongest have no strength to spare,

   For such he'll strongly try.


   Daily they saw the Manna come,

   And cover all the ground;

   But what they tried to keep at home,

   Corrupted soon was found.


   Vain their attempt to store it up,

   This was to tempt the Lord;

   Israel must live by faith and hope,

   And not upon a hoard.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 16

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Manna hoarded.
   Ex 16:20


   The manna favored Israel's meat,

   Was gathered day by day;

   When all the host was served, the heat

   Melted the rest away.


   In vain to hoard it up they tried,

   Against tomorrow came;

   It then bred worms and putrefied,

   And proved their sin and shame.


   'Twas daily bread and would not keep,

   But must be still renewed;

   Faith should not want a hoard or heap,

   But trust the LORD for food.


   The truths by which the soul is fed,

   Must thus be had afresh;

   For notions resting in the head,

   Will only feed the flesh.


   However true, they have no life,

   Or unction to impart;

   They breed the worms of pride and strife,

   But cannot cheer the heart.


   Nor can the best experience past,

   The life of faith maintain;

   The brightest hope will faint at last,

   Unless supplied again.


   Dear Lord, while we in prayer are found,

   Do thou the Manna give;

   O! let it fall on all around,

   That we may eat and live.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 17

   William Cowper

   6,6,6,6,8,8

   JEHOVAH-NISSI,
   The Lord my banner.
   Ex 17:15


   By whom was David taught,

   To aim the dreadful blow,

   When he Goliath fought,

   And laid the Gittite low?

   No sword nor spear the stripling took,

   But chose a pebble from the brook.


   'Twas Israel's God and king,

   Who sent him to the fight;

   Who gave him strength to fling,

   And skill to aim aright.

   Ye feeble saints your strength endures,

   Because young David's GOD is yours.


   Who ordered Gideon forth,

   To storm th' invaders' camp,
   Judg 7:20

   With arms of little worth,

   A pitcher and a lamp?

   The trumpets made his coming known,

   And all the host was overthrown.


   Oh! I have seen the day,

   When with a single word,

   GOD helping me to say,

   My trust is in the LORD;

   My soul has quelled a thousand foes,

   Fearless of all that could oppose.


   But unbelief, self-will,

   Self-righteousness and pride,

   How often do they steal

   My weapon from my side?

   Yet David's LORD, and Gideon's friend,

   Will help his servant to the end.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 18

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The golden calf.
   Ex 32:4,31


   When Israel heard the fiery law,

   From Sinai's top proclaimed;

   Their hearts seemed full of holy awe,

   Their stubborn spirits tamed.


   Yet, as forgetting all they knew,

   Ere forty days were past;

   With blazing Sinai still in view,

   A molten calf they cast.


   Yea, Aaron, God's anointed priest,

   Who on the mount had been

   He durst prepare the idol-beast,

   And lead them on to sin.


   LORD, what is man! and what are we,

   To recompense thee thus!

   In their offence our own we see,

   Their story points at us.


   From Sinai we have heard thee speak,

   And from mount Calv'ry too;

   And yet to idols oft we seek,

   While thou art in our view.


   Some golden calf, or golden dream,

   Some fancied creature-good,

   Presumes to share the heart with him,

   Who bought the whole with blood.


   LORD, save us from our golden calves,

   Our sin with grief we own;

   We would no more be thine by halves,

   But live to thee alone.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  LEVITICUS
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 19

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The true AARON
   Lev 8:7-9


   See Aaron, God's anointed priest,

   Within the veil appear;

   In robes of mystic meaning dressed,

   Presenting Israel's prayer.


   The plate of gold which crowns his brows,

   His holiness describes;

   His breast displays, in shining rows,

   The names of all the tribes.


   With the atoning blood he stands,

   Before the mercy-seat;

   And clouds of incense from his hands,

   Arise with odor sweet.


   Urim and Thummim near his heart,

   In rich engravings worn;

   The sacred light of truth impart,

   To teach and to adorn.


   Through him the eye of faith descries,

   A greater Priest than he;

   Thus JESUS pleads above the skies,

   For you, my friends, and me.


   He bears the names of all his saints,

   Deep on his heart engraved;

   Attentive to the state and wants

   Of all his love has saved.


   In him a holiness complete,

   Light and perfections shine;

   And wisdom, grace, and glory meet;

   A Savior all divine.


   The blood, which as a Priest he bears

   For sinners, is his own

   The incense of his prayers and tears

   Perfume the holy throne.


   In him my weary soul has rest,

   Though I am weak and vile

   I read my name upon his breast,

   And see the Father smile.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  NUMBERS
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 20

   John Newton

   6,6,8,6

   BALAAM's wish
   Num 23:10


   How blest the righteous are

   When they resign their breath!

   No wonder Balaam wished to share

   In such a happy death.


   "Oh! let me die, said he,

   The death the righteous do;

   When life is ended let me be

   Found with the faithful few."


   The force of truth how great!

   When enemies confess,

   None but the righteous whom they hate,

   A solid hope possess.


   But Balaam's wish was vain,

   His heart was insincere;

   He thirsted for unrighteous gain,

   And sought a portion here.


   He seemed the LORD to know,

   And to offend him loth;

   But Mammon proved his overthrow,

   For none can serve them both.


   May you, my friends, and I,

   Warning from hence receive;

   If like the righteous we would die,

   To choose the life they live.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  JOSHUA
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 21

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   GIBEON.
   Josh 10:6


   When Joshua, by GOD's command,

   Invaded Canaan's guilty land;

   Gibeon, unlike the nations round,

   Submission made and mercy found.


   Their stubborn neighbors who enraged,

   United war against them waged,

   By Joshua soon were overthrown,

   For Gibeon's cause was now his own.


   He, from whose arm they ruin feared,

   Their leader and ally appeared

   An emblem of the Savior's grace,

   To those who humbly seek his face.


   The men of Gibeon wore disguise,

   And gained their peace by framing lies;

   For Joshua had no pow'r to spare,

   If he had known from whence they were.


   But JESUS invitations sends,

   Treating with rebels as his friends;

   And holds the promise forth in view,

   To all who for his mercy sue.


   Too long his goodness I disdained,

   Yet went at last and peace obtained;

   But soon the noise of war I heard,

   And former friends in arms appeared.


   Weak in myself for help I cried,

   LORD, I am pressed on every side;

   The cause is thine, they fight with me,

   But every blow is aimed at thee.


   With speed to my relief he came,

   And put my enemies to shame;

   Thus saved by grace I live to sing,

   The love and triumphs of my King.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  JUDGES
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 22

   William Cowper

   8,8,8,8

   JEHOVAM-SHALEM,
   The LORD send peace.
   Judg 6:24


   Jesus, whose blood so freely streamed

   To satisfy the laws demand;

   By thee from guilt and wrath redeemed,

   Before the Father's face I stand.


   To reconcile offending man,

   Make Justice drop her angry rod;

   What creature could have formed the plan,

   Or who fulfil it but a God?


   No drop remains of all the curse;

   For wretches who deserved the whole;

   No arrows dipped in wrath to pierce

   The guilty, but returning soul.


   Peace by such means co dearly bought,

   What rebel could have hoped to see?

   Peace, by his injured sovereign wrought,

   His Sovereign fastened to the tree.


   Now, LORD, thy feeble worm prepare!

   For strife with earth and hell begins;

   Confirm and gird me for the war,

   They hate the soul that hates his sins.


   Let them in horrid league agree!

   They may assault, they may distress;

   But cannot quench thy love to me,

   Nor rob me of the LORD my peace.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 23

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   GIDEON's fleece.
   Judg 6:37-40


   The signs which GOD to Gideon gave,

   His holy Sovereignty made known;

   That He alone has pow'r to save,

   And claims the glory as his own.


   The dew which first the fleece had filled,

   When all the earth was dry around;

   Was from it afterwards withheld,

   And only fell upon the ground.


   To Israel thus the heavenly dew

   Of saving truth was long restrained;

   Of which the Gentiles nothing knew,

   But dry and desolate remained.


   But now the Gentiles have received

   The balmy dew of gospel peace

   And Israel, who his spirit grieved,

   Is left a dry and empty fleece.


   This dew still falls at his command,

   To keep his chosen plants alive;

   They shall, though in a thirsty land,

   Like willows by the waters thrive.
   Is 44:4


   But chiefly when his people meet,

   To hear his word and seek his face;

   The gentle dew, with influence sweet,

   Descends and nourishes their grace.


   But ah! what numbers still are dead,

   Though under means of grace they lie!

   The dew still falling round their head,

   And yet their heart untouched and dry.


   Dear Savior, hear us when we call,

   To wrestling prayer an answer give;

   Pour down thy dew upon us all,

   That all may feel, and all may live.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 24

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   SAMPSON's lion.
   Judg 14:8


   The lion that on Sampson roared,

   And thirsted for his blood;

   With honey afterwards was stored,

   And furnished him with food.


   Believers, as they pace along,

   With many lions meet;

   But gather sweetness from the strong,

   And from the eater, meat.


   The lions rage and roar in vain,

   For Jesus is their shield;

   Their losses prove a certain gain,

   Their troubles comfort yield.


   The world and Satan join their strength,

   To fill their souls with fears;

   But crops of joy they reap at length,

   From what they sow in tears.


   Afflictions make them love the word,

   Stir up their hearts to prayer;

   And many precious proofs afford,

   Of their Redeemer's care.


   The lions roar but cannot kill,

   Then fear them not, my friends,

   They bring us, though against their will,

   The honey JESUS sends.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  I SAMUEL
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 25

   John Newton
   1Sam 1:10,18


   When Hannah pressed with grief,

   Poured forth her soul in prayer;

   She quickly found relief,

   And left her burden there:

   Like her, in every trying case,

   Let us approach the throne of grace.


   When she began to pray,

   Her heart was pained and sad;

   But ere she went away,

   Was comforted and glad:

   In trouble, what a resting place,

   Have they who know the throne of grace!


   Though men and devils rage,

   And threaten to devour;

   The saints, from age to age,

   Are safe from all their pow'r:

   Fresh strength they gain to run their race,

   By waiting at the throne of grace.


