' * I » 3» V 1 va FROM THE LIBRARY OF REV. LOUIS FITZGERALD BENSON, D. D. BEQUEATHED BY HIM TO THE LIBRARY OF PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY SoS 434 VERSION PSALMS of DAVID, ATTEMPTED IN METRE, JOSEPH COTTLR SECOND EDITION. LONDON: Printed for Longman and Co. P ate most er-roic ; BY SIIEPPARD AXD CO. BRISTOL. 1805. PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. s aceOigi QSias*" jPllOM an early period of life, I have not ceased to regret that Addison should not have written a complete Version of the Psalms -, a work for which he was peculiarly qualified, and which, if he had exe- cuted, it is hardly necessary to add, would altogether have precluded the present attempt. It appears to me that the two following objects should primarily be aimed at by all who undertake to write a Version of the Psalms ; in the first place, to in- troduce as much as is possible of the real language of the Psalms ; and, in the second place, to aim uniformly at the dignified simplicity of the originals. As the Psalmist adopted the vehicle of Poetry for the communication of his sentiments, so the Psalms at present exhibit, in our common translation, not only the finest imagery, and the most exalted ideas, but retain a large proportion of the most correct verse, which admits of being incorporated, with the greatest advantage, into a Metrical Version. From a convic- tion of the truth of this remark, I have endeavoured to adopt, on all occasions, as far as it was practicable, lines, derived from the rich phraseology of the Psalms themselves. iv But although the language of the Psalms, in general, is well suited to the purposes of Divine Poetry, it re- quires but a little reflection to be satisfied, that no ver- sion can be given, without the frequent introduction of words and phrases, not strictly authorised by the Psalter. This liberty neither has nor can be dispensed with, yet there will be found a wide difference be* tween the proportion of this accommodating matter, as well as in its quality ; and on those occasions, where the language of David could not be adopted, I have studiously endeavoured that the additional, or intersti- tial parts, if they were not derived from, should, at least, as far as it was possible, accord with the Psalms. If there be any species of writing which is entitled to the full vigour of an Author's mind and attention, it is unquestionably that in which an attempt is made to sing the praises of the Almighty. Sacred Poetry requires a precision and nicety of expression, perhaps in a superior degree to any other kind. Both the ideas and the language should be simple, yet, elevated and pure. The mind of the Reader, on these subjects, becomes solemnized, and is occupied with thoughts, which are rendered acceptable only as their cymbols flow in a natural and dignified manner. — The highest point of excellence, of which this order of poetry is susceptible, is where the words are forgotten. The instruments are contemptible, compared with the con- ceptions they excite. In reading or singing divine poetry, our minds are in a high state of stimulation ; we wish to glide along, without considering the water which supports us, and to gaze at the star, without remembering the telescope. It is that kind of poetry the essential materials of which, are of no earthly order, and, whilst we are floacing amid ethereal regi- oris, — the play of words, the trite expression, the familiar idiom, with all language, incongruous, irre- verent, or flighty, drags the unwilling spirit back to earth, and fatally interrupts the tide, both of pleasure and devotion. It will not be denied, I believe, by the competent judge, that this class of poetry has been more neglected than any other. Those individual Psalms and Hymns which are excellent of their kind, from their po- pularity, evidence the discriminating sense which is publicly entertained of the true qualities which should prevail in such writings; whilst, at the same time, this partiality is an indirect reflection on the remaining mass of similar poems, which, although often sung, are seldom read or repeated. Pieces! may be approved for their devotion, which cannot be admired for their poetry. It is to be regretted, that both excellencies should not more often be united, and that the noblest and most important of subjects, should be deficient in any of those recommendations which often accompany productions either trifling or pernicious. I he frequent failure