From Eternity, O God

Verse 1

From eternity, O God, In Thy Son Thou didst elect me. Therefore, Father, on life's road Graciously to heav'n direct me; Send to me Thy Holy Spirit That His gifts I may inherit.

Verse 2

Though alive, I'm dead in sin, Lost to all good things by nature. Holy Ghost, change me within, Make of me a new-born creature; For the flesh works ruination And can never gain salvation.

Verse 3

Drive away the gloomy night Of my heart's perverse reflection. Quench all thoughts that are not right; Hold my reason in subjection. Grant that I from Thee, with yearning, Wisdom always may be learning.

Verse 4

All desire and thoughts of mine From my youth are only evil. Save me by Thy pow'r divine From myself and from the devil; Give me strength in ample measure Both to will and do Thy pleasure.

Verse 5

Oh, create a heart in me That in Thee, my God believeth And o'er the iniquity Of my sins most truly grieveth. When dark hours of woe betide me, In the wounds of Jesus hide me.

Verse 6

As a branch upon a vine, In my blessed Lord implant me; Ever of my Head divine To remain a member grant me. O let Him, my Lord and Savior, Be my Life and Love forever!

Verse 7

Faith and hope and charity Graciously, O Father, give me; Be my Guardian constantly That the devil may not grieve me. Grant me humbleness and gladness, Peace and patience in my sadness.

Verse 8

Help me speak what's right and good And keep silence on occasion. Help me pray, Lord, as I should, Help me bear my tribulation. Help me die and let my spirit Everlasting life inherit.