The Minstrel of Zion ‎#138

138. The contrast

1 I have sought round the verdant earth,
For unfading joy;
I have tried ev'ry source of mirth,
But all, all, will cloy:
Lord, bestow on me
Grace to set my spirit free;
Thine the praise shall be;
Mine, mine the joy.

2 I have wander'd in mazes dark,
Of doubt and distress;
I have had not a kindling spark
My spirit to bless;
Cheerless unbelief
Fill'd my labouring soul with grief,
What shall give relief?
What shall give peace?

3 I then turned to thy gospel, Lord,
From folly away,
I then trusted thy holy word
That taught me to pray,
Here I found release:
Here my weary soul found rest,
Hope of endless bliss,
Eternal day.

4 I will praise now my heavenly King,
I'll praise and adore;
I'll the heart's richest tribute bring
To thee, God of power;
And in heaven above,
Saved by thy redeeming love,
Loud the strains shall move
For evermore.

Text Information

• First Line: I have sought round the verdant earth
• Title: The contrast
• Publication Date: 1845

Tune Information

• Name: THE CONTRAST
• Meter: P. M.
• Key: E Major