in these attempts, has induced some persons to ascribe the cause to the inherent nature of Religious Themes ; but this opinion cannot be adopted with due consideration ; for when, it is recollected that all the views which are suited to in- fluence an immortal spirit exclusively operate on this subject 5 that the most powerful avenues to the human heart are here possessed, and that the feelings they raise are incomparably dignified and interesting, such a sentiment will hardly appear tenable. It is true that profane subjects admit of more tinsel and glitter, w.itk a greater diversity of familiar illustrations ; but if that a 2 VI language which addresses the Father of All Things, and those thoughts which are excited by the Attributes of God, and the final condition of men, fail to elevate the mind, and invigorate the verse, there can be no rational doubt, but that the fault must be ascribed to the Writer y rather than to a Subject, which possesses guch distinguished advantages. I have no right to limit the requirements of the Reader, although, in extenuation of the faults which may appear in the following work, I may be permitted to observe, that, few persons are aware of the difficulty which there is, of catching the ardent spirit of the Psalmist, who, in his divine compositions, poured forth ell the feelings of a soul naturally vigorous, heightened by the extreme circumstances in which he was placed, and who is equally animated and excellent, whether he expresses, contrition for sin ; confidence in God 5 submission to Providence ; the consolations of the upright 5 or, where, in the more solemn tones of Pro- phecy, he predicts the Advent of the Messiah, with the extent and triumph of his spiritual kingdom. It is the feelings of the heart over which David holds sovereign controul. Pathos and Sublimity were equally natural to him, and if he had not been singled by the Almighty, for the most honorable of his Instruments, the same ardour of imagination, and impetuous tem- perament of mind, would have been diverted into new channels, and, in some incalculable way, have still given him pre-eminence amongst the Sons of Genius. Any thing bordering on tameness, therefore, in a Ver- sion of the Psalms, I acknowledge, is the more censure- able, especially in those numerous instances, where David blends the fervour of the Poet, with the sanc- tions and solemnity of the Prophet. Vll I think it right to refrain from taking any notice of what I conceive to be either the excellencies or defects of those works which are similar in their nature to the present, except as it relates to Dr. Watts, concerning whom, I beg to remark, that his qualifications for executing a Version of the Psalms, were of a very superior order. His mind was amply impregnated with both Genius and Piety. Without Piety, Genius may please the imagination, but will never affect the heart 5 and without Genius, Piety will please those only who consider the language and mode in w r hich thoughts are conveyed, as of little consequence j Dr. Watts, however, possessed a Genius which confeired dignity on Piety, and a Piety which ennobled Genius. Between a man, whose talents I thus estimate, and myself, I rejoice to say there is no competition. Our plans are distinct. Dr. Watts's, for the most part, cannot be considered as a Version of the Psalms, but, must be regarded as a Paraphrase of particular parts, blended with all the language peculiar to the New Tes- tament. This distinguishing character in Dr, Watts's Psalms, where David is made to speak, so generally, in the language of an Apostle, has appeared, to some persons, to be an inconsistency, and such it would be, in a professed Version ; but Dr. Watts is not to be con- demned in this respect, for his Psalms are precisely what he declared them to be. He acknowledged them to be imitated only, in the language of the New Testament, which allowed him a latitude of expression, from which he who gives a faithful Version, is necessarily excluded 5 but, on the contrary, if Dr. Watts is not to be censured for the non -performance of what he never undertook, neither is he to have that ascribed to him which he never claimed, and when so large a portion of Vlll almost every Psalm is omitted, and (however excellent) so much new, and extraneous matter added, candor must admit, that it is a violation of terms to call that a Version, which, rightly denominated, is no other than a Collection of Hymns, or Divine Poems, founded