MY soul lies cleaving to the dust, Lord, give me life divine; From vain desires and every lust, O turn these eyes of mine.
I need the influence of Thy grace To speed me in Thy way, Lest I should linger in the race, Or turn my feet astray.
When I have learned Thy glorious will, I’ll teach the world Thy ways: These thankful lips, inspired with zeal, Shall sound aloud Thy praise.
When nature sinks, and spirits droop, Thy promises of grace Are the great pillars of my hope, And there I base my praise.
O send Thy Spirit down to write Thy law upon my heart! Nor let my tongue indulge deceit, Nor act the liar’s part.
I chose the path of heavenly Truth, And glory in that choice; Not all the riches of this earth Could make me so rejoice.
Isaac Watts, 1674-1748