The Psalms of David ‎#XIIIa

XIIIa. Pleading with GOD under Desertion; or, Hope in Darkness

1 How long, O Lord, shall I complain,
Like one that seeks his GOD in vain?
Canst thou thy face for ever hide?
And I still pray, and be deny'd?

2 Shall I for ever be forgot,
As one whom thou regardest not?
Still shall my soul thine absence mourn;
And still despair of thy return.

3 How long shall my poor troubled breast
Be with these anxious thoughts oppress'd?
And Satan, my malicious foe,
Rejoice to see me sunk so low?

4 Hear, Lord, and grant me quick relief,
Before my death conclude my grief;
If thou with hold thy heav'nly light,
I sleep in everlasting night.

5 How will the pow'rs of darkness boast,
If but one praying soul be lost?
But I have trusted in thy grace,
And shall again behold thy face.

6 Whate'er my fears or foes suggest,
Thou art my hope, my joy, my rest;
My heart shall feel thy love, and raise
My chearful voice to songs of praise.

Text Information

• First Line: How long, O Lord, shall I complain
• Title: Pleading with GOD under Desertion; or, Hope in Darkness
• Meter: Long Metre
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1780
• Scripture:
  Psalm 13

Tune Information

(No tune information)