upon the Psalms. The ingenious Dr. Watts, with ample cause, regret- ted that the noblest part of divine worship, should, in a considerable degree, fail of its effect, from the imperfect materials then possessed by the public ; he therefore, in a free Paraphrase of David's Psalms, incorporated the language and peculiar doctrines of Christianity, and, by this means, as he thought, ac- commodated it the better for Public Worship. I esteem these compositions so highly, and believe them to have been made so extensively useful, that I am willing to allow them every kind of merit, except that of being a Version of the Psa/ms, But whilst I ex- press my approbation of Dr. Watts' s Psalms, and acknowledge that they are admirably suited to the purpose for which they were designed, it cannot for a moment be admitted, that the Psalms, in their strict and literal sense, are not, also, in the highest degree, cal- culated to express the sentiments of Christians -, and concerning which, every doubt must vanish, when it is recollected that the Psalms of David are not only the language of inspiration, but, as part of the Jewish Liturgy, were sung by our Saviour himself, during his humiliation on earth, by the Apostles, by the pri- mitive Christians, and have been adopted by the Church in all »ages. While therefore, I do the highest honor to the labours and intentions of Dr. Watts, I hope it will not be considered as disrespectful to that great and good man, that I should thus have attempted to do what he incontrovertibly has left undone. It will be proper in this place to inform the Reader, that, although I have named the present, a second edition, it is, in reality, a new work ; and I only mention the second edition, in order to avoid a con- fusion of titles. Some further explanation may be deemed necessary on this subject. Without meaning it as a reflection on former Versions, I may be allowed to say, that, much as I admired all of them, in certain particulars, I had not ascribed to either, that com- manding respect which impressed my mind with the idea of its being presumption to undertake a similar work. I therefore, in the year 180], published a Version of the Psalms, in which I did not profess to give the literal sense, but, in the perusal of each Psalm, I noticed what to me appeared the most striking parts ; and while I endeavoured to give these some one parti- cular direction, I wholly omitted the remainder. After the publication, many persons condemned the plan, whilst others regretted that I should not have given an absolute and literal Version. The work I had executed consisted of short Paraphrases on parti* cular parts of the Psalms-, and although I acknow- ledge that it is liable to some fair exceptions, yet upon the whole, I do not regret the publication of this work. It was not carelessly nor inconsiderately written, and may be read, perhaps, not without advantage ; but I have often regretted my having named it a <( Version of the Psalms," and now think that the limitation should have extended from the preface to the title. The more I considered the subject, (and it was sel- dom absent from my mind) the more I was convinced that there was still room for a Version, attentive to the letter, but above all embracing the spirit of the Psalms. I saw that it was impossible, by any effort of COtrec- tion, to make a literal Version of the first edition of this work ) but I was sensible, at the same time, that the only impediment to the writing of a new Version, was the reluctance which might exist in my own breast, to the commencing so arduous an undertaking. Feel- ing, however, that the subject was congenial, and knowing it to be important, after, I hope, the earnest supplication for the assistance of that Holy Spirit, who- is the Author of every good and perfect gift, I deter- mined to attempt in verse, a complete Version, verse for verse, of the Psalms of David — where, the boldest Genius may learn humility, as well as enrich his mind with the grandest conceptions, and the noblest precepts ! This work I have now executed with all the fidelity I found practicable to the originals, and in other respects, (however unsuccessful) in the best manner which my zealous and patient endeavours could effect. Parallelisms, those remarkable features, in Hebrew Poetry, so particularly pointed out by Bishop Lowth, I have cautiously endeavoured to preserve : whilst, on some few occasions, I have taken the liberty to subjoin to the Psalm, a