   Eli her case mistook,

   How was her spirit moved

   By his unkind rebuke?

   But GOD her cause approved.

   We need not fear a creature's face,

   While welcome at a throne of grace.


   She was not filled with wine,

   As Eli rashly thought;

   But with a faith divine,

   And found the help file sought:

   Though men despise and call us base,

   Still let us ply the throne of grace.


   Men have not pow'r or skill,

   With troubled souls to bear;

   Though they express good-will,

   Poor comforters they are:

   But swelling sorrows sink apace,

   When we approach the throne of grace.


   Numbers before have tried,

   And found the promise true;

   Nor one been yet denied,

   Then why should I or you?

   Let us by faith their footsteps trace,

   And hasten to the throne of grace.


   As fogs obscure the light,

   And taint the morning air;

   But soon are put to flight,

   If the bright sun appear;

   Thus Jesus will our troubles chase,

   By shining from the throne of grace. [1]
     __________________________________________________________________

   [1] See also Book 2, Hymn 61
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 26

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   DAGON before the ark.
   Judg 5:4,5


   When first to make my heart his own,

   The Lord revealed his mighty grace;

   Self reigned, like Dagon, on the throne,

   But could not long maintain its place.


   It fell, and owned the pow'r divine,

   (Grace can with ease the vict'ry gain)

   But soon this wretched heart of mine,

   Contrived to set it up again.


   Again the LORD his name proclaimed,

   And brought the hateful idol low;

   Then self, like Dagon, broken, maimed,

   Seemed to receive a mortal blow.


   Yet self is not of life bereft,

   Nor ceases to oppose his will;

   Though but a maimed stump be left,

   'Tis Dagon, 'tis an idol still.


   Lord! must I always guilty prove,

   And idols in my heart have room?
   Hos 14:8

   Oh! let the, fire of heavenly love,

   The very slump of self consume.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 27

   John Newton

   6,6,8,6

   The milch kine drawing the ark:
   Faith's surrender of all
   1Sam 6:12


   The kine unguided went

   By the directest road;

   When the Philistines homeward sent

   The ark of Israel's God.


   Lowing they passed along,

   And left their calves shut up;

   They felt an instinct for their young,

   But would not turn or stop.


   Shall brutes, devoid of thought,

   Their Maker's will obey;

   And we, who by his grace are taught,

   More stubborn prove than they?


   He shed his precious blood

   To make us his alone;

   If washed in that atoning flood

   We are no more our own.


   If he his will reveal,

   Let us obey his call;

   And think whate'er the flesh may feel,

   His love deserves our all.


   We should maintain in view

   His glory, as our end;

   Too much we cannot bear, or do,

   For such a matchless friend.


   His saints should stand prepared

   In duty's path to run;

   Nor count their greatest trials hard,

   So that his will be done.


   With Jesus for our guide,

   The path is safe though rough

   The promise says, "I will provide,"

   And faith replies, "Enough!"
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 28

   John Newton

   7,6,7,6

   SAUL's armor.
   1Sam 17:38-40


   When first my soul enlisted

   My Savior's foes to fight;

   Mistaken friends insisted

   I was not armed aright:

   So Saul advised David

   He certainly would fail;

   Nor could his life be saved

   Without a coat of mail.


   But David, though he yielded

   To put the armor on,

   Soon found he could not wield it,

   And ventured forth with none.

   With only sling and pebble

   He fought the fight of faith;

   The weapons seemed but feeble,

   Yet proved Goliath's death.


   Had I by him been guided,

   And quickly thrown away

   The armor men provided,

   I might have gained the day;

   But armed as they advised me,

   My expectations failed;

   My enemy surprised me,

   And had almost prevailed.


   Furnished with books and notions,

   And arguments and pride

   I practised all my motions,

   And Satan's pow'r defied

   But soon perceived with trouble,

   That these would do no good;

   Iron to him is stubble,
   Job 41:27

   And brass like rotten wood.


   I triumphed at a distance

   While he was out of sight;

   But faint was my resistance

   When forced to join in fight:

   He broke my sword in shivers,

   And pierced my boasted shield;

   Laughed at my vain endeavors,

   And drove me from the field.


   Satan will not be braved

   By such a worm as I;

   Then let me learn with David,

   To trust in the Most High;

   To plead the name of Jesus,

   And use the sling of prayer;

   Thus armed, when Satan sees us

   He'll tremble and despair.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  II SAMUEL
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 29

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   DAVID's fall
   2Sam 11:27


   How David, when by sin deceived,

   From bad to worse went on!

   For when the Holy Spirit's grieved,

   Our strength and guard are gone.


   His eye on Bathsheba once fixed,

   With poison filled his soul;

   He ventured on adult'ry next,

   And murder crowned the whole.


   So from a spark of fire at first,

   That has not been descried;

   A dreadful flame has often burst,

   And ravaged far and wide.


   When sin deceives it hardens too,

   For though he vainly fought

   To hide his crimes from public view,

   Of God he little thought.


   He neither would, or could repent,

   No true compunction felt;

   'Till God in mercy Nathan sent,

   His stubborn heart to melt.


   The parable held forth a fact,

   Designed his case to show;

   But though the picture was exact,

   Himself he did not know.


   "Thou art the man," the prophet said,

   That word his slumber broke;

   And when he owned his sin, and prayed,

   The LORD forgiveness spoke.


   Let those who think they stand beware,

   For David stood before;

   Nor let the fallen soul despair,

   For mercy can restore.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 30

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   Is this thy kindness to thy friend.
   2Sam 16:17


   Poor, weak, and worthless though I am,

   I have a rich almighty friend;

   Jesus, the Savior, is his name,

   He freely loves, and without end.


   He ransomed me from hell with blood,

   And by his pow'r my foes controlled;

   He found me, wand'ring far from God,

   And brought me to his chosen fold.


   He cheers my heart, my wants supplies,

   And says that I shall shortly be

   Enthroned with him above the skies,

   O! what a friend is CHRIST to me.


   But ah! I my inmost spirit mourns,

   And well my eyes with tears may swim,

   To think of my perverse returns;

   I've been a faithless friend to him.


   Often my gracious Friend I grieve,

   Neglect, distrust, and disobey,

   And often Satan's lies believe,

   Sooner than all my Friend can say.


   He bids me always freely come,

   And promises whate'er I ask:

   But I am straitened, cold and dumb,

   And count my privilege a task.


   Before the world that hates his course,

   My treach'rous heart has throbbed with shame;

   Loth to forego the worlds applause,

   I hardly dare avow his name.


   Sure were not I most vile and base,

   I could not thus my friend requite!

   And were not he the God of grace,

   He'd frown and spurn me from his sight.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  I KINGS
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 31

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   Ask what I shall give thee.
   1Ki 3:5


   Come, my soul, thy suit prepare,

   Jesus loves to answer prayer,

   He himself has bid thee pray,

   Therefore will not say thee nay.


   Thou art coming to a King,
   Ps 81:10

   Large petitions with thee bring;

   For his grace and pow'r are such,

   None can ever ask too much.


   With my burden I begin,

   Lord, remove this load of sin!

   Let thy blood, for sinners spilt,

   Set my conscience free from guilt.


   Lord! I come to thee for rest,

   Take possession of my breast;

   There thy blood-bought right maintain,

   And without a rival reign.


   As the image in the glass

   Answers the beholder's face;

   Thus unto my heart appear,

   Print thine own resemblance there.


   While I am a pilgrim here,

   Let thy love my spirit cheer;

   As my Guide, my Guard, my Friend,

   Lead me to my journey's end.


   Show me what I have to do,

   Every hour my strength renew;

   Let me live a life of faith,

   Let me die thy peoples death.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 32

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   Ask what I shall give thee.
   1Ki 3:5


   If Solomon for wisdom prayed,

   The Lord before had made him wise;

   Else he another choice had made,

   And asked for what the worldlings prize.


   Thus he invites his people still,

   He first instructs them how to choose;

   Then bids them ask whate'er they will,

   Assured that He will not refuse.


   Our wishes would our ruin prove,

   Could we our wretched choice obtain;

   Before we feel the Savior's love,

   Kindle our love to him again.


   But when our hearts perceive his worth,

   Desires, till then unknown, take place;

   Our spirits cleave no more to earth,

   But pant for holiness and grace.


   And dost thou say, "Ask what thou wilt?"

   Lord, I would seize the golden hour;

   I pray to be released from guilt,

   And freed from sin and Satan's pow'r.


   More of thy presence, Lord, impart,

   More of thine image let me bear;

   Erect thy throne within my heart,

   And reign without a rival there.


   Give me to read my pardon sealed,

   And from thy joy to draw my strength;

   To have thy boundless love revealed

   In all its height, and breadth, and length.


   Grant these requests, I ask no more

   But to thy care the rest resign;

   Sick or in health, or rich or poor,

   All shall be well if thou art mine.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 33

   John Newton

   6,6,8,6

   Ask what I shall give thee.
   1Ki 3:5


   Behold the throne of grace!

   The promise calls me near;

   There Jesus shows a smiling face,

   And waits to answer prayer.


   That rich atoning blood,

   Which sprinkled round I see;

   Provides for those who come to God,

   An all-prevailing plea.


   My soul ask what thou wilt,

   Thou canst not be too bold;

   Since his own blood for thee he spilt,

   What else can he withhold.


   Beyond thy utmost wants

   His love and pow'r can bless;

   To praying souls he always grants,

   More than they can express.


   Since 'tis the Lord's command,

   My mouth I open wide;

   Lord open thou thy bounteous hand,

   That I may be supplied.


   Thine image, LORD, bestow,

   Thy presence and thy love;

   I ask to serve thee here below,

   And reign with thee above.


   Teach me to live by faith,

   Conform my will to thine;

   Let me victorious be in death,

   And then in glory shine.


   If Thou these blessings give,

   And wilt my portion be;

   Cheerful the world's poor toys I leave,

   To them who know not thee.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 34

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   Queen of SHEBA
   1Ki 10:1-9


   From Sheba a distant report

   Of Solomon's glory and fame,

   Invited the queen to his court,

   But all was outdone when she came;

   She cried, with a pleasing surprise,

   When first she before him appeared,

   "How much, what I see with my eyes,

   "Surpasses the rumor I heard!"


