CCLXXV. The contrite heart

1 The Lord will happiness divine
On contrite hearts bestow;
Then tell me, gracious God, is mine
A contrite heart or no?

2 I hear, but seem to hear in vain,
Insensible as steel;
If aught is felt, 'tis only pain
To find I cannot feel.

3 I sometimes think myself inclin'd
To love thee, if I could;
But often feel another mind,
Averse to all that's good.

4 My best desires are faint and few,
I fain would strive for more;
But when I cry, "my strength renew,"
Seem weaker than before.

5 Thy saints are comforted I know
And love thy house of prayer;
I sometimes go where others go,
But find no comfort there.

6 O make this heart rejoice or ache;
Decide this doubt for me;
And, if it be not broken, break,
And heal it, if it be.

Text Information
First Line: The Lord will happiness divine
Title: The contrite heart
Author: Cowper
Meter: C. M.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1792
Scripture:
Topic: Graces of the Spirit: Resignation; Complaint: Of stupidity in hearing and prayer; Contrition of heart
Tune Information
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