Hymn CLXXI. Long Metre. Imploring Divine Influences

My God, whene'er my longing heart Its grateful tribute would impart; In vain my tongue with feeble aim Attempts the glories of thy name.

In vain, my boldest thoughts arise, I sink to earth, and lose the skies; Yet I may still thy grace implore, And low in dust, thy name adore.

O let thy grace my heart inspire, And raise each languid, weak desire; Thy grace, which condescends to meet The sinner prostrate at thy feet.

With humble fear let love unite, And mix devotion with delight; Then shall thy name be all my joy, Thy praise my constant, blest employ.

Thy name inspires the harps above, With harmony and praise and love; That grace which tunes th' immortal strings Looks kindly down on mortal things.

O let thy grace guide every song, And fill my heart and tune my tongue; Then shall the strains harmonious flow, And heavenly joy begin below.