   When once to Jerusalem come,

   The treasure and train she had brought;

   The wealth she possessed at home,

   No longer had place in her thought:

   His house, his attendants, his throne,

   All struck her with wonder and awe;

   The glory of Solomon shone,

   In every object she saw.


   But Solomon most she admired,

   Whose spirit conducted the whole;

   His wisdom, which God had inspired,

   His bounty and greatness of soul;

   Of all the hard questions she put,

   A ready solution he showed;

   Exceeded her with and her suit,

   And more than she asked him bestowed.


   Thus I when the gospel proclaimed

   The Savior's great name in my ears,

   The wisdom for which he is famed,

   The love which to sinners he bears;

   I longed, and I was not denied,

   That I in his presence might bow;

   I saw, and transported I cried,

   "A greater than Solomon Thou!"


   My conscience no comfort could find,

   By doubt and hard questions opposed;

   But He restored peace to my mind,

   And answered each doubt I proposed:

   Beholding me poor and distressed,

   His bounty supplied all my wants;

   My prayer could have never expressed

   So much as this Solomon grants.


   I heard, and was slow to believe,

   But now with my eyes I behold,

   Much more than my heart could conceive,

   Or language could ever have told:

   How happy thy servants must be,

   Who always before thee appear!

   Vouchsafe, LORD, this blessing to me,

   I find it is good to be here.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 35

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   ELIJAH fed by ravens(s).
   1Ki 17:6


   Elijah's example declares,

   Whatever distress may betide;

   The saints may commit all their cares

   To him who will surely provide:

   When rain long withheld from the earth

   Occasioned a famine of bread;

   The prophet, secure from the dearth,

   By ravens was constantly fed.


   More likely to rob than to feed,

   Were ravens who live upon prey;

   But when the Lord's people have need,

   His goodness will find out a way:

   This instance to those may seem strange,

   Who know not how faith can prevail;

   But sooner all nature shall change,

   Than one of God's promises fail.


   Nor is it a singular case,

   The wonder is often renewed;

   And many can say, to his praise,

   He sends them by ravens their food:

   Thus worldlings, though ravens indeed,

   Though greedy and selfish their mind,

   If God has a servant to feed,

   Against their own wills can be kind. [2]


   Thus Satan, that raven unclean,

   Who croaks in the ears of the saints;

   Compelled by a power unseen,

   Administers oft to their wants:

   God teaches them how to find food

   From all the temptations they feel;

   This raven, who thirsts for my blood,

   Has helped me to many a meal.


   How safe and how happy are they

   Who on the good Shepherd rely!

   He gives them out strength for their day,

   Their wants he will surely supply:

   He ravens and lions can tame,

   All creatures obey his command;

   Then let me rejoice in his name,

   And leave all my cares in his hand.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [2] See also Book 3, Hymn 57
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 36

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The meal and Cruse of oil.
   1Ki 17:16


   By the poor widow's oil and meal

   Elijah was sustained;

   Though small the stock it lasted well,

   For God the store maintained.


   It seemed as if from day to day,

   They were to eat and die;

   But still, though in a secret way,

   He sent a fresh supply.


   Thus to his poor he still will give

   Just for the present hour;

   But for tomorrow they must live

   Upon his word and power.


   No barn or storehouse they possess

   On which they can depend;

   Yet have no cause to fear distress,

   For Jesus is their friend.


   Then let not doubts your mind assail,

   Remember, God has said,

   "The cruse and barrel shall not fail,

   "My people shall be fed."


   And thus though faint it often seems,

   He keeps their grace alive;

   Supplied by his refreshing streams,

   Their dying hopes revive.


   Though in ourselves we have no stock,

   The Lord is nigh to save;

   His door flies open when we knock,

   And 'tis but ask and have.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  II KINGS
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 37

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   JERICHO; Or, The waters healed.
   2Ki 2:19-22


   Though Jericho pleasantly stood,

   And looked like a promising soil;

   The harvest produced little food,

   To answer the husbandman's toil.

   The water some property had,

   Which poisonous proved to the ground;

   The springs were corrupted and bad,

   The streams spread a barrenness round.


   But soon by the cruse and the salt,

   Prepared by Elisha's command,

   The water was cured of its fault,

   And plenty enriched the land:

   An emblem sure this of the grace

   On fruitless dead sinners bestowed;

   For man is in Jericho's case,

   Till cured by the mercy of God.


   How noble a creature he seems!

   What knowledge, invention and skill!

   How large and extensive his schemes!

   How much can he do if he will!

   His zeal to be learned and wise,

   Will yield to no limits or bars;

   He measures the earth and the skies,

   And numbers and marshals the stars.


   Yet still he is barren of good;

   In vain are his talents and art;

   For sin has infected his blood,

   And poisoned the streams of his heart:

   Though cockatrice eggs he can hatch,
   Is 54:5

   Or, spider-like, cobwebs can weave;

   'Tis madness to labor and watch

   For what will destroy or deceive.


   But grace, like the salt in the cruse,

   When cast in the spring of the soul;

   A wonderful change will produce,

   Diffusing new life through the whole:

   The wilderness blooms like a rose,

   The heart which was vile and abhorred;

   Now fruitful and beautiful grows,

   The garden and joy of the Lord.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 38

   John Newton

   6,6,6,6,8,8

   NAAMAN.
   2Ki 5:14


   Before Elisha's gate

   The Syrian leper stood;

   But could not brook to wait,

   He deemed himself too good:

   He thought the prophet would attend,

   And not to him a message send.


   Have I this journey come,

   And will he not be seen?

   I were as well at home,

   Would washing make me clean:

   Why must I wash in Jordan's flood?

   Damascus' rivers are as good.


   Thus by his foolish pride

   He almost missed a cure;

   Howe'er at length he tried,

   And found the method sure:

   Soon as his pride was brought to yield,

   The leprosy was quickly healed.


   Leprous and proud as he,

   To Jesus thus I came,

   From sin to set me free,

   When first I heard his fame:

   Surely, thought I, my pompous train

   Of vows and tears will notice gain.


   My heart devised the way

   Which I supposed he'd take;

   And when I found delay,

   Was ready to go back:

   Had he some painful task enjoined,

   I to performance seemed inclined.


   When by his word he spake,

   That fountain opened see;

   'Twas opened for thy sake,

   Go wash, and thou art free:"

   O! how did my proud heart gainsay,

   I feared to trust this simple way.


   At length I trial made,

   When I had much endured;

   The message I obeyed,

   I washed, and I was cured:

   Sinners this healing fountain try,

   Which cleansed a wretch so vile as I.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 39

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The borrowed axe.
   2Ki 6:5,6


   The prophets sons, in time of old,

   Though to appearance poor;

   Were rich without possessing gold,

   And honored, though obscure.


   In peace their daily bread they eat,

   By honest labor earned;

   While daily at Elisha's feet,

   They grace and wisdom learned.


   The prophet's presence cheered their toil,

   They watched the words he spoke;

   Whether they turned the furrowed soil,

   Or felled the spreading oak.


   Once as they listened to his theme,

   Their conference was stopped;

   For one beneath the yielding stream,

   A borrowed axe had dropped.


   "Alas! it was not mine, he said,

   How shall I make it good?"

   Elisha heard, and when he prayed,

   The iron swam like wood.


   If God, in such a small affair,

   A miracle performs;

   It shows his condescending care

   Of poor unworthy worms.


   Though kings and nations in his view

   Are but as motes and dust;

   His eye and ear are fixed on you,

   Who in his mercy trust.


   Not one concern of ours is small,

   If we belong to him;

   To teach us this, the LORD of all,

   Once made the iron swim.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 40

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   More with us than with them
   2Ki 6:16


   Alas! Elisha's servant cried,

   When he the Syrian army spied,

   But he was soon released from care,

   In answer to the prophet's prayer.


   Straitway he saw, with other eyes,

   A greater army from the skies;

   A fiery guard around the hill,

   Thus are the saints preserved still.


   When Satan and his host appear,

   Like him of old, I faint and fear;

   Like him, by faith, with joy I see,

   A greater host engaged for me.


   The saints espouse my cause by prayer,

   The angels make my soul their care;

   Mine is the promise sealed with blood,

   And Jesus lives to make it good.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  I CHRONICLES
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 41

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Faith's review and expectation.
   1Chr 17:16,17


   Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)

   That saved a wretch like me!

   I once was lost, hut now am found,

   Was blind, but now I see.


   'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

   And grace my fears relieved;

   How precious did that grace appear,

   The hour I first believed!


   Through many dangers, toils and snares,

   I have already come;

   'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,

   And grace will lead me home.


   The LORD has promised good to me,

   His word my hope secures;

   He will my shield and portion be,

   As long as life endures.


   Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,

   And mortal life shall cease,

   I shall possess, within the veil,

   A life of joy and peace.


   The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,

   The sun forbear to shine;

   But GOD, who called me here below,

   Will be for ever mine.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  NEHEMIAH
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 42

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The joy of the Lord is your strength.
   Neh 9:10


   Joy is a fruit that will not grow

   In nature's barren foil;

   All we can boast, till CHRIST we know,

   Is vanity and toil.


   But where the LORD has planted grace;

   And made his glories known;

   There fruits of heavenly joy and peace

   Are found, and there alone.


   A bleeding Savior seen by faith,

   A sense of pard'ning love;

   A hope that triumphs over death,

   Give joys like those above.


   To take a glimpse within the veil,

   To know that God is mine;

   Are springs of joy that never fail,

   Unspeakably divine!


   These are the joys which satisfy,

   And sanctify the mind;

   Which make the spirit mount on high,

   And leave the world behind.


   No more, believers, mourn your lot,

   But if you are the LORD'S;

   Resign to them that know him not,

   Such joys as earth affords.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  JOB
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 43

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Oh that I were as in months past!
   Job 29:2


   Sweet was the time when first I felt

   The Savior's pard'ning blood

   Applied, to cleanse my soul from guilt,

   And bring me home to God.


   Soon as the morn the light revealed,

   His praises tuned my tongue;

   And when the evening shades prevailed,

   His love was all my song.


