You help make Hymnary.org possible. More than 10 million people from 200+ countries found hymns, liturgical resources and encouragement on Hymnary.org in 2025, including you. Every visit affirms the global impact of this ministry.

If Hymnary has been meaningful to you this year, would you take a moment today to help sustain it? A gift of any size—paired with a note of encouragement if you wish—directly supports the server costs, research work and curation that keep this resource freely available to the world.

Give securely online today, or mail a check to:
Hymnary.org
Calvin University
3201 Burton Street SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Thank you for your partnership, and may the hope of Advent fill your heart.

XII. Since godly men decay, O Lord

1 Since godly men decay, O Lord,
do thou my cause defend;
For scarce these wretched times afford
one just and faithful friend.
2 One neighbour now can scarce believe
what t'other does impart;
With flatt'ring lips they all deceive,
and with a double heart.

3 But lips that with deceit abound,
can never prosper long;
God's righteous vengeance will confound
the proud blaspheming tongue.
4 In vain those foolish boasters say,
"our tongues are, sure, our own;
"With doubtful Words we'll still betray,
"and be controul'd by none."

5 For God, who hears the suff'ring poor,
and their oppression knows,
Will soon arise and give them rest,
in spite of all their foes.
6 The word of God shall still abide,
and void of falshood be,
As is the silver, sev'n times try'd,
from drossy mixture free.

7 The promise of his aiding grace
shall reach its purpos'd end:
His servants from this faithless race
he ever shall defend.
8 Then shall the wicked be perplex'd,
nor know which way to fly;
When those whom they despis'd and vex'd,
shall be advanc'd on high.

Text Information
First Line: Since godly men decay, O Lord
Language: English
Publication Date: 1793
Scripture:
Tune Information
(No tune information)



Suggestions or corrections? Contact us
It looks like you are using an ad-blocker. Ad revenue helps keep us running. Please consider white-listing Hymnary.org or getting Hymnary Pro to eliminate ads entirely and help support Hymnary.org.