Psalms and hymns adapted to social, private and public worship in the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America
Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A
•5d #4^fc/w*f ■v<% s^Vv\ \x J PSALMS AND HYMNS ADAPTED TO SOCIAL, PRIVATE, AND PUBLIC WORSHIP IS THE pi a y^isjeea:.7 chili IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, APPROVED AND AUTHORIZED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. PHILADELPHIA: PRESBYTERIAN EOARD OF PUBLICATION. PAUL T. JONGS, PUBLISHING AGENT. 1843. Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1S-13, by A. W. Mi-rriiELL, M. D , in the olrice of the Clerk of the District Court for tne Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Printed by WILLIAM S. MARTIEN. Stereotyped by S. DOUGLAS WVETH. ADVERTISEMENT The want of some improvement in the existing Psalmody, and particularly of an enlarged and arranged collection of Hymns, suitable for public and private worship in the Presbyterian Church, has for a considerable time been felt and acknowledged. In the year 1838, a Committee was appointed by the General Assembly, to which was en- trusted the preparation of such a collection as would sup- ply the exigency, and, at the same time, such a modifica- tion or improvement in the present version of Psalms, as might be found to be practicable. After reporting, from time to time, the progress they had made, the result of their labours is submitted in the present volume. The Psalms have been left without alteration, the Committee believing that it would be extremely difficult to furnish a more ac- ceptable version than that of Watts. The Hymns, as may be seen, have undergone great and essential modifications. Agreeably to an act of the General Assembly in 1842, the Committee was directed, after having respectfully con- sidered any emendations which might in a limited time be suggested to it by individuals or Presbyteries, to publish the book, and submit it to the churches ; and at the same time authority was given to use it in the worship of God. The Hymns are arranged under a simple and obvious classification, a little acquaintance with which, will enable any person to find, with facility, hymns suited to particular occasions, or adapted to particular subjects. The collec- tion itself comprehends what were supposed to be the best hymns in the one now in use, with a large addition from other sources, and in sufficient variety, it is presumed, to meet all the wants of worshippers. 3 METRES. L. M. — Long Metre. C. M. — Common Metre. S. M.— Short Metre. H. M. — Hallelujah Metre. L. M. D.— Long Metre Double. C. L. M. — Common Long Metre. The other metres are distinguished by the number of syllables, as lis, 7s, 8s, &c. PSALMS. Psalm 1. first part. C. M. BLEST is the man who shuns the place Where sinners love to meet; Who fears to tread their wicked ways, And hates the scoffer's seat: 2 But in the statutes of the Lord Has placed his chief delight ; By day he reads or hears the word, And meditates by night. 3 He, like a plant of generous kind By living waters set, Safe from the storms and blasting wind, Enjoys a peaceful state. 4 Green as the leaf, and ever fair Shall his profession shine ; While fruits of holiness appear Like clusters on the vine. 5 Not so the impious and unjust ; What vain designs they form! Their hopes are blown away like dust, Or chaff before the storm. 6 Sinners in judgment shall not stand Among the sons of grace, When Christ the Judge, at his right hand, Appoints his saints a place. 7 His eye beholds the path they tread. His heart approves it well ; But crooked ways of sinners lead Down to the gates of hell. a 2 5 PSALM 1. Psalm 1. second part. S. M. THE man is ever blest, Who shuns the sinner's ways, Amonor their councils never stands, Nor takes the scorner's place: But makes the law of God His study and delight, Amidst the labours of the day, And watches of the night. He like a tree shall thrive, With waters near the root ; Fresh as the leaf his name shall live; His works are heavenly fruit. Not so th' ungodly, race ; They no such blessings find ; Their hopes shall flee like empty chaff Before the driving wind. How will they bear to stand Before that judgment seat, Where all the saints at Christ's right hand In full assembly meet ? He knows, and he approves The way the righteous go : But sinners and their works shall meet A dreadful overthrow. Psalm 1. third part. L. M. HAPPY the man whose cautious feet Shun the broad way where sinners go, Who hates the place where atheists meet, And fears to talk as scoffers do. He loves t' employ his morning light, Among the statutes of the Lord ; And spends the wakeful hours of night, With pleasure pondering o'er the word. PSALM 2. 