Approach not the altar with gloom in thy soul

Approach not the altar with gloom in thy soul,
Nor let thy feet falter from terror’s control;
God loves not the sadness of fear and mistrust;
O, serve Him with gladness,—the Loving and Just!

His bounty is tender, His being is love;
His smile fills with splendor the blue arch above;
Confiding, believing, O, enter always
His courts with thanksgiving, His portals with praise!

Come not to His temple with pride in thy mien
But lowly and simple, in courage serene;
Bring meekly before Him the faith of a child,
Bow down and adore Him with heart undefiled!

Source: A Book of Hymns for Public and Private Devotion (15th ed.) #464