professed paraphrase, and, on others, to enlarge on a verse which expressed a striking and important sentiment. This is somewhat deviating from what might be expected in a regular Version, yet it is perhaps, the more inlitled to toleration, as it is adding to, rather than subtracting/row, the Psalms, and which, if displeasing to the Reader, may generally be passed over without injury to the sense. I have, how- ever, on these occasions, guarded against the intro- duction of any ideas which might not fairly be inferred from the text. These brief enlargements, or para- phrases, will readily be distinguished, by a reference to the figures in. the margin, which are made to cor- respond with the verses in the Psalms. It should be mentioned,, also, that, in some instances, I have adopted a stanza or two, from the first edition of this work, where it happened, that their quality, as well as their adherence to the Psalm, rendered them unexceptionable; and this I did with the less restraint, as the remaining parts of that edition will never le re-printed. I am not ashamed to acknowledge, that, on many occasions, I have scarcely made any advances towards being satisfied with the success of my efforts. There is often a peculiarity of sense, with a felicity of phrase in the original, which seems to bid defiance to all imi- tation. I might adduce numerous instances to illustrate the difficulty of doing even moderate justice to particular verses, but I will name one or two only. Let any person who is not aware of these difficulties attempt to represent in metre, the ]4th verse of the 19th Psalm. " Let the words of my mouth, and the medi- tations of my heart, le accepted in thy sight, Lord, my strength and my redeemer." Or let him see what he can produce from the ] st verse of the 42d Psalm. As the Hart panteth after the water-lrooks, so pant- eth my soul after thee, O God.' Or let him attempt to exhibit in rhyme, the 22d verse of the 1 18th Psalm. " The Stone which the builders refused, is lecome the head Stone of the corner:" and when these few dif- ficulties are admitted, he will please to remember that there are many such in every Psalm. The first verse also of the 90th Psalm is another striking instance of the imbecility of all metrical transfusion, where the Psalmist breaks forth with the spirit of the ode, in an abrupt, and inimitably dignified reflection : " Lord ! thou hast been our dwelling-place in all generations." Xil 1 have seen no representation of this verse, which I thought happy ; yet I have found it more easy to con- demn than to improve ; and the frequent mortification s, J have experienced, arising from a consciousness of falling so far short of the originals, have been the chief draw-backs, in an undertaking which otherwise would have afforded unalloyed pleasure. But notwithstand- ing my inability to do justice to such a subject, the progress and completion of the present work has been to me, a source of unspeakable delight. — If my affec- tions had not been engaged, I should never have been induced to devote so large a portion of my time and attention to this repeated subject. In giving the present Version to the public, I feel the sorrow of parting with an old friend, in whose society I have passed my happiest days. It has been a refuge to which I, at all times, have fled and found consolation. It has occupied my thoughts by day, and my meditati- ons by night. It has cheered me in sickness and in solitude, and, at the same time, has tended, more than any external cause, to solace my mind under a perma- nent personal affliction . I am thankful to the Almighty that he has enabled me to complete this work, which is devoted to his praise. Imperfect as it is, it may be made the instrument of administering comfort to his servants, when my name shall be forgotten, the thought of which is exhilirating, and sometimes encourages the humble hope that I have not wholly lived in vain. JOSEPH COTTLE, Bristol January \ y 1805. A VERSION OF THE PSALMS. PSALM I. 1 JoLESS'D are the men who walk with thee. And prize, O Lord ! what thou hast said -, Who from the scorner's counsels flee, And shun the paths th' ungodly tread. 2 Who meditate both day and night, Upon thy word, with praise and prayer 5 Who in thy holy law delight, And love to trace their duty there. 3 They, like a tree, by all are seen, That prospers by the river's side 5 Which bears a leaf, for ever green, And spreads its branches far and wide. 4 Not so th' ungodly j they, like chaff, Upon the winds are borne away 5 They lean upon a broken staff, And fall from everlasting day ! 