7 He. like a plant by gentle streams, Shall flourish in immortal green ; And heaven will shine with kindest beams, On every work his hands begin. But sinners find their counsels crossed As chaff before the tempest flies, So shall their hopes be blown and lost, When the last trumpet shakes the skies. In vain the rebel seeks to stand In judgment with the pious race ; The dreadful Judge, with stern command, Divides him to a different place. " Straight is the way my saints have trod ; I Messed the path,, and drew it plain; But 'you would choose the crooked road ; And down it leads to endless pain." Psalm 2. first part. S. M. |"AKER and sovereign Lord Of heaven, and earth, and seas, Thy providence confirms thy word, And answers thy decrees. The things so long foretold By David, are fulfilled ; When Jews and Gentiles join to slay Jesus, thine Holy Child. Why did the Gentiles rage, And Jews with one accord Bend all their counsels to destroy Th' anointed of the Lord ? Rulers and kings agree To form a vain design : Against the Lord their powers unite, Against his Christ they join. PSALM 2. The Lord derides their rage, And will support his throne; He that hath raised him from the dead, Hath owned him for his Son. Psalm 2. second part. S. M. |UR Lord 9s ascended high, And rules the subject earth ; The merit of his blood he pleads, And pleads his heavenly birth. Beneath his sovereign sway The Gentile nations bend j Far as the world's remotest bounds His kingdom shall extend. The nations that rebel Must feel his iron rod : He'll vindicate those honours well, Which he received from God. Be wise, ye rulers, now, And worship at his throne ; With trembling joy, ye judges, bow To God's exalted Son. If once his wrath arise, Ye perish on the place ; Then blessed is the soul that flies For refuge to his grace- Psalm 2. third part. C. M. "¥7H Y did the nations join to slay ! * The Lord's anointed Son ? Why did they cast his laws away, And tread his gospel down ? The Lord that sits above the skies, Derides their rage below ; He speaks with vengeance in his eyes, And strikes their spirits through. PSALM 3. 3 I call him my eternal Son, And raise him from the dead; I make my holy hill his throne, And wide his kingdom spread. 4 " Ask me, my Son, and then enjoy The utmost heathen lands ; Thy rod of iron shall destroy The rebel that withstands." 5 Be wise, ye rulers of the earth, Obey th' anointed Lord ; Adore the King of heavenly birth, And tremble at his word. 6 With humble love address his throne ; For if he frown, ye die : Those are secure, and those alone, Who on his grace rely. Psalm 3. first part. C. M. "Y God, how many are my fears ! Howr fast my foes increase ! Conspiring my eternal death, They break my present peace. 2 The lying tempter would persuade There 's no relief in heaven, And all my growing sins appear Too great to be forgiven. 3 But thou, my glory and my strength, Shalt on the tempter tread : Shalt silence all my threatening guilt, And raise my drooping head. 4 I cried, and from his holy hill, He bowed a listening ear; I called my Father, and my God, And he subdued my fear. 10 PSALM 3. 5 He shed soft slumbers on mine eyes, In spite of all my foes : I woke and wondered at the grace That guarded my repose. 6 What though the hosts of death and hell, All armed, against me stood: Terrors no more shall shake my soul; My refuge is my God. 7 Arise, O Lord, fulfil thy grace. While I thy glory sing : My God hath broke the serpent's teeth, And death hath lost his sting. 8 Salvation to the Lord belongs; His arm alone can save : Blessings attend thy people here, And reach beyond the grave. Psalm 3. second part. L. M. |T| LORD, how many are my foes, V^ In this weak state of flesh and blood ! My peace they daily discompose, But my defence and hope is God. 2 Tired with the burdens of the day, To thee I raised an evening cry; Thou heard 'st when I began to pray, And thine almighty help was nigh. 3 Supported by thine heavenly aid I laid me down and slept secure : Not death should make my heart afraid, Though I should wake and rise no more. 4 But God sustained me all the night ; Salvation doth to God belong : He raised my head to see the light, And makes his praise my morning song. o PSALM 1. 1] Psalm 4. first part. L. M« GOD of grace and righteousness, Hear and attend when I complain : Thou hast enlarged me in distress, Bow down a gracious ear again. 2 Ye sons of men, in vain ye try To turn my glory into shame ; How long will scoffers love to lie, And dare reproach my Saviour's name ? 3 Know that the Lord divides his saints From all the tribes of men beside ; He hears and pities their complaints, For the dear sake of Christ that died. 4 When our obedient hands have done A thousand works of righteousness, We put our trust in God alone, And glory in his pardoning grace. 5 Let the unthinking many say, "Who will bestow some earthly good?" But, Lord, thy light and love we pray ; Our souls desire this heavenly food. 6 Then shall my cheerful powers rejoice At grace divine, and love so great ; Nor will I change my happy choice For all their wealth and boasted state. Psalm 4. second part. C. M. LORD, thou wilt hear me when I pray ; I am for ever thine : I fear before thee all the day, Nor would I dare to sin. 2 And while I rest my weary head From cares and business free, 'Tis sweet conversing on ray bed With my own heart and thee. 12 PSALM 5. 3 I pay this evening sacrifice ; And when my work is done, Great God, my faith and hope relies Upon thy grace alone. 4 Thus with my thoughts composed to peace, I'll give mine eyes to sleep ; Thy hand in safety keeps my days, And will my slumbers keep. Psalm 5. C. M. LORD, in the morning thou shalt hear My voice ascending high ; To thee will I direct my prayer, To thee lift up mine eye : 2 Up to the hills where Christ is gone To plead for all his saints, Presenting at his Father'^Pthrone Our songs and our complaints. 