The Heavens declare thy Glory, Lord, Which that, and that alone can fill (Hopkinson)

Verse 1

The Heav'ns declare thy Glory, LORD, Which that, and that alone can fill; The Firmament and Stars express their great Creator's wond'rous Skill: Each Dawn fresh Beams of Knowledge brings, From ev'ry Night Instruction springs.

Verse 2

Their pow'rful Language to no Space, Or Realm, or Region is confin'd; 'Tis Nature's universal Voice, And understood by all Mankind: The Sun their Doctrines doth display, Where-e'er he darts his genial Ray.

Verse 3

No Bridegroom for his Nuptials dress'd, Can shew a more enliven'd Face; No Giant does like him rejoice, To run with Strength his glorious Race; In one unwearied Round he goes, And Light and Heat on all bestows.

Verse 4

GOD's perfect Law converts the Soul, Reclaims the Heart from false Desires; With sacred Wisdom his pure Word The Weak and Ignorant inspires; The Statutes bring sincere Delight; His Word assists the feeblest Sight.

Verse 5

The Fear of GOD most perfect is, And shall for evermore endure; The Judgments of the LORD are true, Most just and altogether pure; More precious than fine Gold they are, And sweeter than the Honey far.

Verse 6

My trusty Counsellors they are, To me they friendly Warnings give: Divine Rewards attend on those, Who by thy Precepts live. But who can all his Errors see? From secret Faults, LORD, cleanse thou me!

Verse 7

Let no presumptuous Sin, O LORD! Obtain Dominion over me; That, by thy Grace preserv'd, I may Far from the great Transgression flee; So shall my Pray'r by thee be bless'd, And I in GOD my Saviour rest.