LORD, I cannot let Thee go, Till a blessing Thou bestow; Do not turn away Thy face From an urgent, pressing case.
Thou didst once a wretch behold— In rebellion blindly bold— Scorn Thy grace, Thy power defy: That poor rebel, Lord, was I.
Once a sinner near despair Sought Thy mercy-seat by prayer; Thou didst hear and set him free; Lord, that mercy came to me.
Many days 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; Thou wilt hear the pleas I make, When I plead for Jesus’ sake.
John ewton, 1725-1807