3 Thou art a God before whose sight The wicked shall not stand; Sinners shall ne'er be thy delight, Nor dwell at thy right hand. 4 But to thy house will I resort To taste thy mercies there ; I will frequent thy holy court, And worship in thy fear. 5 O may thy Spirit guide my feet In ways of righteousness ! Make every path of duty straight And plain before my face. 6 My watchful enemies combine To tempt my feet astray ; They flatter with a base design To make my soul their prey. PSALM 6. 13 7 Lord, crush the serpent in the dust, And all his plots destroy ; While those that in thy mercy trust For ever shout for joy. 8 The men that love and fear thy name Shall see their hopes fulfilled ; The mighty God will compass them With favour as a shield. Psalm 6. first part. C. JVf- IX anger, Lord, do not chastise, Withdraw the dreadful storm ; Nor let thine awful wrath arise Against a feeble worm. 2 My soul ?s bowed down with heavy cares, My flesh with pain opprest; My couch is witness to my tears, My tears forbid my rest. 3 Sorrow and pain wear out my days ; I waste the night with cries, And count the minutes as they pass, Till the slow morning rise. 4 Shall I be still afflicted more ? My eyes consumed with grief? How long, my God, how long before Thine hand afford relief. 5 He hears his mourning children speak. He pities all our groans, He saves us for his mercy's sake And heals our broken bones. G The virtue of his sovereign word Restores our fainting breath ; For silent graves praise not the Lord. Nor is he known in death. B 14 PSALM 6, 7. Psalm G. second part. L. M. ORD, I can suffer thy rebukes, When thou with kindness dost chastise , But thy fierce wrath I cannot bear, O let it not against me rise ! 2 Pity my languishing estate, And ease the sorrows that I feel ; The wounds thy heavy hand hath made, O let thy gentler touches heal ! o See how in sighs I pass my days, And waste in groans the weary night: My bed is watered with my tears ; My grief consumes, and dims my sight. 4 Look how the powers of nature mourn ! How long, Almighty God, how long ? When shall thine hour of grace return ? When shall I make thy grace my song ? 5 I feel my flesh so near the grave, My thoughts are tempted to despair ; But graves can never praise the Lord, For all is dust and silence there. 6 Depart, ye tempters, from my soul, And all despairing thoughts depart; My God, who hears my humble moan, Will ease my flesh and cheer my heart Psalm 7. CM. Y trust is in my heavenly friend, My hope in thee, my. God ; Rise, and my helpless life defend From those that seek my blood. With insolence and fury they My soul in pieces tear, As hungry lions rend the prey When no deliverer's near. PSALM 8. 15 3 11* e'er my pride provoked them first, Or once abused my foe, Then let them tread my life to dust, And lay mine honour low. 4 If there be malice found in me, I know thy piercing eyes; I should not dare appeal to thee, Nor ask my God to rise. 5 \4rise, my God, lift up thy hand, Their pride and power control ; Awake to judgment, and command Deliverance for my soul. 6 Let sinners and their wicked rage Be humbled to the dust ; Shall not the God of truth engage To vindicate the just? 7 He knows the heart, he tries the reins, He will defend th' upright : His sharpest arrows he ordains Against the sons of spite. 8 Though leagued in guile, their malice spread A snare before my way ; Their mischiefs on their impious head His vengeance shall repay. 9 That cruel persecuting race Must feel his dreadful sword ; Awake, my soul, and praise the grace And justice of the Lord. Psalm 8. first part. S. M. tf"| LORD, our heavenly King, ^^ Thy name is all divine ; Thy glories round the earth are spread. And o'er the heavens they shine. 16 PSALM 8. 2 When to thy works on high I raise my wondering eyes, And see the moon complete in light Adorn the darksome skies: 3 When I survey the stars, In all their shining forms, Lord, what is man, that worthless thing, A-kin to dust and worms? 4 Lord, what is worthless man, That thou shouldst love him so ? Next to thine angels he is placed, And lord of all below. 5 Thine honours crown his head, While beasts like slaves obey, And birds that cut the air with wings, And fish that cleave the sea. 6 How rich thy bounties are ! And wondrous are thy ways: Of dust and worms thy power can frame A monument of praise. Psalm 8. second part. L. M. LORD, what was man, when made at first, Adam the offspring of the dust, That thou shouldst set him and his race But just below an angel's place? 2 That thou shouldst raise his nature so, And make him lord of all below; Make every beast and bird submit, And lay the fishes at his feet? 3 But O, what brighter glories wait To crown the second Adam's state ! What honours shall thy Son adorn, Who condescended to be born ! PSALM 9. 17 4 See him below his angels made, Behold him numbered with the dead, To save a ruined world from sin; But he shall reign with power divine. 5 The world to come, redeemed from all The miseries that attend the fall, Xew made and glorious, shall submit At our exalted Saviour's feet. PSALM 9. first part. C. M: "V3[7ITH my whole heart I'll raise my song, * " Thy wonders I'll proclaim ; Thou, Sovereign Judge of right and wrong, Wilt put thy foes to shame. 2 I'll sing thy majesty and grace My God prepares his throne To judge the world in righteousness, And make his justice known. 