Poems on Subjects Chiefly Devotional, Vol. 1 ‎#134

134. Desiring Resignation and Thankfulness

I. When I survey life’s varied scene,
Amid the darkest hours,
Sweet rays of comfort shine between,
And thorns are mix'd with flowers.

II. Lord, teach me to adore thy hand,
From whence my comforts flow;
And let me in this desert land
A glimpse of Canaan know.

III. Is health and ease my happy share?
O may I bless my God;
Thy kindness let my songs declare,
And spread thy praise abroad.

IV. While such delightful gifts as these,
Are kindly dealt to me,
Be all my hours of health and ease
Devoted, Lord, to thee.

V. In griefs and pains thy sacred word,
(Dear solace of my soul!)
Celestial comforts can afford,
And all their pow'r control.

VI. When present suff'rings pain my heart,
Or future terrors rise,
And light and hope almost depart
From these dejected eyes,

VII. Thy pow'rful word supports my hope,
Sweet cordial of the mind!
And bears my fainting spirit up,
And bids me wait resign'd.

VIII. And O, whate’er of earthly bliss
Thy sov'reign hand denies,
Accepted at thy throne of grace,
Let this petition rise:

IX. “Give me a calm, a thankful heart,
From ev'ry murmur free;
The blessings of thy grace impart,
And let me live to thee.”

X. “Let the sweet hope that thou art mine,
My path of life attend;
Thy presence through my journey shine,
And bless its happy end.”

Text Information

• First Line: When I survey life's varied scene
• Title: Desiring Resignation and Thankfulness
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1760
• Notes: ["Father, whate'er of earthly bliss," see sts. 8-10]

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