   In vain the tempter spread his wiles,

   The world no more could charm;

   I lived upon my Savior's smiles,

   And leaned upon his arm.


   In prayer my soul drew near the Lord,

   And saw his glory shine;

   And when I read his holy word,

   I called each promise mine.


   Then to his saints I often spoke;

   Of what his love had done;

   But now my heart is almost broke,

   For all my joys are gone.


   Now when the evening shade prevails,

   My soul in darkness mourns,

   And when the morn the light reveals,

   No light to me returns.


   My prayers are now a chatt'ring noise,

   For Jesus hides his face;

   I read, the promise meets my eyes,

   But will not reach my case.


   Now Satan threatens to prevail,

   And make my soul his prey;

   Yet, Lord, thy mercies cannot fail,

   O come without delay.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 44

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7,7,7

   The change [3] [4]


   Savior shine and cheer my soul,

   Bid my dying hopes revive;

   Make my wounded spirit whole,

   Far away the tempter drive:

   Speak the word and set me free,

   Let me live alone to thee.


   Shall I sigh and pray in vain,

   Wilt thou still refuse to hear;

   Wilt thou not return again,

   Must I yield to black despair?

   Thou hast taught my heart to pray,

   Canst thou turn thy face away?


   Once I thought my mountain strong,

   Firmly fixed no more to move;

   Then thy grace was all my song,

   Then my soul was filled with love:

   Those were happy golden days,

   Sweetly spent in prayer and praise.


   When my friends have said, "Beware,

   Soon or late you'll find a change;"

   I could see no cause for fear,

   Vain their caution seemed and strange:

   Not a cloud obscured my sky,

   Could I think a tempest nigh?


   Little, then, myself I knew,

   Little thought of Satan's pow'r;

   Now I find their words were true,

   Now I feel the stormy hour!

   Sin has put my joys to flight,

   Sin has changed my day to night.


   Satan asks, and mocks my woe,

   "Boaster, where is now your God?"

   Silence, Lord, this cruel foe,

   Let him know I'm bought with blood:

   Tell him, since I know thy name,

   Though I change thou art the same.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [3] See also Book 2, Hymn 34

   [4] See also Book 3, Hymn 68
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  PSALMS
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 45

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Pleading for mercy.
   Ps 6


   In mercy, not in wrath, rebuke

   Thy feeble worm, my God!

   My spirit dreads thine angry look,

   And trembles at thy rod.


   Have mercy, Lord, for I am weak,

   Regard my heavy groans;

   O let thy voice of comfort speak,

   And heal my broken bones!


   By day my busy beating head

   Is filled with anxious fears;

   By night, upon my restless bed,

   I weep a flood of tears.


   Thus I sit desolate and mourn,

   Mine eyes grow dull with grief;

   How long, my LORD, ere thou return,

   And bring my soul relief?


   O come and show thy pow'r to save,

   And spare my fainting breath;

   For who can praise thee in the grave,

   Or sing thy name in death?


   Satan, my cruel envious foe,

   Insults me in my pain;

   He smiles to see me brought so low,

   And tells me hope is vain,


   But hence, thou enemy, depart!

   Nor tempt me to despair;

   My Savior comes to cheer my heart,

   The Lord has heard my prayer.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 46

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   None upon earth I desire besides thee.
   Ps 73:25


   How tedious and tasteless the hours,

   When JESUS no longer I see;

   Sweet prospects, sweet birds, and sweet flow'rs,

   Have lost all their sweetness with me:

   The mid-summer sun shines but dim,

   The fields strive in vain to look gay;

   But when I am happy in Him,

   December's as pleasant as May.


   His name yields the richest perfume,

   And sweeter than music his voice;

   His presence disperses my gloom,

   And makes all within me rejoice:

   I should, were he always thus nigh,

   Have nothing to wish or to fear;

   No mortal so happy as I,

   My summer would last all the year.


   Content with beholding his face,

   My all to his pleasure resigned;

   No changes of season or place,

   Would make any change in my mind:

   While blessed with a sense of his love,

   A palace a toy would appear;

   And prisons would palaces prove,

   If JESUS would dwell with me there.


   Dear LORD, if indeed I am thine,

   If thou art my sun and my song;

   Say, why do I languish and pine,

   And why are my winters so long?

   O drive these dark clouds from my sky,

   Thy soul-cheering presence restore;

   Or take me unto thee on high,

   Where winter and clouds are no more.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 47

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The believer's safety.
   Ps 91


   Incarnate God! the soul that knows

   Thy name's mysterious power

   Shall dwell in undisturbed repose,

   Nor fear the trying hour.


   Thy wisdom, faithfulness and love,

   To feeble helpless worms;

   A buckler and a refuge prove,

   From enemies and storms.


   In vain the fowler spreads his net,

   To draw them from thy care;

   Thy timely call instructs their feet,

   To shun the artful snare.


   When like a baneful pestilence,

   Sin mows its thousands down

   On every side, without defence,

   Thy grace secures thine own.


   No midnight terrors haunt their bed,

   No arrow wounds by day;

   Unhurt on serpents they shall tread,

   If found in duty's way.


   Angels, unseen, attend the saints,

   And bear them in their arms;

   To cheer the spirit when it faints,

   And guard the life from harms.


   The angels' Lord, himself is nigh,

   To them that love his name;

   Ready to save them when they cry,

   And put their foes to shame.


   Crosses and changes are their lot,

   Long as they sojourn here;

   But since their Savior changes not,

   What have the saints to fear?
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 48

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   The believer's safety.
   Ps 91


   That man no guard or weapons needs,

   Whose heart the blood of JESUS knows;

   But safe may pass, if duty leads,

   Through burning sands or mountain snows.


   Released from guilt he feels no fear,

   Redemption is his shield and tow'r;

   He sees his Savior always near

   To help, in every trying hour.


   Though I am weak and Satan strong,

   And often to assault me tries;

   When Jesus is my shield and song,

   Abashed the wolf before me flies.


   His love possessing I am blest,

   Secure whatever change may come;

   Whether I go to East or West,

   With him I still shall be at home.


   If placed beneath the northern pole,

   Though winter reigns with rigor there;

   His gracious beams would cheer my soul,

   And make a spring throughout the year.


   Or if the deserts sun-burnt soil,

   My lonely dwelling e'er should prove;

   His presence would support my toil,

   Whose smile is life, whose voice is love.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 49

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   He led them by a right way.
   Ps 107:7


   When Israel was from Egypt freed,

   The LORD, who brought them out,

   Helped them in every time of need,

   But led them round about.
   Ex 13:17


   To enter Canaan soon they hoped,

   But quickly changed their mind;

   When the Red Sea their passage stopped,

   And Pharaoh marched behind.


   The desert filled them with alarms,

   For water and for food;

   And Amalek, by force of arms,

   To check their progress stood.


   They often murmured by the way,

   Because they judged by sight;

   But were at length constrained to say,

   The Lord had led them right.


   In the Red Sea that stopped them first,

   Their enemies were drowned;

   The rocks gave water for their thirst,

   And Manna spread the ground.


   By fire and cloud their way was shown,

   Across the pathless sands;

   And Amalek was overthrown,

   By Moses' lifted hands.


   The way was right their hearts to prove,

   To make GOD'S glory known;

   And show his wisdom, pow'r and love,

   Engaged to save his own.


   Just so the true believer's path

   Through many dangers lies;

   Though dark to sense, 'tis right to faith,

   And leads us to the skies.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 50

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   What shall I render Ps 116:12,13 [5]


   For mercies, countless as the sands,

   Which daily I receive

   From Jesus, my Redeemer's hands,

   My soul what canst thou give?


   Alas! from such a heart as mine,

   What can I bring him forth?

   My best is stained and dyed with sin,

   My all is nothing worth.


   Yet this acknowledgment I'll make

   For all he has bestowed;

   Salvation's sacred cup I'll take

   And call upon my God.


   The best returns for one like me,

   So wretched and so poor;

   Is from his gifts to draw a plea,

   And ask him still for more.


   I cannot serve him as I ought,

   No works have I to boast;

   Yet would I glory in the thought

   That I shall owe him most.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [5] See also Book 3, Hymn 67
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 51

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   Dwelling in Mesech.
   Ps 120:5-7


   What a mournful life is mine,

   Fill with crosses, pains and cares!

   Every work defiled with sin,

   Every step beset with snares!


   If alone I pensive fit,

   I myself can hardly bear;

   If I pass along the street,

   Sin and riot triumph there.


   Jesus! how my heart is pained,

   How it mourns for souls deceived!

   When I hear thy name profaned,

   When I see thy Spirit grieved!


   When thy children's griefs I view,

   Their distress becomes my own;

   All I hear, or see, or do,

   Makes me tremble, weep and groan.


   Mourning thus I long had been,

   When I heard my Savior's voice;

   Thou hast cause to mourn for sin,

   But in me thou may'st rejoice."


   This kind word dispelled my grief,

   Put to silence my complaints;

   Though of sinners I am chief,

   He his ranked me with his saints.


   Though constrained to dwell a while

   Where the wicked strive and brawl;

   Let them frown; so he but smile,

   Heav'n will make amends for all.


   There, believers, we shall rest,

   Free from sorrow, sin and fears;

   Nothing there our peace molests,

   Through eternal rounds of years.


   Let us then the fight endure,

   See our Captain looking down;

   He will make the conquest sure,

   And bestow the promised crown.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  PROVERBS
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 52

   William Cowper

   7,6,7,6

   Wisdom.
   Pr 8:22-31


   Ere God had built the mountains,

   Or raised the fruitful hills;

   Before he filled the fountains

   That feed the running rills;

   In me, from everlasting,

   The wonderful I AM,

   Found pleasures never wasting,

   And Wisdom is my name.


   When, like a tent to dwell in,

   He spread the skies abroad;

   And swathed about the swelling

   Of ocean's mighty flood;.

   He wrought by weight and measure,

   And I was with him then;

   Myself the Father's pleasure,

   And mine, the sons of men.


   Thus wisdom's words discover

   Thy glory and thy grace,

   Thou everlasting lover

   Of our unworthy race!

   Thy gracious eye surveyed us

   Ere stars were seen above.

   In wisdom thou hast made us,

   And died for us in love.