3 Then shall the Lord a refuge prove For all the poor opprest, To save the people of his love, And give the weary rest. 4 The men that know thy name, will trust In thy abundant grace ; For thou wilt ne'er forsake the just, Who humbly seek thy face. 5 Sing praises to the righteous Lord, Who dwells on Zion's hill, Who executes his threatening word. And doth his grace fulfil. Psalm 9. second part. C. M. "V^7HEN the great Judge, supreme and just, * ™ Shall once inquire for blood, The humble souls that mourn in dust Shall find a faithful God. 18 PSALM 10. 2 He from the dreadful gates of death Does his own children raise ; In Zion's gates with cheerful breath, They sing their Father's praise. 3 His foes shall fall with heedless feet Into the pit they made ; And sinners perish in the net That their own hands have spread. 4 Thus by thy judgments, mighty God ! Are thy deep counsels known ; When men of mischief are destroyed, In snares that were their own. 5 The wicked shall sink down to hell ; Thy wrath devour the lands That dare forget thee, or rebel Against thy known commands. 6 Though saints to sore distress are brought, And wait, and long complain, Their cries shall never be forgot, Nor shall their hopes be vain. 7 Rise, great Redeemer, from thy seat, To judge and save the poor; Let nations tremble at thy feet, And man prevail no more. 8 Thy thunder shall affright the proud. And put their hearts to pain, Make them confess that thou art God, And they but feeble men. Psalm 10. C. M. ^7HY doth the Lord depart so far, And why conceal his face, When great calamities appear, And times of deep distress ? PSALM U. 19 2 Lord, shall the wicked still deride Thy justice and thy laws I Shall they advance their heads in pride, And slight thy righteous cause? 3 They cast thy judgments from their sight, And then insult the poor; They boast, in their exalted height, That they shall fall no more. 4. Arise, O God, lift up thine hand, Attend our bumble cry ; No enemy shall dare to stand When God ascends on high. 5 Why do the men of malice rage, And say. with foolish pride, "The God of heaven will ne'er engage To fight on Zioirs side T 6 But thou for ever art our Lord; And mighty is thy hand, As when the heathen felt thy sword, And perished from thy land. 7 Thou wilt prepare our hearts to pray, And cause thine ear to hear : Accept the vows thy children pay, And free thy saints from fear. 8 Proud tyrants shall no more oppress. No more despise the just ; And mighty sinners shall confess They are but earth and dust. Psalm 11. L. M. MY refuge is the God of love ; Why do my foes insult and cry, " Fly like a timorous trembling dove, To distant woods or mountains fly :" 20 PSALM 12. 2 Behold the wicked bend their bow, And fit their arrows to the string ; To lay the men of virtue low, In secrecy their darts they fling. 3 If government be once destro}~ed (That firm foundation of our peace,) And violence make justice void, Where shall the righteous seek redress ? 4 The Lord in heaven has fixed his throne, His eye surveys the world below ; To him all mortal things are known, His eyelids search our spirits through. 5 If he afflicts his saints so far, To prove their love and try their grace, What may the bold transgressors fear ? His soul abhors their wicked ways. 6 On impious wretches he will rain Sulphureous flames of wasting death. Such as he kindled on the plain Of Sodom, with his angry breath. 7 The righteous Lord loves righteous souls. Whose thoughts and actions are sincere ; And with a gracious eye beholds The men that his own image bear. Psalm 12. C. M. HELP, Lord, for men of virtue fail, Religion loses ground ; The sons of violence prevail, And treacheries abound. 2 Their oaths and promises they break, Yet act the flatterer's part: With fair deceitful lips they speak, And with a double heart. PSALM 13. 21 3 If we reprove some hateful lie, They scorn our faithful word ! u Are not our lips our own," they cry, M And who shall be our Lord ?" 4 Scoffers appear on every side, Where a vile race of men Is raised to seats of power and pride, And bears the sword in vain. 5 'Lord, when iniquities abound, And blasphemy grows bold, When faith is rarely to be found, And love is waxing cold, 6 Is not thy chariot hastening on ? Hast thou not given the sign ? May we not trust and live upon A promise so divine ? 7 " Yes," saith the Lord, " now will I rise, And make th' oppressors flee ; I shall appear to their surprise, And set my servants free." 8 Thy word, like silver seven times tried, Through ages shall endure : The men that in thy truth confide Shall find thy promise sure. Psalm 13. CM. HOW long wilt thou conceal thy face ? My God, how long delay ? When shall I feel those heavenly rays That chase my fears away ? 2 How long shall my poor labouring soul Wrestle and toil in vain ? Thy word can all my foes control, And ease my raging pain. 22 PSALM 14. 3 See how the prince of darkness tries All his malicious arts ; He spreads a mist around my eyes, And throws his fiery darts. 4 Be thou my sun, and thou my shield, My soul in safety keep ; Make haste before mine eyes are sealed In death's eternal sleep. 5 How would the tempter boast aloud Should I become his prey ! Behold the sons of hell grow proud To see thy long delay. 6 But they shall flee at thy rebuke, And Satan hide his head; He knows the terrors of thy look, And hears thy voice with dread. 7 Thou wilt display thy sovereign grace, Whence all my comforts spring ; I shall employ my lips in praise, And thy salvation sing. Psalm 14. C. M. I^OOLS in their hearts believe and say, - That all religion 's vain, " There is no God that reigns on high, Or minds th' affairs of men." 2 From thoughts so dreadful and profane Corrupt discourse proceeds ; And in their impious hands are found iibominable deeds. 