When I survey life's varied scene

Verse 1

When I survey life’s varied scene, Amid the darkest hours, Sweet rays of comfort shine between, And thorns are mix'd with flowers.

Verse 2

Lord, teach me to adore thy hand, From whence my comforts flow; And let me in this desert land A glimpse of Canaan know.

Verse 3

Is health and ease my happy share? O may I bless my God; Thy kindness let my songs declare, And spread thy praise abroad.

Verse 4

While such delightful gifts as these, Are kindly dealt to me, Be all my hours of health and ease Devoted, Lord, to thee.

Verse 5

In griefs and pains thy sacred word, (Dear solace of my soul!) Celestial comforts can afford, And all their pow'r control.

Verse 6

When present suff'rings pain my heart, Or future terrors rise, And light and hope almost depart From these dejected eyes,

Verse 7

Thy pow'rful word supports my hope, Sweet cordial of the mind! And bears my fainting spirit up, And bids me wait resign'd.

Verse 8

And O, whate’er of earthly bliss Thy sov'reign hand denies, Accepted at thy throne of grace, Let this petition rise:

Verse 9

“Give me a calm, a thankful heart, From ev'ry murmur free; The blessings of thy grace impart, And let me live to thee.”

Verse 10

“Let the sweet hope that thou art mine, My path of life attend; Thy presence through my journey shine, And bless its happy end.”