   And couldst thou be delighted

   With creatures such as we!

   Who when we saw thee, slighted

   And nailed thee to a tree?

   Unfathomable wonder,

   And mystery divine!

   The voice that speaks in thunder,

   Says, "Sinner I am thine!"
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 53

   John Newton

   8,7,8,7,7,7

   A friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
   Pr 18:24


   One there is, above all others,

   Well deserves the name of friend;

   His is love beyond a brother's,

   Costly, free, and knows no end:

   They who once his kindness prove,

   Find it everlasting love!


   Which of all our friends to save us,

   Could or would have shed their blood?

   But our JESUS died to have us

   Reconciled, in him to God:

   This was boundless love indeed!

   JESUS is a friend in need.


   Men, when raised to lofty stations,

   Often know their friends no more;

   Slight and scorn their poor relations

   Though they valued them before.

   But our Savior always owns

   Those whom he redeemed with groans.


   When he lived on earth abased,

   Friend of sinners was his name;

   Now, above all glory raised,

   He rejoices in the same:

   Still he calls them brethren, friends,

   And to all their wants attends.


   Could we bear from one another,

   What he daily bears from us?

   Yet this glorious Friend and Brother,

   Loves us though we treat him thus:

   Though for good we render ill,

   He accounts us brethren still.


   O for grace our hearts to soften!

   Teach us, Lord, at length to love;

   We, alas! forget too often,

   What a Friend we have above:

   But when home our souls are brought,

   We will love thee as we ought.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 54

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Vanity of Life [6]
   Eccl 2


   The evils that beset our path

   Who can prevent or cure?

   We stand upon the brink of death

   When most we seem secure.


   If we today sweet peace possess,

   It soon may be withdrawn;

   Some change may plunge us in distress,

   Before tomorrow's dawn.


   Disease and pain invade our health

   And find an easy prey;

   And oft, when least expected, wealth

   Takes wings and flies away.


   A fever or a blow can shake

   Our wisdom's boasted rule;

   And of the brightest genius make

   A madman or a fool.


   The gourds, from which we look for fruit,

   Produce us only pain;

   A worm unseen attacks the root,

   And all our hopes are vain.


   I pity those who seek no more

   Than such a world can give;

   Wretched they are, and blind, and poor,

   And dying while they live.


   Since sin has filled the earth with woe,

   And creatures fade and die;

   Lord wean our hearts from things below,

   And fix our hopes on high.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [6] See also Book 2, Hymn 6
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 55

   William Cowper

   8,8,8,8

   Vanity of the world.


   God gives his mercies to be spent;

   "Your hoard will do your soul no good:

   Gold is a blessing only lent,

   Repaid by giving others food.


   The world's esteem is but a bribe,

   To buy their peace you fell your own;

   The slave of a vain-glorious tribe,

   Who hate you while they make you known.


   The Joy that vain amusements give,

   O! sad conclusion that it brings!

   The honey of a crowded hive,

   Defended by a thousand stings.


   'Tis thus the world rewards the fools

   That live upon her treach'rous smiles;

   She leads them, blindfold, by her rules,

   And ruins all whom she beguiles.


   God knows the thousands who go down

   From pleasure, into endless woe;

   And with a long despairing groan

   Blaspheme their Maker as they go.


   O fearful thought! be timely wise;

   Delight but in a Savior's charms;

   And God shall take you to the skies,

   Embraced in everlasting arms.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 56

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   Vanity of the creature sanctified.


   Honey though the bee prepares,

   An envenomed sting he wears;

   Piercing thorns a guard compose

   Round the fragrant blooming rose.


   Where we think to find a sweet,

   Oft a painful sting we meet:

   When the rose invites our eye,

   We forget the thorn is nigh.


   Why are thus our hopes beguiled?

   Why are all our pleasures spoiled?

   Why do agony and woe

   From our choicest comforts grow?


   Sin has been the cause of all!

   'Twas not thus before the fall:

   What but pain, and thorn, and sting,

   From the root of sin can spring?


   Now with every good we find

   Vanity and grief entwined;

   What we feel, or what we fear,

   All our joys embitter here.


   Yet, through the Redeemer's love,

   These afflictions blessings prove;

   He the wounding stings and thorns,

   Into healing med'cines turns.


   From the earth our hearts they wean,

   Teach us on his arm to lean;

   Urge us to a throne of grace,

   Make us seek a resting place.


   In the mansions of our King

   Sweets abound without a sting;

   Thornless there the roses blow,

   And the joys unmingled flow.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  SONG OF SOLOMON
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 57

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The name of Jesus.
   SS 1:3


   How sweet the name of Jesus sounds

   In a believer's ear?

   It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,

   And drives away his fear.


   It makes the wounded spirit whole,

   And calms the troubled breast;

   'Tis Manna to the hungry soul,

   And to the weary rest.


   Dear name! the rock on which I build,

   My shield and hiding place;

   My never-failing treas'ry filled

   With boundless stores of grace.


   By thee my prayers acceptance gain,

   Although with sin defiled,

   Satan accuses me in vain,

   And I am owned a child.


   Jesus! my Shepherd, Husband, Friend,

   My Prophet, Priest, and King;

   My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,

   Accept the praise I bring.


   Weak is the effort of my heart,

   And cold my warmest thought;

   But when I see thee as thou art,

   I'll praise thee as I ought.


   'Till then I would thy love proclaim

   With every fleeting breath,

   And may the music of thy name

   Refresh my soul in death.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 58

   William Cowper

   7,7,7,7

   O LORD, I will praise thee!
   Isa 12


   I Will praise thee every day

   Now thine anger's turned away!

   Comfortable thoughts arise

   From the bleeding sacrifice.


   Here in the fair gospel field,

   Wells of free salvation yield

   Streams of life, a plenteous store,

   And my soul shall thirst no more.


   Jesus is become at length

   My salvation and my strength;

   And his praises shall prolong,

   While I live, my pleasant song.


   Praise ye, then, his glorious name,

   Publish his exalted fame!

   Still his worth your praise exceeds,

   Excellent are all his deeds.


   Raise again the joyful sound,

   Let the nations roll it round!

   Zion shout, for this is he,

   God the Savior dwells in thee.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 59

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The Refuge, River, and Rock of the Church.
   Isa 32:2


   He who on earth as man was known,

   And bore our sins and pains;

   Now, seated on th' eternal throne,

   The God of glory reigns.


   His hands the wheels of nature guide

   With an unerring skill;

   And countless worlds extended wide,

   Obey his sovereign will.


   While harps unnumbered sound his praise,

   In yonder world above;

   His saints on earth admire his ways,

   And glory in his love.


   His righteousness, to faith revealed,

   Wrought out for guilty worms,

   Affords a hiding place and shield,

   From enemies and storms.


   This land, through which his pilgrims go,

   Is desolate and dry;

   But streams of grace from him o'erflow

   Their thirst to satisfy.


   When troubles, like a burning sun,

   Beat heavy on their head;

   To this almighty Rock they run,

   And find a pleasing shade.


   How glorious he! how happy they

   In such a glorious friend!

   Whose love secures them all the way,

   And crowns them at the end.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 60

   John Newton

   8,7,8,7

   Zion, or the city of God [7]
   Isa 33:27,28


   Glorious things of thee are spoken,
   Ps 87:3

   Zion, city of our God!

   He, whose word cannot be broken,

   Formed thee for his own abode:
   Ps 132:14

   On the rock of ages founded,
   Mt 16:16

   What can shake thy sure repose?

   With salvation's walls surrounded
   Isa 26:1

   Thou may'st smile at all thy foes.


   See! the streams of living waters

   Springing from eternal love;
   Ps 46:4

   Well supply thy sons and daughters,

   And all fear of want remove:

   Who can faint while such a river

   Ever flows their thirst t' assuage?

   Grace, which like the LORD, the giver,

   Never fails from age to age.


   Round each habitation hov'ring

   See the cloud and fire appear!
   Isa 4:5,6

   For a glory and a cov'ring,

   Showing that the LORD is near:

   Thus deriving from their banner

   Light by night and shade by day;

   Safe they feed upon the Manna

   Which he gives them when they pray.


   Blest inhabitants of Zion,

   Washed in the Redeemer's blood!

   Jesus, whom their souls rely on,

   Makes them kings and priests to GOD:
   Rev 1:6

   'Tis his love his people raises

   Over self to reign as kings

   And as priests, his solemn praises

   Each for a thank-offering brings.


   Savior, if of Zion's city

   I through grace a member am;

   Let the world deride or pity,

   I will glory in thy name

   Fading is the worldling's pleasure,

   All his boasted pomp and show;

   Solid joys and lasting treasure,

   None but Zion's children know.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [7] See also Book 2, Hymn 24
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 61

   John Newton

   8,7,8,7

   Look unto me, and be ye saved.
   Isa 45:22


   As the serpent raised by Moses
   Num 21:9

   Healed the burning serpent's bite;

   JESUS thus himself discloses

   To the wounded sinner's sight:

   Hear his gracious invitation,

   "I have life and peace to give,

   I have wrought out full salvation,

   Sinner, look to me and live.


   Pore upon your sins no longer,

   Well I know their mighty guilt;

   But my love than death is stronger,

   I my blood have freely spilt:

   Though your heart has long been hardened,

   Look on me--it soft shall grow;

   Past transgressions shall be pardoned,

   And I'll wash you white as snow.


   I have seen what you were doing,

   Though you little thought of me;

   You were madly bent on ruin,

   But I said--It shall not be:

   You had been for ever wretched,

   Had I not espoused your part;

   Now behold my arms outstretched

   To receive you to my heart.


   Well may shame, and joy, and wonder,

   All your inward passions move;

   I could crush thee with my thunder,

   But I speak to thee in love:

   See! your sins are all forgiven,

   I have paid the countless sum!

   Now my death has opened heaven,

   Thither you shall shortly come."


   Dearest Savior, we adore thee

   For thy precious life and death;

   Melt each stubborn heart before thee,

   Give us all the eye of faith:

   From the law's condemning sentence,

   To thy mercy we appeal;

   Thou alone canst give repentance,

   Thou alone our souls canst heal.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 62

   John Newton

   7,6,7,6

   The good Physician.


