The Happy Man: From the 23rd Psalm

Verse 1

Happy the man of heavenly birth, Beyond the proudest boast of earth Whom mercy thus sustains: To scenes of living verdure led, Plenty and peace their blessings spread, And not a thought complains.

Verse 2

Conducted by his gracious guide Where streams of sweet refreshment glide, And fed with food divine; God is the guardian of his rest, Beneath his smile, serenely blest, He bids his soul recline.

Verse 3

Yet, should his feet forgetful stray, His guide restores, and points the way To safety, life, and peace; Still mindful of his glorious name, A faithful God is still the same, His paths are righteousness.

Verse 4

Should gloomy shades the path o'erspread, Dark as the mansions of the dead, His heart no terrors wound: His heavenly guardian ever near, Sustains his hope, forbids his fear, And comfort smiles around.

Verse 5

The constant bounty of his Lord, With rich provision spreads his board, Amid repining foes: While peace and gladness on his head Their sweetest odours hourly shed, His cup with bliss o'erflows:

Verse 6

O happy portion! lot divine! Thus shall indulgent goodness shine On all his future days; For ever near his guardian God Shall mercy fix his blest abode And tune his soul to praise.