5 No joyful hopes, to them belong, They know no God, in whom to trust 3— They never shall appear, among The congregations of the just! ) Whate'er the righteous do and say, Is noticed and approved on high; But every false, ungodly way. Shall, with its wretched author, die ! PSALM II. 1 W HY do the Heathen rage around, Like a tempestuous sea ? Why are the people wrathful found, With righteousness and thee ? 2 The Kings of Earth against thee rise, O Lord ! with rulers great ; Thy name and precepts they despise, And thy dominion hate. 3 'Gainst thine Anointed, too, they say, To thee, O God, will flee ; Thou never hast forsaken those Who put their trust in thee. 1 1 Sing praises to the Lord Most High, Who dwells on Zion's Hill ; His praises, — let them reach the sky, And Heaven's wide concave fill ! 12 12 When thou shalt inquisition make For blood, unjustly spilt ; Then shall Earth's boasted murderers quake, And Hell reward their guilt ! 13 Thou, who hast raised my sinking head From death's dread gates, O hear. And lenghen out life's slender thread ! My drooping spirit cheer! — 14 That I may still proclaim thy praise. To Zion's daughters, fair, And, of salvation, all my days, To listning crowds declare. 15 Thy foes, O Lord, have dug the pit, In which themselves have slid ; Their feet are taken in the net Which they, for others, hid. 16 Thy ways our highest praise command, Thy judgments are profound: Snared in the works of their own hand, Are all thy foes around. 1 7 The wicked shall be doom'd to hell; There shall their souls be sent, With all the nations that forget The Lord, Omnipotent. 1 8 The poor in heart may suffer long, But thou art still their guide 5 Their expectation shall, ere long, Be fully satisfied. 19 Arise, O Lord! let earth no more In wickedness abound ; Soon shall the heathen's reign be o'er, Whilst thou, with might, art crown'd: 20 Thou, dress'd in terrors, shalt come forth, To judgment once again; That the imperious lords of earth, May know themselves, "but men ! 13 PSALM X. 1 WHY standest thou far off, O Lord ? Affliction long hath been my part : Where are the comforts of thy word, Now trouble presses on my heart ? 2 The wicked, in their pride, have thought T' oppress the poor, of none afraid; In their own toils, shall they be caught ! In the devices they have made ! 3 The wicked boast that they possess Their every wish, their heart's desire 3— The mean and covetous, they bless Whom thou abhorrest ! Heavenly Sire! 4 The sinner's haughty looks, bespeak, The barren and unfruitful ground ; He will not thee, his Maker, seek, — In all his thoughts, no God is found. 5 His ways are grievous in thy sight, Thy judgments, Lord, to him are vain 5 His enemies he counteth light, He puffeth on them with disdain. 6 He, in his heart, hath proudly said, But lofty looks, which scorn controul, Thou wilt bring down unto the dust. 2S Xo more through midnight shades I grope, The Heavens expand their radiant gate - 7 For thou wilt light my Star of Hope, And still my path illuminate. 29 Through thee, have I maintain'd my flight, 'Mid foes, with arms, in dread array 5 And, trusting in my Maker's might, Have leap'd the wall that barr'd my way. 30 Thy plan is perfect, O our Lord ! Immaculate in every part : All those who trust upon thy word Shall find that thou their buckler art. 31 For who, O Lord, is God, save thee ? A rock, a helper, ever nigh ! — Whose empire spreads from sea to sea, Through earth, and to the loftiest sky ! 32 My strength, upon thy power, depends, Thou hast subdued my raging foe : Prosperity, thy blessing sends, With every good that life can know. 33 He makes my feet, like hinds, to fly Where'er my spirit points the way ; He setteth me on places high, With lordly power and kingly sway. 34 My enemies before me reel -, Thy arm prepares me for the war, So that I break the bow of steel, And chase my vanquish'd foes afar. 35 My shield is thy salvation, Lord! This, my defence, from those who hate; And, gratitude doth this record, — Thy gentleness hath made me great ! 36 Thou hast enlarged the path I tread, So that my way is smooth and clear ; The foe, no longer, now, I dread, The hostile shout, no more, I hear. 3/ I have pursued mine enemies, I have overtaken them, in night ; Nor turn'd, from following, till their eyes, Were closed in everlasting night. 