3 The Lord from his celestial throne, Looked down on things below, To find the man that sought his grace, Or did his justice know. PSALM 15, 23 4 By Nature all are gone astray. Their practice all the same ; There's none that fears his Maker's hand, There 's none that loves his name. 5 Their tongues are used to speak deceit. Their slanders never cease : How swift to mischief are their feet, Nor know the paths of peace ! f> Such seeds of sin (that bitter root) In every heart are found; Nor can they bear diviner fruit, Till grace refine the ground. 7 O that salvation might proceed From Zion's sacred place, Till Israel's captives all are freed, And sincr recovering grace* Psalm 15. first part. C. M. "WHO shall inhabit in thy hill. ▼T O God of holiness? Whom will the Lord admit to dwell So near his throne of grace ? 2 The man that walks in pious ways. And works with righteous hands ; That trusts his Maker's promised grace, And follows his commands. 3 He speaks the meaning of his heart, Nor slanders with his tongue ; Will scarce believe an ill report, Nor do his neighbour wrong. 4 The wealthy sinner he contemns. Loves all that fear the Lord; And though to his own hurt lie swears, Still he performs his word. 24 PSALM 15. 5 His hands disdain a golden bribe, And never wrong the poor: This man shall dwell with God on earth, And find his heaven secure. Psalm 15. second part. L. M. ^HO shall ascend thy heavenly place, Great God, and dwell before thy face ? The man that minds religion now, And humbly walks with God below: Whose hands are pure, whose heart is clean ; Whose lips still speak the thing they mean ; No slanders dwell upon his tongue ; He hates to do his neighbour wrong. Scarce will he trust an ill report, Or vent it to his neighbour's hurt : Sinners of state he can despise, But saints are honoured in his eyes. Firm to his word he ever stood, And always makes his promise good ; Nor dares to change the thing he swears, Whatever pain or loss he bears. He never deals in bribing gold, And mourns that justice should be sold : While others scorn and wrong the poor, Sweet charity attends his door. He loves his enemies, and prays For those that curse him to his face ; And doth to all men still the same That he would hope or wish from them. Yet, when his holiest works are done, His soul depends on grace alone : This is the man thy face shall see, And dwell for ever, Lord, with thee. / PSALM 16. 25 Psalm 16. first part. L. M. PRESERVE me, Lord, in time of need ; For succour to thy throne I flee, But have no merits there to plead : My goodness cannot reach to thee. Oft have my heart and tongue confest How empty and how poor I am: My praise can never make thee blest, * Nor add new glories to thy name. Yet, Lord, thy saints on earth may reap Some profit by the good we do ; These are the company I keep, These are the choicest friends I know. How fast their guilt and sorrows rise, Who haste to seek some idol-god ! I will not taste their sacrifice, Their offerings of forbidden blood. My God provides a richer cup, And nobler food to live upon ; He for my life has offered up Jesus, his best beloved Son. His love is my perpetual feast ; By day his counsels guide me right ; And be his name for ever blest, Who gives me sweet advice by night, I set him still before mine eyes; At my right hand he stands prepared To keep my soul from all surprise, And be my everlasting guard. Psalm 16. second part. L. M. "^T7HEX God is nigh, my faith is strong, ' ™ His arm is my almighty prop: Be glad my heart, rejoice my tongue, My dying flesh shall rest in hope. c 26 PSALM 17. 2 Though in the dust I lay my head, Yet, gracious God, thou wilt not leave My soul for ever with the dead, Nor lose thy children in the grave. 3 My flesh shall thy first call obey, Shake off the dust and rise on high; Then shalt thou lead the wondrous way Up to thy throne above the sky. 4 There streams of endless pleasure flow ; And full discoveries of thy grace (Which we but tasted here below) Spread heavenly joys through all the place. Psalm 17. L. M. ORD, I am thine; but thou wilt prove My faith, my patience, and my love: When men of spite against me join, They are the sword, the hand is thine. 2 Their hope and portion lie below ; 'Tis all the happiness they know ; 'Tis all they seek, they take their shares, And leave the rest among their heirs. 3 What sinners value, I resign ; Lord, 'tis enough that thou art mine ; I shall behold thy blissful face, And stand complete in righteousness. 4 This life 's a dream, an empty show ; But the bright world to which I go, Hath joys substantial and sincere; When shall I wake and find me there ? 5 O glorious hour ! O blest abode ! I shall be near, and like my God ; And flesh and sin no more control The sacred pleasures of the soul. PSALM 18. 2 i 6 My flesh shall slumber in the ground. Till the last trumpet's joyful sound ; Then burst the chains with sweet surprise, And in my Saviour's image rise. Psalm 18. first part. L. M. THEE will I love, O Lord, my strength, My rock, my tower, my high defence ; Thy mighty arm shall be my trust, 'For I have found salvation thence. 2 Death and the terrors of the grave, Stood round me with their dismal shade; While floods of high temptation rose, And made my sinking soul afraid. 