   How lost was my condition

   Till JESUS made me whole!

   There is but one Physician

   Can cure a sin-sick soul.

   Next door to death he found me,

   And snatched me from the grave,

   To tell to all around me,

   His wondrous pow'r to save.


   The worst of all diseases

   Is light, compared with sin;

   On every part it seizes,

   But rages most within:

   'Tis palsy, plague, and fever,

   And madness--all combined;

   And none but a believer

   The least relief can find.


   From men great skill professing

   I thought a cure to gain;

   But this proved more distressing,

   And added to my pain:

   Some said that nothing ailed me,

   Some gave me up for lost;

   Thus every refuge failed me,

   And all my hopes were crossed.


   At length this great Physician,

   How matchless is his grace!

   Accepted my petition,

   And undertook my case:

   First gave me sight to view him,

   For sin my eyes had sealed;

   Then bid me look unto him,

   I looked, and I was healed.


   A dying, risen Jesus,

   Seen by the eye of faith;

   At once from danger frees us,

   And saves the soul from death:

   Come then to this Physician,

   His help he'll freely give;

   He makes no hard condition,

   'Tis only--look and live.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 63

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   To the afflicted, tossed with tempests and not comforted.
   Isa 44:5-11


   Pensive, doubting, fearful heart,

   Hear what CHRIST the Savior says;

   Every word should joy impart,

   Change thy mourning into praise:

   Yes, he speaks, and speaks to thee,

   May he help thee to believe!

   Then thou presently wilt see,

   Thou hast little cause to grieve.


   "Fear thou not, nor be ashamed,

   All thy sorrows soon shall end

   I who heav'n and earth have framed,

   Am thy husband and thy friend

   I the High and Holy One,

   Israel's GOD by all adored;

   As thy Savior will be known,

   Thy Redeemer and thy Lord.


   For a moment I withdrew,

   And thy heart was filled with pain;

   But my mercies I'll renew,

   Thou shalt soon rejoice again:

   Though I scorn to hide my face,

   Very soon my wrath shall cease;

   'Tis but for a moment's space,

   Ending in eternal peace.


   When my peaceful bow appears
   Gen 9:13,14

   Painted on the wat'ry cloud;

   'Tis to dissipate thy fears,

   Lest the earth should be o'erflowed:

   'Tis an emblem too of grace,

   Of my cov'nant love a sign;

   Though the mountains leave their place,

   Thou shalt be for ever mine.


   Though afflicted, tempest-tossed,

   Comfortless awhile thou art,

   Do not think thou canst be lost,

   Thou art graven on my heart

   All thy walls I will repair,

   Thou shalt be rebuilt anew;

   And in thee it shall appear,

   What a God of love can do.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 64

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   The contrite heart.
   Isa 47:15


   The LORD will happiness divine

   On contrite hearts bestow:

   Then tell me, gracious GOD, is mine

   A contrite heart, or no?


   I hear, but seem to hear in vain,

   Insensible as steel;

   If ought is felt, 'tis only pain,

   To find I cannot feel.


   I sometimes think myself inclined

   To love thee, if I could;

   But often feel another mind,

   Averse to all that's good.


   My best desires are faint and few,

   I fain would strive for more;

   But when I cry, "My strength renew,"

   Seem weaker than before.


   Thy saints are comforted I know,

   And love thy house of prayer;

   I therefore go where others go,

   But find no comfort there.


   O make this heart rejoice, or ache;

   Decide this doubt for me;

   And if it be not broken, break,

   And heal it, if it be.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 65

   William Cowper

   8,7,8,7

   The future peace and glory of the church.
   Isa 60:15-20


   Hear what God the LORD hath spoken,

   O my people, faint and few;

   Comfortless, afflicted, broken,

   Fair abodes I build for you:

   Themes of heart-felt tribulation

   Shall no more perplex your ways;

   You shall name your walls, Salvation,

   And your gates shall all be praise.


   There, like streams that feed the garden,

   Pleasures, without end, shall flow;

   For the LORD, your faith rewarding,

   All his bounty shall bestow:

   Still in undisturbed possession,

   Peace and righteousness shall reign;

   Never shall you feel oppression,

   Hear the voice of war again.


   Ye no more your suns descending,

   Waning moons no more shall see,

   But your griefs, for ever ending,

   Find eternal noon in me:

   God shall rise, and shining o'er you,

   Change to day the gloom of night;

   He, the Lord, shall be your glory,

   GOD your everlasting light.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  JEREMIAH
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 66

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Trust of the wicked, and the righteous compared.
   Jer 17:5-8


   As parched in the barren sands

   Beneath a burning sky,

   The worthless bramble with'ring stands,

   And only grows to die.


   Such is the sinner's aweful case,

   Who makes the world his trust;

   And dares his confidence to place

   In vanity and dust.


   A secret curse destroys his root,

   And dries his moisture up;

   He lives awhile, but bears no fruit,

   Then dies without a hope.


   But happy he whose hopes depend

   Upon the LORD alone;

   The soul that trusts in such a friend,

   Can ne'er be overthrown.


   Though gourds should wither, cisterns break,

   And creature-comforts die;

   No change his solid hope can shake,

   Or stop his sure supply.


   So thrives and blooms the tree whose roots

   By constant streams are fed;

   Arrayed in green, and rich in fruits,

   It rears its branching head.


   It thrives, though rain should be denied,

   And drought around prevail;

   'Tis planted by a river's side

   Whose waters cannot fail.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 67

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   JEHOVAH our righteousness.
   Jer 23:6


   My God! how perfect are thy ways!

   But mine polluted are;

   Sin twines itself about my praise,

   And slides into my prayer.


   When I would speak what thou hast done

   To save me from my sin;

   I cannot make thy mercies known

   But self-applause creeps in.


   Divine desire, that holy flame

   Thy grace creates in me;

   Alas! impatience is its name,

   When it returns to thee.


   This heart, a fountain of vile thoughts,

   How does it overflow?

   While self upon the surface floats

   Still bubbling from below.


   Let others in the gaudy dress

   Of fancied merit shine;

   The LORD shall be my righteousness

   The LORD for ever mine.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 68

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   EPHRAIM repenting.
   Jer 31:18-20


   My God! till I received thy stroke,

   How like a beast was I!

   So unaccustomed to the yoke,

   So backward to comply.


   With grief my just reproach I bear,

   Shame fills me at the thought;

   How frequent my rebellions were!

   What wickedness I wrought!


   Thy merciful restraint I scorned

   And left the pleasant road;

   Yet turn me, and I shall be turned,

   Thou art the Lord my God.


   Is Ephraim banished from my thoughts,

   Or vile in my esteem?

   No, saith the LORD, with all his faults,

   I shall remember him.


   Is he a dear and pleasant child?

   Yes, dear and pleasant still;

   Though sin his foolish heart beguiled,

   And he withstood my will.


   My sharp rebuke has laid him low,

   He seeks my face again;

   My pity kindles at his woe,

   He shall not seek in vain.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  LAMENTATIONS
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 69

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The LORD is my portion.
   Lam 3:24


   From pole to pole let others roam,

   And search in vain for bliss;

   My soul is satisfied at home,

   The Lord my portion is.


   Jesus, who on his glorious throne

   Rules heav'n and earth and sea;

   Is pleased to claim me for his own,

   And give himself to me.


   His person fixes all my love,

   His blood removes my fear;

   And while he pleads for me above,

   His arm preserves me here.


   His word of promise is my food,

   His Spirit is my guide;

   Thus daily is my strength renewed

   And all my wants supplied. [8]


   For him I count as gain each loss,

   Disgrace, for him, renown;

   Well may I glory in his cross,

   While he prepares my crown!


   Let worldlings then indulge their boast,

   How much they gain or spend!

   Their joys must soon give up the ghost,

   But mine shall know no end.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [8] See also Book 3, Hymn 59
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  EZEKIEL
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 70

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Humbled and silenced by mercy.
   Ezek 16:64


   Once perishing in blood I lay,

   Creatures no help could give,

   But Jesus passed me in the way,

   He saw, and bid me live.


   Though Satan still his rule maintained,

   And all his arts employed;

   That mighty Word his rage restrained,

   I could not be destroyed.


   At length the time of love arrived

   When I my LORD should know,

   Then Satan, of his pow'r deprived,

   Was forced to let me go.


   O can I e'er that day forget

   When Jesus kindly spoke!

   "Poor soul, my blood has paid thy debt,

   And now I break thy yoke.


   Henceforth I take thee for my own,

   And give myself to thee;

   Forsake the idols thou hast known,

   And yield thyself to me."


   Ah, worthless heart! it promised fair,

   And said it would be thine;

   I little thought it e'er would dare

   Again with idols join.


   LORD, dost thou such backslidings heal,

   And pardon all that's past?

   Sure, if I am not made of steel,

   Thou hast prevailed at last.


   My tongue, which rashly spoke before,

   This mercy will restrain;

   Surely I now shall boast no more,

   Nor censure, nor complain.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 71

   William Cowper

   8,8,8,8

   The covenant.
   Ezek 36:25-28


   The Lord proclaims his grace abroad!

   Behold, I change your hearts of stone;

   Each shall renounce his idol god,

   And serve, henceforth, the LORD alone.


   My grace, a flowing stream, proceeds

   To wash your filthiness away;

   Ye shall abhor your former deeds,

   And learn my statutes to obey.


   My truth the great design insures,

   I give myself away to you;

   You shall be mine, I will be yours,

   Your GOD unalterably true.


   Yet not unsought, or unimplored,

   The plenteous grace shall I confer;
   Ezek 36:37

   No--your whole hearts shall seek the Lord,

   I'll put a praying spirit there.


   From the first breath of life divine,

   Down to the last expiring hour;

   The gracious work shall all be mine,

   Begun and ended in my pow'r.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 72

   William Cowper

   8,8,8,8

   JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH.
   Ezek 48:33


   As birds their infant brood protect,
   Is 31:5

   And spread their wings to shelter them;

   Thus saith the LORD to his elect,

   "So will I guard Jerusalem."


   And what then is Jerusalem,

   This darling object of his care?

