O may my soul increase and grow

1 O May my soul increase and grow
In virtue, love and zeal likewise,
Until I conquer ev'ry foe
Of those who daily in me rise.

2 My unbelief, my pride and lust,
My merits and self-righteousness;
My worthless props to which I trust,
How oft do they destroy my peace!

3 They cause in me a war and strife.
They strive to bring me down to yield;
They strive to take my crown of life,
And fain would slay me in the field.

4 But Lord, supported by thy hand,
I shall be able to endure,
Against all such attacks to stand,
And banish Satan with his pow'r.

5 Grant me my Lord that living faith,
By which I stand for ever fast;
And though I fight the pow'rs of death,
Yet I shall conquer all at last.

Source: Church Hymn Book: consisting of newly composed hymns with the addition of hymns and psalms, from other authors, carefully adapted for the use of public worship, and many other occasions (1st ed.) #CCLXXXII