The heavens declare Thy glory, Lord, Which that alone can fill (Tate and Brady)

Verse 1

The Heav'ns declare thy glory, Lord, which that alone can fill; The firmament and stars express their great Creator's skill.

Verse 2

The dawn of each returning day fresh beams of knowledge brings; And from the dark returns of night divine instruction springs.

Verse 3

Their pow'rful language to no realm or region is confin'd; 'Tis nature's voice, and understood alike by all mankind.

Verse 4

Their doctrine does its sacred sense through earth's extent display; Whose bright contents the circling sun does round the world convey.

Verse 5

No bridegroom on his nuptial day, has such a chearful face; No giant does like him rejoice to run his glorious race.

Verse 6

From east to west, from west to east, his restless course he goes; And, through his progress, chearful light and vital warmth bestows.

Verse 7

God's perfect law converts the soul, reclaims from false desires; With sacred wisdom his sure word the ignorant inspires.

Verse 8

The statutes of the Lord are just, and bring sincere delight; His pure commands in search of truth assist the feeblest sight.

Verse 9

His perfect worship here is fix'd, on sure foundations laid; His equal laws are in the scales of truth and justice weigh'd;

Verse 10

Of more esteem than golden mines, or gold refin'd with skill; More sweet than honey, or the drops that from the comb distil.

Verse 11

My trusty counsellors they are, and friendly warnings give; Divine rewards attend on those, who by thy precepts live.

Verse 12

But what frail man observes how oft he does from virtue fall? O cleanse me from my secret faults, thou God that know'st them all!

Verse 13

Let no presumptuous Sin, O Lord, dominion have o'er me; That, by thy grace preserv'd, I may the great transgression flee.

Verse 14

So shall my pray'r and praises be with thy acceptance blest; And I secure on thy defence, my Strength and Saviour, rest.