3 I saw the opening gates of hell, With endless pains and sorrows there, (Which none but they that feel can tell) While I was hurried to despair. 4 In my distress I called my God, When I could scarce believe him mine ; He bowed his ear to my complaint, And proved his saving grace divine. 5 With speed he flew to my relief, As on a cherub's wing he rode; Awful, and bright as lightning shone The face of my deliverer, God. 6 Temptations fled at his rebuke, The blast of his Almighty breath : He sent salvation from on high, And drew me from the deeps of death. 7 Great were mv fears, mv foes were great, Much was their strength, and more their rage ; But Christ, my Lord, is conqueror still, In all the wars the proud can wage. 28 PSALM 18. 8 My song for ever shall record That terrible, that joyful hour; And give the glory to the Lord Due to his mercy and his power Psalm 18. second part. L. M. "1" ORD, thou hast seen my soul sincere, -^ Hast made thy truth and love appear ; Before mine eyes I set thy laws, And thou hast owned my righteous cause. ' 2 Since I have learned thy holy ways, I've wralked upright before thy face : Or if my feet did e'er depart, Thy love reclaimed my wandering heart. 3 What sore temptations broke my rest ! What wars and stragglings in my breast ! But through thy grace that reigns within, I guard against my darling sin. 4 That sin that close besets me still, That works and strives against my will ; When shall thy Spirit's sovereign power Destroy it, that it rise no more ? 5 With an impartial hand, the Lord Deals out to mortals their reward ; The kind and faithful souls shall find A God more faithful and more kind. 6 The just and pure shall ever say, Thou art more pure, more just than they : And men that love revenge shall know, God hath an arm of vengeance too. Psalm 18. third part. L. M. JUST are thy ways, and true thy word, Great rock of my secure abode : Who is a God beside the Lord ? Or where 's a refuge like our God ? PSALM 19. 29 2 'Tis he that girds me with his might, Gives me his holy sword to wield ; And, while with sin and hell I fight, Spreads his salvation for my shield. 3 He lives, and blessings crown his reign, The God of my salvation lives ; The dark designs of hell are vain, While heavenly peace my Father gives. 4 "Before the scoffers of the age, I will exalt my Father's name; \or tremble at their mighty rage, But meet reproach, and bear the shame. 5 To David and his royal seed Thy grace for ever shall extend; Thy love to saints, in Christ their head, Knows not a limit, nor an end. PSALM 19. first part. S. M. BEHOLD the lofty sky Declares its maker, God ! And all the starry works on high Proclaim his power abroad. 2 The darkness and the light Still keep their course the same; While night to day, and day to night, Divinely teach his name. 3 In every different land, Their general voice is known ; They show the wonders of his hand, And orders of his throne. 4 Ye christian lands, rejoice, Here he reveals his word , We are not left to nature's voice To bid us know the Lord. c 2 30 PSALM 19. 5 His statutes and commands Are set before our eyes ; He puts his gospel in our hands, Where our salvation lies. 6 His laws are just and pure, His truth without deceit ; His promises for ever sure. And his rewards are great. 7 Xot honey to the taste Affords so much delight ; Nor gold that has the furnace passed So much allures the sight. 8 While of thy works I sing, Thy glory to proclaim ; Accept the praise, my God, my King, In my Redeemer's name. Psalm 19. second part. S. M. BEHOLD the morning sun 1 Begins his glorious way ; His beams through all the nations run, And life and light convey. 2 But where the gospel comes, It spreads diviner light ; It calls dead sinners from their tombs, And gives the blind their sight. 3 How perfect is thy word! And all thy judgments just ; For ever sure thy promise, Lord ; And men securely trust. 4 My gracious God, how plain Are thy directions given r Oh may I never read in vain, But find the path to heaven ! PSALM 19. 31 5 I heard thy word with love, And I would fain obey : Send thy good Spirit from above To guide me, lest I stray. 6 Oh ! who can ever find The errors of his ways ? Yet, with a bold, presumptuous mind, I would not dare transgress. 7* Warn me of every sin, Forgive my secret faults; And cleanse this guilty soul of mine, Whose crimes exceed my thoughts. 8 While with my heart and tongue I spread thy praise abroad ; Accept the worship and the song, My Saviour and my God. PsAL3I 19. THIRD PART. L. M. THE heavens declare thy glory Lord ; In every star thy wisdom shines ; But when our eyes behold thy word, We read thy name in fairer lines. 2 The rolling sun, the changing light, And nights and days thy power confess ; But the blest volume thou bast writ, Reveals thv justice and thy grace. 3 Sun, moon, and stars convey thy praise Round the whole earth, and never stand; So when thy truth began its race, It touched and glanced on every land. 4 Nor shall thy spreading gospel rest, Till through the world thy truth has run ; Till Christ has all the nation? blest. That see the light or fee] the sun. 32 PSALM 19. 