O Thou, by long experience tried

Verse 1

O thou, by long experience tried, Near whom no grief can long abide; My love! how full of sweet content I pass my years of banishment!

Verse 2

All scenes alike engaging prove To souls impressed with sacred love! Where'er they dwell, they dwell in thee; In heaven, in earth, or on the sea.

Verse 3

To me remains nor place nor time; My country is in every clime; I can be calm and free from care On any shore, since God is there.

Verse 4

While place we seek, or place we shun, The soul finds happiness in none; But, with a God to guide our way, 'Tis equal joy to go or stay.

Verse 5

Could I be cast where thou art not, That were indeed a dreadful lot; But regions none remote I call, Secure of finding God in all.

Verse 6

My country, Lord, art thou alone; Nor other can I claim or own; The point where all my wishes meet; My law, my love, life's only sweet!

Verse 7

I hold by nothing here below; Appoint my journey and I go; Though pierced by scorn, oppressed by pride, I feel thee good—feel nought beside.

Verse 8

No frowns of men can hurtful prove To souls on fire with heavenly love; Though men and devils both condemn, No gloomy days arise from them.

Verse 9

Ah, then! to his embrace repair; My soul, thou art no stranger there; There love divine shall be thy guard, And peace and safety thy reward.