Hymns and Devotions for Daily Worship ‎#195

195. How Sad Our State by Nature Is

1. How sad our state by nature is!
Our sin, how deep the stain!
And Satan binds our captive minds
Fast in his slavish Chains.

2. But here a Voice of sov'reign grace
Sounds from the sacred Word:
Come, ye despairing sinners, come,
And trust upon the Lord.

3. My soul obeys th’ almighty call
And runs to this relief;
I would believe your promise, Lord;
Oh! help my unbelief.

4. To the dear fountain of your blood,
Incarnate God, I fly;
Here let me wash my spotted soul
From crimes of deepest dye.

5. Stretch out your arm, victorious King,
My reigning sins subdue;
Drive the old dragon from his seat,
With all his hellish crew.

6. A guilty, weak, and helpless worm,
On your kind arms I fall;
Be now my strength and righteousness,
My Jesus, and my all.

Text Information

• First Line: How sad our state by nature is
• Title: How Sad Our State by Nature Is
• Author: Isaac Watts (1707)
• Meter: 8.6.8.6
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2024
• Scripture:
  Genesis 3:17-19
• Topic: Ordinary Time: Week 5
• Notes: Text by Nonconformist minister Isaac Watts, from Hymns and Spiritual Songs (1707, rev. 1709), alt.

Tune Information

• Name: NOX PRAECESSIT
• Composer: John Baptiste Calkin (1875)
• Meter: 8.6.8.6
• Incipit: 33312 334
• Key: F Major or modal
• Notes: Tune NOX PRAECESSIT by London organist John Baptiste Calkin, from The Christian Hymnal (1875).