Doctor Watts's Imitation of the Psalms of David ‎#134

134. Melancholy assaulting, and Hope prevailing

1 To God I cry'd with mournful voice,
I sought his gracious ear,
In the sad hour, when trouble rose,
And fill'd my heart with fear.

2 Sad were my days, and dark my nights,
My soul refus'd relief;
I thought on God, the just and wise,
But thoughts increas'd my grief.

3 Still I complain'd and still opprest,
My heart began to break;
My God, thy wrath forbade me rest,
And kept mine eyes awake.

4 My overwhelming sorrows grew,
'Till I could speak no more;
Then I within myself withdrew,
And call'd thy judgments o’er.

5 I call'd back years and ancient times
When I beheld thy face;
My spirit search'd for secret crimes
That might with-hold thy grace.

6 I call'd thy mercies to my mind,
Which I enjoy'd before;
And will the Lord no more be kind;
His face appear no more?

7 Will he forever cast me off?
His promise ever fail?
Has he forgot his tender love?
Shall anger still prevail?

8 But I forbid this hopeless thought,
This dark, despairing frame:
Rememb’ring what thy hand hath wrought;
Thy hand is still the same.

9 I’ll think again of all thy ways,
And talk thy wonders o’er,
Thy wonders of recovering grace,
When flesh could hope no more.

10 Grace dwelt with justice on the throne;
And men that love thy word,
Have in thy sanctuary known
The counsels of the Lord.

Text Information

• First Line: To God I cry'd with mournful voice
• Title: Melancholy assaulting, and Hope prevailing
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1790
• Scripture:
  Psalm 77
• Topic: Afflictions: hope in them; Afflictions: very great; Comfort: from ancient Providence; Israel: saved from Egypt and brought to Canaan; Melancholy: and hope; Patience: in darkness; Providence: recorded; Remembrance of former deliverances

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