5 Great Sun of Righteousness, arise, Bless the dark world with heavenly light ; Thy gospel makes the simple wise, Thy laws are pure, thy judgments right. G Thy noblest wonders here we view, In souls renewed and sins forgiven: Lord, cleanse my sins, my soul renew, And make thy word my guide to heaven. Psalm 19. fourth part. P. M. GREAT God, the heavens' well-ordered frame Declares the glories of thy name; There thy rich works of wTonder shine : A thousand starry beauties there, A thousand radiant marks appear Of boundless powTer, and skill divine. 2 From night to day, from day to night, The dawning and the dying light, Lectures of heavenly wrisdom read : With silent eloquence they raise Our thoughts to our Creator's praise, And neither sound nor language need. 3 Yet their divine instructions run Far as the journeys of the sun, And every nation knows their voice: The sun, like some young bridegroom drest, Breaks from the chambers of the east, Rolls round, and makes the earth rejoice. i Where'er he spreads his beams abroad, He smiles, and speaks his maker, God ; All nature joins to show thy praise : Thus God in every creature shines; Fair is the book of nature's lines ; But fairer is the book of grace. PSALM 19, 20. 33 Psalm 19. fifth part. P. M. LOVE the volumes of thy word ; What light and joy those leaves afford To souls benighted and distrest ! Thy precepts guide my doubtful way, Thy fear forbids my feet to stray, Thy promise leads my heart to rest. 2 From the discoveries of thy law 'The perfect rules of life I draw : These are my study and delight : Not honey so invites the taste, Nor gold that hath the furnace passed, Appears so pleasing to the sight. 3 Thy threatenings wake my slumbering eyes, And warn me where my danger lies; But 'tis thy blessed gospel, Lord, That makes my guilty conscience clean, Converts my soul, subdues my sin, And gives a free, but large reward. 4 Who knows the errors of his thoughts? My God, forgive my secret faults, And from presumptuous sins restrain ; Accept my poor attempts of praise, That I have read thy book of grace And book of nature, not in vain. Psalm 20. L. M. \"OW may the God of power and grace -^ Attend his people's humble cry ! Jehovah hears when Israel prays, And brings deliverance from on high. 2 The name of Jacob's God defends, When bucklers fail and brazen walls : He from his sanctuary sends Succour and strength when Zion calls. 34 PSALM 21. 3 Well he remembers all our sighs, His love exceeds our best deserts ; His love accepts the sacrifice Of humble groans and broken hearts. 4 In his salvation is our hope, And in the name of Israel's God Our troops shall lift their banners up, Our navies spread their flags abroad. 5 Some trust in horses trained for war, And some of chariots make their boasts ; Our surest expectations are From thee, the Lord of heavenly hosts. 6 Now save us. Lord, from slavish fear, Now let our hopes be firm and strong ; Till thy salvation shall appear, And joy and triumph raise the song. Psalm 21. C. M. OUR land, O Lord, with songs of praise, Shall in thy strength rejoice ; And, blest with thy salvation, raise To heaven a cheerful voice. 2 Thy sure defence, through nations round, Hath spread our country's name ; And all her humble efforts crowned With freedom and with fame. 3 In deep distress, a patriot band Implored thy power to save ; For liberty they prayed; thy hand The timely blessing gave. 4 Most righteous Lord, thy stubborn foes Shall quake through all their train; Thy vengeful arm shall find out those Who hate thy gracious reign. PSALM 22. 33 5 On thee, in want, in woe or pain, Our hearts alone rely ; Our rights thy mercy will maintain, And all our wants supply. 6 Thus, Lord, thy wondrous power declare, And still exalt thy fame ; While we glad songs of praise prepare, For thine Almighty name. Psalm 22. first part. C. M. " ^[OVr from the roaring lion's rage, 4-^ O Lord, protect thy Son, Nor leave thy darling to engage The powers of hell alone/' 2 Thus did our suffering Saviour pray, With mighty cries and tears : God heard him in that dreadful day, And chased away his fears. 3 Great was the victory of his death, His throne exalted high ; And all the kindreds of the earth Shall worship or shall die. 4 A numerous offspring must arise From his exuirincr groans: They shall be reckoned in his eyes For daughters and for sons. 5 The meek and humble souls shall see His table richly spread ; And all that seek the Lord shall be With joys immortal fed. 6 The isles shall know the righteousness Of our incarnate God, And nations yet unborn profess Salvation in his blood. 36 PSALM 22, 23. Psalm 22. second part. L. M. l^TOW let our mournful songs record l^S The dying sorrows of our Lord, When he complained in tears and blood, As one forsaken of his God. 2 The Jews behold him thus forlorn, And shake their heads and laugh in scorn ; " He rescued others from the grave, Now let him try himself to save. r3 This is the man did once pretend God was his father and his friend ! If God, the blessed, loved him so, Why doth he fail to help him now ?" 4 O savage people! cruel priests ! How they stood round like raging beasts ! Like lions gaping to devour, When God had left him in their power. 5 They wound his head, his hands, his feet, Till streams of blood each other meet ; By lot his garments they divide, And mock the pangs in which he died. 6 But God his father heard his cry ; Raised from the dead he reigns on high; The nations learn his righteousness, And humble sinners taste his grace. Psalm 23. first part. L. M. MY shepherd is the living Lord ; Now shall my wants be well supplied ; His providence and holy word Become my safety and my guide. 