   Where is its worth in God's esteem,

   Who built it? who inhabits there?


   Jehovah founded it in blood,

   The blood of his incarnate Son;

   There dwell the saints, once foes to God,

   The sinners, whom he calls his own.


   There, though besieged on every side,

   Yet much beloved and guarded well;

   From age to age they have defied,

   The utmost force of earth and hell.


   Let earth repent, and hell despair,

   This city has a sure defence;

   Her name is called, the LORD is there,

   And who has pow'r to drive him thence.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  DANIEL
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 73

   John Newton

   6,6,6,6,8,8

   The power and triumph of faith.
   Dan 3:6


   Supported by the word,

   Though in himself a worm,

   The servant of the LORD

   Can wondrous acts perform:

   Without dismay he boldly treads

   Where'er the path of duty leads.


   The haughty king in vain,

   With fury on his brow,

   Believers would constrain

   To golden gods to bow:

   The furnace could not make them fear,

   Because they knew the Lord was near.


   As vain was the decree

   Which charged them not to pray;

   Daniel still bowed his knee,

   And worshiped thrice a day:

   Trusting in God, he feared not men,

   Though threatened with the lion's den.


   Secure they might refuse

   Compliance with such laws,

   For what had they to lose,

   When GOD espoused their cause?

   He made the hungry lions crouch,

   Nor durst the fire his children touch.


   The Lord is still the same,

   A mighty shield and tow'r,

   And they who trust his name

   Are guarded by his pow'r:

   He can the rage of lions tame,

   And bear them harmless through the flame.


   Yet we too often shrink

   When trials are in view;

   Expecting we must sink,

   And never can get through.

   But could we once believe indeed,

   From all these fears we should be freed.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 74

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   BELSHAZZAR.
   Dan 5:5,6


   Poor sinners! little do they think

   With whom they have to do!

   But stand securely on the brink

   Of everlasting woe.


   Belshazzar thus, profanely bold,

   The Lord of hosts defied;

   But vengeance soon his boasts controlled,

   And humbled all his pride.


   He saw a hand upon the wall

   (And trembled on his throne)

   Which wrote his sudden dreadful fall

   In characters unknown.


   Why should he tremble at the view

   Of what he could not read?

   Foreboding conscience quickly knew

   His ruin was decreed.


   See him o'erwhelmed with deep distress!

   His eyes with anguish roll;

   His looks, and loosened joints, express

   The terrors of his soul.


   His pomp and music, guests and wine,

   No more delight afford;

   O sinner, ere this case be thine,

   Begin to seek the LORD.


   The law like this hand-writing stands,

   And speaks the wrath of God;
   Col 2:14

   But JESUS answers its demands,

   And cancels it with blood.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  JONAH
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 75

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   The gourd.
   Jonah 4:7


   As once for Jonah, so the Lord

   To soothe and cheer my mournful hours,

   Prepared for me a pleasing gourd,

   Cool was its shade, and sweet its flow'rs.


   To prize his gift was surely right;

   But through the folly of my heart,

   It hid the Giver from my sight,

   And soon my joy was changed to smart.


   While I admired its beauteous form,

   Its pleasant shade and graceful fruit;

   The LORD, displeased, sent forth a worm,

   Unseen, to prey upon the root.


   I trembled when I saw it fade,

   But guilt restrained the murm'ring word;

   My folly I confessed, and prayed,

   Forgive my sin, and spare my gourd.


   His wondrous love can ne'er be told,

   He heard me and relieved my pain;

   His word the threat'ning worm controlled,

   And bid my gourd revive again.


   Now, Lord, my gourd is mine no more,

   'Tis thine, who only couldst it raise;

   The idol of my heart before,

   Henceforth shall flourish to thy praise.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  ZECHARIAH
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 76

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   Prayer for the Lord's promised presence.
   Zech 2:10


   Son of God! thy people's shield!

   Must we still thine absence mourn?

   Let thy promise be fulfilled,

   Thou hast said, "I will return!"


   Gracious Leader now appear,

   Shine upon us with thy light!

   Like the spring, when thou art near,

   Days and suns are doubly bright.


   As a mother counts the days

   Till her absent son she see;

   Longs and watches, weeps and prays,

   So our spirits long for thee.


   Come, and let us feel thee nigh,

   Then thy sheep shall feed in peace;

   Plenty bless us from on high,

   Evil from amongst us cease.


   With thy love, and voice, and aid,

   Thou canst every care assuage;

   Then we shall not be afraid,

   Though the world and Satan rage.


   Thus each day for thee we'll spend,

   While our callings we pursue;

   And the thoughts of such a friend

   Shall each night our joy renew.


   Let thy light be ne'er withdrawn,

   Golden days afford us long!

   Thus we pray at early dawn,

   This shall be our evening song.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 77

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   A brand plucked out of the fire.
   Zech 3:1-5


   With Satan, my accuser near,

   My spirit trembled when I saw

   The LORD in majesty appear,

   And heard the language of his law.


   In vain I wished and strove to hide

   The tattered filthy rags I wore;

   While my fierce foe, insulting cried,

   "See what you trusted in before!"


   Struck dumb, and left without a plea,

   I heard my gracious Savior say,

   "Know, Satan, I this sinner free,

   I died to take his sins away.


   This is a brand which I in love,

   To save from wrath and sin design;

   In vain thy accusations prove,

   I answer all, and claim him mine."


   At his rebuke the tempter fled;

   Then he removed my filthy dress;

   "Poor sinner take this robe, he said,

   It is thy Savior's righteousness.


   And see, a crown of life prepared!

   That I might thus thy head adorn;

   I thought no shame or suff'ring hard,

   But wore, for thee, a crown of thorn."


   O how I heard these gracious words!

   They broke and healed my heart at once;

   Constrained me to become the Lord's,

   And all my idol-gods renounce.


   Now, Satan, thou hast lost thy aim,

   Against this brand thy threats are vain;

   JESUS has plucked it from the flame,

   And who shall put it in again?
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 78

   John Newton

   8,7,8,7,11

   On one stone shall be seven eyes.
   Zech 3:9


   Jesus Christ, the Lord's anointed,

   Who his blood for sinners spilt;

   Is the Stone by God appointed,

   And the church is on him built:

   He delivers all who trust him from their guilt.


   Many eyes at once are fixed

   On a person so divine;

   Love, with aweful justice mixed,

   In his great redemption shine:

   Mighty JESUS! give me leave to call thee mine.


   By the Father's eye approved,

   Lo, a voice is heard from heav'n,
   Mt 3:17

   "Sinners, this is my Beloved,

   For your ransom freely given:

   All offences, for his sake, shall be forgiven."


   Angels with their eyes pursued him,
   1Tim 3:16

   When he left his glorious throne;

   With astonishment they viewed him

   Put the form of servant on:

   Angels worshipped him who was on earth unknown.


   Satan and his host amazed,

   Saw this stone in Zion laid;

   Jesus, though to death abased,

   Bruised the subtle serpent's head:
   Jn 12:31

   When to save us, on the cross his blood he shed.


   When a guilty sinner sees him,

   While he looks his soul is healed;

   Soon this sight from anguish frees him,

   And imparts a pardon sealed:
   Jn 3:15

   May this Savior be to all our hearts revealed!


   With desire and admiration,

   All his blood-bought flock behold;

   Him who wrought out their salvation,

   And enclosed them in his fold:
   1Pet 2:7

   Yet their warmest love, and praises, are too cold.


   By the eye of carnal reason

   Many view him with disdain;
   Ps 118:22

   How will they abide the season

   When he'll come with all his train:

   To escape him then they'll wish, but wish in vain.


   How their hearts will melt and tremble

   When they hear his aweful voice;
   Rev 1:7

   But his saints he'll then assemble,

   As his portion and his choice;

   And receive them to his everlasting joys.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 79

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   Praise for the fountain opened.
   Zech 13:1


   There is a fountain filled with blood

   Drawn from EMMANUEL'S veins;

   And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,

   Loose all their guilty stains.


   The dying thief rejoiced to see

   That fountain in his day;

   And there have I, as vile as he,

   Washed all my sins away.


   Dear dying Lamb, thy precious blood

   Shall never lose its pow'r;

   Till all the ransomed church of God

   Be saved, to sin no more.


   E'er since, by faith, I saw the stream

   Thy flowing wounds supply:

   Redeeming love has been my theme,

   And shall be till I die.


   Then in a nobler sweeter song

   I'll sing thy pow'r to save

   When this poor lisping stamm'ring tongue

   Lies silent in the grave.


   Lord, I believe thou hast prepared

   (Unworthy though I be)

   For me a blood-bought free reward,

   A golden harp for me!


   'Tis strung, and tuned, for endless years,

   And formed by pow'r divine;

   To sound, in God the Father's ears,

   No other name but thine.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  MALACHI
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 80

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   They shall he mine, saith the Lord.
   Mal 3:16-18


   When sinners utter boasting words,

   And glory in their shame;

   The LORD, well-pleased, an ear affords

   To those who fear his name.


   They often meet to seek his face,

   And what they do, or say,

   Is noted in his book of grace

   Against another day.


   For they, by faith, a day descry,

   And joyfully expect,

   When he, descending from the sky,

   His jewels will collect.


   Unnoticed now, because unknown,

   A poor and suff'ring few;

   He comes to claim them for his own,

   And bring them forth to view.


   With transport then their Savior's care

   And favor they shall prove;

   As tender parents guard and spare

   The children of their love.


   Assembled worlds will then discern

   The saints alone are blest;

   When wrath shall like an oven burn,

   And vengeance strike the rest.
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

  MATTHEW
     __________________________________________________________________
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 81

   John Newton

   6,6,6,6,8,8

   The beggar.
   Mt 7:7-8


   Encouraged by thy word

   Of promise to the poor;

   Behold, a beggar, LORD,

   Waits at thy mercy's door!

   No hand, no heart, O LORD, but thine,

   Can help or pity wants like mine.


   The beggar's usual plea

   Relief from men to gain,

   If offered unto thee,

   I know thou would'st disdain:

   And pleas which move thy gracious ear,

   Are such as men would scorn to hear.


   I have no right to say

   That though I now am poor,

   Yet once there was a day

   When I possessed more:

   Thou know'st that from my very birth,

   I've been the poorest wretch on earth.


