A little kingdom I possess

1 A little kingdom I posses,
Where thoughts and feelings dwell;
And very hard I find the task
Of governing it well:
For passion tempts and troubles me,
A wayward will misleads,
And selfishness its shadow casts
On all my words and deeds.

2 How can I learn to rule myself,
To be the child I should,
Honest and brave, nor ever tire
Of trying to be good?
How can I keep a sunny soul
To shine along life's way?
How can I tune my little heart
To sweetly sing all day?

3 Dear Father, help me with the love
That casteth out my fear;
Teach me to lean on Thee, and feel
That Thou art very near:
That no temptation is unseen,
No childish grief too small,
Since Thou, with patience infinite,
Dost soothe and comfort all.

4 I do not ask for any crown
But that which all may win:
Nor try to conquer any world
Except the one within.
Be Thou my guide until I find
Led by a tender hand,
Thy happy kingdom in myself,
And dare to take command.


Source: The Church Hymnal: containing hymns approved and set forth by the general conventions of 1892 and 1916; together with hymns for the use of guilds and brotherhoods, and for special occasions (Rev. ed) #628