Together in Song ‎#576

576. O for a closer walk with God

1 O for a closer walk with God,
a calm and heavenly frame,
a light to shine upon the road
that leads me to the Lamb.

2 Where is the blessedness I knew
when first I saw the Lord?
Where is the soul-refreshing view
of Jesus and his word?

3 What peaceful hours I once enjoyed,
how sweet their memory still!
But they have left an aching void
the world can never fill.

4 Return, O holy dove, return,
sweet messenger of rest!
I hate the sins that made thee mourn,
and drove thee from my breast.

5 The dearest idol I have known,
whate'er that idol be,
help me to tear it from thy throne
and worship only thee.

6 So shall my walk be close with God,
calm and serene my frame;
so purer light shall mark the road
that leads me to the Lamb.

Text Information

• First Line: O for a closer walk with God
• Author: William Cowper, 1731-1800
• Meter: 86.86
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1999
• Scripture:
  1 Thessalonians 1:6-10
  ;
  Deuteronomy 5:8
  ;
  Exodus 20:2-4
  ;
  Genesis 5:24
  ;
  Job 29:1-3
  ;
  John 1:29
  ;
  John 1:35
  ;
  John 15:7-11
  ;
  John 15:12-15
  ;
  Psalm 119:103-106
• Topic: Confession of Sin; Consolation; Lamb of God; Lent; Longing for God; Personal Petition
• Notes: May be sung to ABRIDGE 35

Tune Information

• Name: CAITHNESS
• Meter: 86.86
• Key: E♭ Major
• Source: Modern form of melody from the 'Scottish Psalter', 1635