When we are raised from deep distress

Verse 1

When we are raised from deep distress, Our God deserves a song; We take the pattern of our praise From Hezekiah's tongue.

Verse 2

The gates of the devouring grave Are opened wide in vain, If he that holds the keys of death Commands them fast again.

Verse 3

Pains of the flesh are wont t' abuse Our minds with slavish fears: "Our days are past, and we shall lose The remnant of our years."

Verse 4

We chatter with a swallow's voice, Or like a dove we mourn, With bitterness instead of joys, Afflicted and forlorn.

Verse 5

Jehovah speaks the healing word, And no disease withstands; Fevers and plagues obey the Lord, And fly at his commands.

Verse 6

If half the strings of life should break, He can our frame restore; He casts our sins behind his back, And they are found no more.