The New Sabbath School Hosanna ‎#57

57. I would not live alway; I ask not to stay

1 I would not live alway; I ask not to stay,
Where storm after storm rises dark o’er the way;
The few lurid mornings that dawn on us here
Are enough for life’s woes, full enough for its cheer.

2 I would not live always, thus fettered by sin,
Temptation without, and corruption within;
E’en the rapture of pardon is mingled with fears,
And the cup of thanksgiving with penitent tears.

3 I would not live alway; no--welcome the tomb,
Since Jesus hath lain there, I dread not its gloom;
There sweet be my rest till he bid me arise,
To hail him in triumph descending the skies.

4 Who, who would live alway, away from his God,
Away from yon heaven, that blissful abode,
Where rivers of pleasure flow o’er the bright plains,
And the noontide of glory eternally reigns,--

5 Where the saints of all ages in harmony meet,
Their Saviour and brethren transported to greet,
While the anthems of rapture unceasingly roll,
And smile of the Lord is the feast of the soul?

Text Information

• First Line: I would not live alway; I ask not to stay
• Publication Date: 1870
• Notes: Tune for 329, 428, and 325 in "American Sunday School Hymn Book" (ASS1860a)

Tune Information

• Name: FREDERICK
• Composer: Geo. Kingsley
• Meter: 11s
• Key: F Major or modal
• Copyright: By permission.