The lofty heavens proclaim

Verse 1

The lofty heavens proclaim the majesty of God; the firmament displays his handiwork abroad: day unto day doth utter speech, and night to night doth knowledge teach.

Verse 2

Aloud they do not speak, they utter forth no word, nor into language break; yet is their witness heard: their line through all the earth extends, their words to earth's remotest ends.

Verse 3

In them he hath prepared a dwelling for the sun; which, as a mighty man, exults his race to run; and, bridegroom-like in his array, comes from his chamber, bringing day.

Verse 4

His daily going forth is from the end of heaven; the firmament to him is for his circuit given. He to its end returns again; hid from his heat can nought remain.

Verse 5

The Lord's law is complete; it makes the soul arise: the Lord's decree is sure; it makes the simple wise: the statutes of the Lord are right imparting to the heart delight.

Verse 6

The Lord's command is pure; light on the eyes it pours: the Lord's fear is unstained, for ever it endures: the judgments of the Lord are true, and altogether righteous, too.

Verse 7

More to be prized than gold, yea, much fine gold, they are, than honey from the comb that droppeth, sweeter far. They also warn thy servant, Lord; in keeping them is great reward.

Verse 8

Who can his errors know? From secret faults me cleanse: keep thou thy servant back from all presumptuous sins let them not triumph over me; then shall I pure and upright be.

Verse 9

Yea, then I shall be free from much and heinous sin. O let the words I speak, and all my thoughts within, be acceptable, Lord, to thee, who strength and Saviour art to me.