38 Them have I pierced with sword and spear, So that, to rise, in vain they try ; No more th' indignant arm they rear, Beneath my feet they prostrate lie. 39 For thou, with strength, hast girded me, Thine is the might, and thine the power; My foes were all subdued by thee, They rose, to perish in an hour ! 40 Upon my enemies, I trod, — Upon their necks, that they might know, That thou, O Lord, alone art God, Through whom, I triumph' d o'er my foe. 41 They also cried to thee, they turn, 'Mid danger ! but they cry in vain 5 Thou didst their supplications spurn, Thou didst repay them with disdain. 42 Then, did they sweeping vengeance find, I beat them, 'mid the clashing fray, Small as the dust before the wind, I cast them, as the dirt, away. 43 Thou hast my mighty foes o'erthrown, "Mid tumults > thou hast screen'd my head ; A people, whom I have not known, My power shall own, my frown shall dread. 44 Soon as they hear thy servant's name, Their towering hearts shall feel dismay 5 Their Captains shall my power proclaim, Their Princes stoop, their Kings obey. 28 45 The strangers' hearts shall fade, for fear, Terror shall rill them with amaze ; They shall, of all my triumphs, hear, And tremble, in their secret ways. 46 The Lord, for ever lives and reigns, He is my rock, my fortress he ; His word alone the world sustains, — And let his name exalted be. 4/ Altho' I drove th' impetuous car, I own, alone, the hand divine -, Thy power upheld me in the war, The victory and the praise be thine ! 48 Thou hast delivered me, and spread, Around my foes, a fearful flood ; Thou raisest high my feeble head, O'er men of violence and blood. 49 Therefore will I give thanks to thee, I will aloud thy might proclaim ; 'Mid lands remote, through earth and sea, My tongue shall shout Jehovah's name, ^50 Thou hast subdued my raging foe, Thy goodness -shall my heart adore ; To David, thou wilt mercy show, And to his seed for evermore. PSALM XIX. 1 JL HE Heavens declare thy glorious name, Thou Lord of Life, and God of All ! This grand and universal frame, At first didst thou from nothing call. 2 The sun and moon, with all their train, That throng the glowing vault of night j With voice articulate and plain, Proclaim the wonders of thy might. 3, 4 Thou, unconfined, by space or time, Display' st thy power, through endless years 3 In every age, in every clime, The majesty of God appears ! Thou hast prepared, 'mid heights profound, A temple for the Orb of Day ; Through which, in pomp and splendour crown'd, He speeds his everlasting way : 5 From clouds and darkness issuing forth, With the strong Racer's arduous stride, Whilst Heaven reflects his face on earth, He spreads his fervent glories wide.— 6 Amid the blue expanse of sky, From end to end, he reigns supreme, Like an august Divinity, Whilst all things drink his kindling beam. On Earth, "Omnipotence!" we hear Express'd from every form and sense; Whilst Heaven, with accent still more clear, Again repeats "Omnipotence!" 7 Thy laws, O Lord, shall still endure, On these, from Earth to Heaven, we rise; Thy testimonies, too, are sure, Which make the simple truly wise. 8 The statutes of our God are right, Where Men, the truth, may ever see 5 And thy commands, O Lord, delight, The heart that doth confide in thee. 9 Thy fear is pure, and ever new, Lasting as Heaven's revolving star ; The judgments of the Lord be true, — They altogether righteous are. 10 More to be coveted are they, Than gold, from Ophir's richest mine; Sweeter than honey, they repay, The owner's heart, with joy divine. 30 11 Warnings, from death, in them I find, For they, alone thy will record j And tho' they check my froward mind, In keeping them is great reward. 12 Who can his errors understand, Or count his numberless revolts ? Extend, O Lord, thy saving hand,-- - O cleanse my heart from secret faults. 13 Restrain me from presumptuous sins ! Let them, no more, dominion see -, Then shall my soul be innocent, And from the great transgression free. 14 O let my thoughts, and every word, Which daily from my lips may fall, Acceptance find, with thee, O Lord ! My Strength, Redeemer, All in All ! PSALM XX. 1 JL HE Lord thy supplications hear, And yet thy fainting spirit cheer, 'Till time, with all its sorrows, end, The God of Jacob be thy friend ! — 2 Send thee support from Zion's Hill, And strengthen thee in mercy still : His might shall save thee when oppress'd. His sanctuary calm thy breast. 