2 In pastures where salvation grows He makes me feed, he makes me rest ; There living water gently flows, And all the food 's divinely blest. PSALM 24. 39 n^ foes Thou dost my table spread, My cup with blessings overflows And joy exalts my head. 6 The bounties of thy love Shall crown my following days; Nor from thy house will I remove, Nor cease to speak thy praise. PSALM 24. FIRST PART. C. M. THE earth for ever is the Lord's, With Adam's numerous race; He raised its arches o'er the floods, And built it on the seas. 2 But who among the sons of men May visit thine abode ? He that has hands from mischief clean, Whose heart is right with God. 3 This is the man may rise and take The blessings of his grace ; This is the lot of those that seek The God of Jacob's face. 4 Xow let our souls' immortal powers To meet the Lord prepare, Lift up their everlasting doors, The King of glory 's near. 5 The Kino; of glory! who can tell The wonders of his might ? He rules the nations ; but to dwell With saints is his delight. Psalm 24. second part. L. M. THIS spacious earth is all the Lord's, And men and worms, and beasts and birds ; He raised the building on the seas, And gave it for their dwelling place. 40 PSALM 25. 2 But there 's a brighter world on high. Thy palace, Lord, above the sky ; Who shall ascend that blest abode, And dwell so near his maker, God ? 3 He that abhors and fears to sin, Whose heart is pure, whose hands are clean, Him shall the Lord, the Saviour bless, And clothe his soul with righteousness. 4 These are the men, the pious race, That seek the God of Jacob's face ; These shall enjoy the blissful sight, And dwell in everlasting light. 5 Rejoice, ye shining worlds on high, Behold the King of glory nigh. Who can this King of glory be ? The mighty Lord, the Saviour 's he. 6 Ye heavenly gates, your leaves display, To make the Lord, the Saviour way : Laden with spoils from earth and hell, The conqueror comes with God to dwell. 7 Raised from the dead in royal state, He opens heaven's eternal gate, To give his saints a blest abode, Near their Redeemer and their God. Psalm 25. first part. S. M. LIFT my soul to God, My trust is in his name ; Let not the foes that seek my blood Still triumph in my shame. 2 Sin and the powers of hell Would tempt me to despair ; Lord, make me know thy covenant well, That I may 'scape the snare. PSALM 25. 41 3 From the first dawning light Till evening shades ari.se, For thy salvation, Lord, I wait, With ever-longing eyes. 4 Remember all thy grace, And lead me in thy truth : Forgive the sin? of riper days, And follies of my youth. 5r The Lord is just and kind, The meek shall learn his ways, And every humble sinner find The methods of his grace. 6 For his own goodness sake He saves my soul from shame; He pardons (though my guilt be great) Through my Redeemer's name. Psalm 25. second part. S. M. ^HERE shall the man be found That fears V offend his God, That loves the gospePs joyful sound, And trembles at the rod ? 2 The Lord shall make him know The secrets of his heart, The wonders of his covenant show, And all his love impart. 3 The dealings of his power Are truth and mercy still, With such as keep his covenant sure, And love to do his will. 4 Their souls shall dwell at ease Before their Maker's face, Their seed shall taste the promises In their extensive grace. d2 42 PSALM 25, 26. Psalm 25. third part. S. M. "jVTIXE eyes and my desire -L*-*- Are ever to the Lord, I love to plead his promised grace And rest upon his word. 2 Turn, turn thee to my soul, Bring thy salvation near ; When will thy hand release my feet Out of the deadly snare ? 3 When shall the sovereign grace Of my forgiving God, Restore me from those dangerous ways My wandering feet have trod ? 4 With every morning light My sorrow new begins ; Look on my anguish and my pain, And pardon all my sins. 5 O keep my soul from death, Nor put my hope to shame, For I have placed my only trust In my Redeemer's name. 6 With humble faith I wait To see thy face again; Of Israel it shall ne'er be said, He sought the Lord in vain. Psalm 26. L. M. JUDGE me, O Lord, and prove my ways, And try my reins, and try my heart ; My faith upon thy promise stays, Nor from thy law my feet depart. 2 I hate to walk, I hate to sit With men of vanity and lies ; The scoffer and the hypocrite Arc the abhorrence of mine eyes. PSALM 27. 43 3 Amongst thy saints will I appear Arrayed in robes of innocence ; But when I stand before thy bar, The blood of Christ is my defence. 4 I love thy habitation. Lord, The temple where thine honours dwell ; There shall I hear thy holy word, And there thy works of wonder tell. 5* Let not my soul be joined at last With men of treachery and blood, Since I my days on earth have past Among the saints, and near my God. Psalm 27. first part. C. M. THE Lord of glory is my light, And my salvation too ; God is my strength ; nor will I fear What all my foes can do. 2 One privilege my heart desires ; Oh grant me mine abode Among the churches of thy saints. The temples of my God. 3 There shall I offer my requests. And see thy beautv still, Shall hear thy messages of love. And there inquire thy will. 4 When troubles rise and storms appear, There may his children hide ; God is a strong pavilion, where He makes my soul abide. 5 Xow shall my head be lifted high Above my foes around, And songs of joy and victory Within thy temple sound. 44 PSALM 27, 28. PsAOI 27. SECOND PART. C. M. 