   Nor can I dare profess,

   As beggars often do,

   Though great is my distress,

   My wants have been but few:

   If thou shouldst leave my soul to starve,

   It would be what I well deserve.


   'Twere folly to pretend

   I never begged before;

   Or if thou now befriend,

   I'll trouble thee no more:

   Thou often hast relieved my pain,

   And often I must come again.


   Though crumbs are much too good

   For such a dog as I;

   No less than children's food

   My soul can satisfy:

   O do not frown and bid me go,

   I must have all thou canst bestow.


   Nor can I willing be

   Thy bounty to conceal

   From others, who like me,

   Their wants and hunger feel:

   I'll tell them of thy mercy's store,

   And try to send a thousand more.


   Thy thoughts, thou only wise!

   Our thoughts and ways transcend,

   Far as the arched skies

   Above the earth extend:
   Isa 45:8,9

   Such pleas as mine men would not bear,

   But God receives a beggar's prayer.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 82

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   The leper.
   Mt 8:23


   Oft as the leper's case I read,

   My own described I feel;

   Sin is a leprosy indeed,

   Which none but CHRIST can heal.


   Awhile I would have passed for well,

   And strove my spots to hide;

   Till it broke out incurable,

   Too plain to be denied.


   Then from the saints I sought to flee,

   And dreaded to be seen;

   I thought they all would point at me,

   And cry, "Unclean, unclean!"


   What anguish did my soul endure,

   Till hope and patience ceased?

   The more I strove myself to cure,

   The more the plague increased.


   While thus I lay distressed, I saw

   The Savior passing by;

   To him, though filled with shame and awe,

   I raised my mournful cry.


   LORD, thou canst heal me if thou wilt,

   For thou canst all things do;

   O cleanse my leprous soul from guilt,

   My filthy heart renew!


   He heard, and with a gracious look,

   Pronounced the healing word;

   "I will, be clean" -- and while he spoke

   I felt my health restored.


   Come lepers, seize the present hour,

   The Savior's grace to prove;

   He can relieve, for he is pow'r,

   He will, for he is love.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 83

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   A sick soul
   Mt 9:12


   Physician of my sin-sick soul,

   To thee I bring my case;

   My raging malady control,

   And heal me by thy grace.


   Pity the anguish I endure,

   See how I mourn and pine;

   For never can I hope a cure

   From any hand but thine.


   I would disclose my whole complaint,

   But where shall I begin?

   No words of mine can fully paint

   That worst distemper, sin.


   It lies not in a single part,

   But through my frame is spread;

   A burning fever in my heart,

   A palsy in my head.


   It makes me deaf, and dumb, and blind,

   And impotent and lame;

   And overclouds, and fills my mind,

   With folly, fear, and shame.


   A thousand evil thoughts intrude

   Tumultuous in my breast;

   Which indispose me for my food,

   And rob me of my rest.


   Lord I am sick, regard my cry,

   And set my spirit free;

   Say, canst thou let a sinner die,

   Who longs to live to thee?
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 84

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Satan returning.
   Mt 12:43-45


   When Jesus claims the sinner's heart,

   Where Satan ruled before;

   The evil spirit must depart,

   And dares return no more.


   But when he goes without constraint,

   And wanders from his home;

   Although withdrawn, 'tis but a feint,

   He means again to come.


   Some outward change perhaps is seen

   If Satan quit the place;

   But though the house seem swept and clean,

   'Tis destitute of grace.


   Except the Savior dwell and reign

   Within the sinner's mind;

   Satan, when he returns again,

   Will easy entrance find.


   With rage and malice sevenfold,

   He then resumes his sway;

   No more by checks to be controlled,

   No more to go away.


   The sinner's former state was bad,

   But worse the latter far;

   He lives possessed, and blind, and mad,

   And dies in dark despair.


   Lord save me from this dreadful end!

   And from this heart of mine,

   O drive and keep away the fiend

   Who fears no voice but thine.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 85

   William Cowper

   8,6,8,6

   The sower.
   Mt 13:3


   Ye sons of earth prepare the plow,

   Break up your fallow ground!

   The Sower is gone forth to sow,

   And scatter blessings round.


   The seed that finds a stony soil,

   Shoots forth a hasty blade;

   But ill repays the sower's toil,

   Soon withered, scorched, and dead.


   The thorny ground is sure to baulk

   All hopes of harvest there;

   We find a tall and sickly stalk,

   But not the fruitful ear.


   The beaten path and highway side

   Receive the trust in vain

   The watchful birds the spoil divide,

   And pick up all the grain.


   But where the Lord of grace and pow'r

   Has blessed the happy field;

   How plenteous is the golden store

   The deep-wrought furrows yield!


   Father of mercies we have need

   Of thy preparing grace;

   Let the same hand that gives the seed,

   Provide a fruitful place.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 86

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8

   The wheat and tares.
   Mt 13:37-42


   Though in the outward church below

   The wheat and tares together grow;

   Jesus ere long will weed the crop,

   And pluck the tares, in anger, up.


   Will it relieve their horrors there,

   To recollect their stations here?

   How much they heard, how much they knew,

   How long amongst the wheat they grew!


   O! this will aggravate their case!

   They perished under means of grace;

   To them the word of life and faith,

   Became an instrument of death.


   We seem alike when thus we meet,

   Strangers might think we all are wheat;

   But to the Lord's all-searching eyes,

   Each heart appears without disguise.


   The tares are spared for various ends,

   Some, for the sake of praying friends;

   Others, the LORD, against their will,

   Employs his counsels to fulfill.


   But though they grow so tall and strong,

   His plan will not require them long;

   In harvest, when he saves his own,

   The tares shall into hell be thrown.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 87

   John Newton

   8,6,8,6

   Peter walking upon the water.
   Mt 14:28-31


   A Word from JESUS calms the sea,

   The stormy wind controls;

   And gives repose and liberty

   To tempest-tossed souls.


   To Peter on the waves he came,

   And gave him instant peace;

   Thus he to me revealed his name,

   And bid my sorrows cease.


   Then filled with wonder, joy and love,

   Peter's request was mine;

   LORD, call me down, I long to prove

   That I am wholly thine.


   Unmoved at all I have to meet

   On life's tempestuous sea;

   Hard, shall be easy; bitter, sweet,

   So I may follow thee.


   He heard and smiled, and bid me try,

   I eagerly obeyed;

   But when from him I turned my eye,

   How was my soul dismayed!


   The storm increased on every side,

   I felt my spirit shrink;

   And soon, with Peter, loud I cried,

   LORD, save me, or I sink."


   Kindly he caught me by the hand,

   And said, "Why dost thou fear?

   Since thou art come at my command,

   And I am always near.


   Upon my promise rest thy hope,

   And keep my love in view;

   I stand engaged to hold thee up,

   And guide thee safely through."
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 88

   John Newton

   7,7,7,7

   Woman of Canaan.
   Mt 15:22-28


   Prayer an answer will obtain,

   Though the Lord awhile delay;

   None shall seek his face in vain,

   None be empty sent away.


   When the woman came from Tyre,

   And for help to JESUS sought;

   Though he granted her desire,

   Yet at first he answered not.


   Could she guess at his intent,

   When he to his follow'rs said,

   "I to Israel's sheep am sent,

   Dogs must not have children's bread."


   She was not of Israel's seed,

   But of Canaan's wretched race;

   Thought herself a dog indeed;

   Was not this a hopeless case?


   Yet although from Canaan sprung,

   Though a dog herself she styled;

   She had Israel's faith and tongue,

   And was owned for Abraham's child.


   From his words she draws a plea;

   Though unworthy children's bread,

   'Tis enough for one like me,

   If with crumbs I may be fed.


   Jesus then his heart revealed,

   "Woman canst thou thus believe?

   I to thy petition yield,

   All that thou canst wish, receive.


   'Tis a pattern set for us,

   How we ought to wait and pray;

   None who plead and wrestle thus,

   Shall be empty sent away.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 89

   John Newton

   8,8,8,8a

   What think ye of Christ?
   Mt 22:42


   What think you of Christ? is the test

   To try both your state and your scheme;

   You cannot be right in the rest,

   Unless you think rightly of him.

   As Jesus appears in your view,

   As he is beloved or not;

   So God is disposed to you,

   And mercy or wrath are your lot.


   Some take him a creature to be,

   A man, or an angel at most;

   Sure these have not feelings like me,

   Nor know themselves wretched and lost:

   So guilty, so helpless, am I,

   I durst not confide in his blood,

   Nor on his protection rely,

   Unless I were sure he is God.


   Some call him a Savior, in word,

   But mix their own works with his plan;

   And hope he his help will afford,

   When they have done all that they can:

   If doings prove rather too light

   (A little, they own, they may fail)

   They purpose to make up full weight,

   By casting his name in the scale.


   Some style him the pearl of great price,

   And say he's the fountain of joys;

   Yet feed upon folly and vice,

   And cleave to the world and its toys:

   Like Judas, the Savior they kiss,

   And, while they salute him, betray;

   Ah! what will profession like this

   Avail in his terrible day?


   If asked what of JESUS I think?

   Though still my best thoughts are but poor;

   I say, he's my meat and my drink,

   My life, and my strength, and my store,

   My Shepherd, my Husband, my Friend,

   My Savior from sin and from thrall;

   My hope from beginning to end,

   My Portion, my LORD, and my All.
     __________________________________________________________________

Hymn 90

   John Newton

   7,6,7,6,7,7,7,6

   The foolish virgins [9]
   Mt 25:1


   When descending from the sky

   The Bridegroom shall appear;

   And the solemn midnight cry,

   Shall call professors near:

   How the sound our hearts will damp!

   How will shame o'erspread each face!

   If we only have a lamp,

   Without the oil of grace.


   Foolish virgins then will wake

   And seek for a supply;

   But in vain the pains they take

   To borrow or to buy:

   Then with those they now despise,

   Earnestly they'll wish to share;

   But the best, among the wise,

   Will have no oil to spare.


   Wise are they, and truly blest,

   Who then shall ready be

   But despair will seize the rest,

   And dreadful misery:

   Once, they'