Vainly through night’s weary hours,

Keep we watch lest foes alarm;

Vain our bulwarks, and our towers,

But for God’s protecting arm.

2 Vain were all our toil and labor,

Did not God that labor bless;

Vain, without his grace and favor,

Every talent we possess.

3 Vainer still the hope of heaven

That on human strength relies;

But to him shall help be given

Who in humble faith applies.

4 Seek we, then, the Lord’s Anointed;

He shall grant us peace and rest:

Ne’er was suppliant disappointed

Who through Christ his prayer addressed.