3 May God remember all thy cares, Thy sacrifices, and thy prayers -, Thy offerings, and thy songs of praise, Which thou hast offer'd all thy days: — I Grant thee the wishes of thy heart, With Israel's portion give thee part; Fulfil thy counsels, and defend, Thy head, from harm, till life shall end. 31 5 To thee, O God, we raise our voice, In thy salvation we rejoice : We will, whilst thus thy name we fear, The foe-defying banner rear. 6 Now know I, that thy help is nigh, To all who on their Maker, cry ; The saving strength of thy right-hand, Shall drive the Heathen from the land. 7 Some, with the horse, defy their foes, Some, in the chariot, trust repose ; But we, from earthly help, will fly, And on the Lord alone, rely. 8 They who have trusted aught beside, Are humbled in their towering pride 5 Whilst we are raised from Earth, and see Confusion drown our enemy. 9 Save us, O Lord, from every foe, Lay each aspiring spirit low ; O let our condescending King, Regard the grateful song we bring. PSALM XXL 1 JLHE King shall triumph in thy might, He is the object of thy choice ; In thy salvation, Lord of light ! How greatly shall his soul rejoice. 2 His heart's desire hast thou bestow'd — Each hope that fill'd his anxious breast; To him, hast thou thy favour show'd, O Lord, and granted his request. J For him, whose state was once abased, Thou hast to-morrow's table spread; And in thy mercy, thou hast placed, A Crown of Gold upon his head. 32 4 He asked life, and life was given, By him, whose goodness he adored; — E'en length of days, and smiling Heaven Bestow'd the blessing he implored. 5 In thy salvation he is great, There is his glory and defence $ Him, power and majesty await, Supported by thy providence. 6 Thou, on thy servant, shalt bestow, Thy cheering smiles, and let hini see, Beyond this world of sin and woe, Lasting and full felicity. 7 The King confided in the Lord, He saw that other help was vain - y And, trusting in Jehovah's sword, Securely shall he live and reign. 8 Thy hand shall find thine enemy, Thy right-hand shall find out thy foe : Altho' from thee they fain would flee, All those who hate thee thou dost know, 9, 10 They shall be barren from their birth, Their names and heritage shall fail ; Their offspring shalt thou sweep from earth, As the small dust before the gale. 1 1 For they intended ill to thee, The mischievous device was theirs > But they their folly soon shall see, And perish in their impious snares. .1 2 In vain shall they attempt to fly, As they thy vengeful bow survey ; Past is the hour of clemency, Thy wrath shall whelm them in dismay, 13 Be thou exalted, O our King ! In thine own strength do thou appear 3 So shall our tongues thy praises sing, And Earth's ten thousand regions hear* 33 PSALM XXII. 1 My God ! My God ! 'Why hast thou thus, Withdrawn thy cheering ray ? Why art thou far from helping me ? Why art thou far away ? 2 My God ! to thee, by day, I cry,— In sorrow I complain ; The night is burden'd with my sigh, But still I sigh in vain. 3 Yet thou, O Lord, art ever bless'd — Holy in all thy ways ; Thou, O our God, inhabitest Israel's exalted praise. 4 Our fathers trusted in thy name, On thee did they depend ; And in the depth of woe extreme, Thou didst deliverance send. 5 To thee did they direct their cry, Nor didst thou them confound; They rais'd to thee th' imploring eye, And timely succour found. 6 I am abased in thy sight, — Kin to the worm of Earth; My friends disdain their past delight 5— I am the people's mirth. 7 They laugh at me, and at my state, Insulting scomngs make j They shoot their lips, in fervent hate, The scornful head they shake. 8 They say, u He trusted in the Lord, " On him did he depend 5 f< Now let the God, on whom he call'd, ff Speedy deliverance send ! " b 2 g Yet thou didst take me from the womb To see the light of day ; With hope, thou didst inspire me, When on the breast I lay. 10 On thee, from childhood, was I cast. Thy bounteous hand I own ; Thou hast provided each repast, That lengthen'd life has known. 11 Be not far from me, in this hour Of anguish and distress ! None but thyself, O Lord, hath power, To sooth my wretchedness. 1 2 Oxen, their loud defiance, sound, And threat me, in their pride \ Strong Bulls of Bashan, close me round, And stand on every side. 13 They gape upon me, with their mouths. They hedge about my way • And, like a ravening Lion, roar, To plunge upon their prey. 14 Like water, I am poured out, My wearied bones are sore $ My heart within me melts like wax, I seem as one no more. 15 My tongue, it cleaveth to my mouth, My strength is dried away ; I hasten to the dust of death, From the sweet gleam of day. 16, 1/ Dogs and devouring men are round, For harm, they all agree 5 The counsels of the bad prevail, And they lay siege to me. They pierced both my hands and feet, My every bone I tell $ Upon my anguish' d countenance, With scoffing joy they dwell. 