Psalm 19
Words: Brady and Tate, A New Version of the Psalms of David
1 The heav'ns declare thy glory, Lord,
which that alone can fill;
The firmament and stars express
their great Creator's skill.
2 The dawn of each returning day
fresh beams of knowledge brings;
From darkest night's successive rounds
divine instruction springs.
3 Their pow'rful language to no realm
or region is confined;
'Tis nature's voice, and understood
alike by all mankind.
4 Their doctrine does its sacred sense
through earth's extent display;
Whose bright contents the circling sun
does round the world convey.
5 No bridegroom, for his nuptials dressed,
has such a cheerful face;
No giant does like him rejoice
to run his glorious race.
6 From east to west, from west to east,
his restless course he goes;
And through his progress cheerful light
and vital warmth bestows.
The Second Part.
7 God's perfect law converts the soul,
reclaims from false desires;
With sacred wisdom his sure word
the ignorant inspires.
8 The statutes of the Lord are just,
and bring sincere delight;
His pure commands, in search of truth,
assist the feeblest sight.
9 His perfect worship here is fixed,
on sure foundations laid;
His equal laws are in the scales
of truth and justice weighed.
10 Of more esteem than golden mines,
or gold refined with skill;
More sweet than honey, or the drops
that from the comb distil.
11 My trusty counselors they are,
and friendly warnings give;
Divine rewards attend on those
who by thy precepts live.
12 But what frail man observes how oft
he does from virtue fall?
O cleanse me from my secret faults,
thou God that know'st them all.
13 Let no presumptuous sin, O Lord,
dominion have o'er me;
That, by thy grace preserved, I may
the great transgression flee.
14 So shall my pray'r and praises be
with thy acceptance blest;
And I, secure on thy defense,
my strength and Savior, rest.
