O GOD, my refuge, hear my cries; Behold my trials and tears, For earth and hell my hurt devise, And triumph in my fears.
I long for freedom as a dove, For liberty and wings To fly away and soar above These present, painful things.
O let me to some refuge go, And find a peaceful home, Where storms of malice never blow, And trials never come.
Vain hope and false aspirings all! To thwart the devil’s arm, The mighty God on Whom I call, Will save me where I am.
He shall preserve my soul from fear, And shield me when afraid; Ten thousand angels must appear, If He command their aid.
I’ll cast my burdens on the Lord, The Lord sustains them all; My faith shall rest upon His word That saints shall never fall.
Isaac Watts, 1674-1748‡