The Seventh-Day Adventist Hymn and Tune Book ‎#1178

1178. 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.
I would not live always; no; welcome the tomb,
Since Jesus has laid there, I dread not its gloom;
There sweet be my rest till he bid me arise
To hail him in triumph descending the skies.

2 Who, who would live always, away from his God.
Away from yon heaven, that blissful abode,
Where the rivers of pleasure flow o'er the bright plains,
And the noontide of glory eternally reigns?
There saints of all ages in harmony meet;
Their Saviour and brethren transported to greet;
There anthems of rapture unceasingly roll,
And the smile of the Lord in the feast of the soul.

Text Information

• First Line: I would not live alway, I ask not to stay
• Author: William A. Muhlenberg
• Publication Date: 1886
• Topic: Miscellaneous: Old Melodies

Tune Information

• Name: AFTON
• Meter: 11s, D
• Key: G Major or modal
• Source: Arranged