The Psalms of David ‎#22a

22a. Pleading with GOD under Desertion; or, Hope in Darkness

1 How long, O Lord! shall I complain,
Like one that seeks his GOD in vain.
Canst thou thy Face for ever hide?
And I still pray and be deny'd?

2 Shall I for ever be forgot,
As one whom thou regardest not?
Still shall my Soul thine Absence mourn?
And still despair of thy Return?

3 How long shall my poor troubled Breast
Be with these anxious Thoughts opprest,
And Satan, my malicious Foe,
Rejoice to see me sunk so low?

4 Hear, Lord, and grant me quick Relief,
Before my Death conclude my Grief;
If thou with-hold thy heav'nly Light,
I sleep in everlasting Night.

5 How will the Pow'rs of Darkness boast,
If but one praying Soul be lost?
But I have trusted in thy Grace,
And shall again behold thy Face.

6 Whate'er my Foes or Fears suggest,
Thou art my Hope, my Joy, my Rest,
My Heart shall feel thy Love, and raise
My chearful Voice to Songs of Praise.

Text Information

• First Line: How long, O Lord! shall I complain
• Title: Pleading with GOD under Desertion; or, Hope in Darkness
• Meter: Long Metre
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1740
• Scripture:
  Psalm 13
• Topic: Complaint: of Desertion; Complaint: of Temptaion; Deliverance: from Temptations; Desertion and Distress of Soul; Hope: in darkness; Religion: and justice; Satan subdued; Temptations: of the devil

Tune Information

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