35 IS Among them, in an evil hour, My garments they divide 5 Whilst for my vesture, they cast lots,, Fill'd with contempt and pride. ig Yet be not thou far off, O Lord,, Support me to the end 5 Thou art my succour and my hope, My best and only friend. 20 Deliver my afflicted soul, High and exalted Lord ! From Dogs that compass me around— From the devouring sword. 21 O save me from the Lion's mouth, For thou hast hear'd my cry • From the fierce horned Unicorn, To thee, for aid, I fly. 22 I will declare thy glorious might, To all my brethren round 5 Mid our assemblies, with delight, I will thy praises sound. 23 O ye that love the Lord, rejoice, The pealing anthem raise 3 Ye seed of Jacob, let your voice Shout forth Jehovah's praise. 24 For he hath not our prayer disdain'd, — Th' afflicted soul abhorr'd, Nor hid his face, when they complain'd, Who trusted in the Lord. 25 1, in the congregation, still, Will of thy goodness sing ,• To thee will I my vows fulfil, And daily offerings brincf. 2(5 Tho' Tyrants rise on every side, And wicked rulers reign j The meek shall still be satisfied, Nov serve their God in vain. 36 27 Great King ! Thy sun, ere long, shall shine, In one unclouded day, And all the ends of earth combine, To own thy sovereign sway. 28 Thou art the Potentate, alone, Of all the nations round ; Earth is thy foot-stool, Heaven thy throne ! Thine empire knows no bound ! 29 Those who descend unto the dust, Confess thy high controul ; Whilst none, whate'er his boasted trust, Can keep alive his soul. 30 Tho' wickedness the nations fill, Some shall be true to thee ; A seed shall serve the Lord, and still A Generation be. 31 They shall, 'mid songs of loudest praise, Thy righteousness commend, And tell of all thy wonderous ways, 'Till time itself shall end. PSALM XXIII. 1 s And when th' appointed time shall come, That I must seek my narrow home; Follow where all the Prophets led, Down to the chambers of the dead : Close my sad eyes on every scene, Which once my dear delight had been ; Forsake the fair abodes of men, And, dust to dust, return again j — I will not dread, for thou art near, Thy smile shall calm each rising fear ; Thy rod and staff new joy impart, And cheer, with hope, my fainting heart. - Confiding in Jehovah's power, I then will meet the trying hour j And hail, with my expiring breath, The cold and lonely vale of death. Our fathers pass'd that gloomy road, Awhile, our fathers there abode j None hath, in Heaven, im anchor cast, Who hath not Jordan's, billows past. When death shall summon me away, If thou but smile, my night is day ; That dark and dreary vale once trod, And 1 ascend to thee, my God ! PSALM XXIV. JL HIS beauteous earth on which we stand, (A Paradise except for sin !) Was form'd by God's almighty hand ; — The world, and they that dwell therein. He hath its mighty pillars laid, Upon the ocean's foaming tide : Sea, Heaven, and Earth, by him were made Whose hands the \n heels of Nature guide. 39 3 Who shall ascend, in triumph grand, Thy hill,, O Lord, and see thy lace ? Who in thy favour' d courts shall stand ? Jerusalem,, thou holy place ! — 4 He who despises vanity ; (For him, the joys of Heaven are sure ;) Who hath not sworn deceitfully, Whose hand is clean, whose heart is pure. 5 He from his Maker shall obtain, When these low fading scenes decay ; Blessings that ever shall remain, — Salvation, in the realms of day. 6 This is the envied lot of those, Who would, the Hill of Zion, climb; — Who all that better country chose, Which lies beyond the bounds of time. 7 Lift up your heads, ye gates of brass! Ye everlasting doors expand ! And let the King of Glory pass, With his redeem'd and joyous band ! 8 Who is the King of Glory ? Say ! Thou fruitful Earth ! Thou boundless Sky !- « The Lord of Might! The God of Day !" All things that live and move reply. 9 Lift up your heads, ye gates of brass! Ye everlasting doors expand ! And let the King of Glory pass ! With his redeem'd and spotless Band. 10 Who is this King of Glory? He Whose mandate Heaven and Earth obey ! Whose word restrains the raging sea ! — The Lord of Hosts ! The God of Day ! 40 PSALM XXV. 1 W HILST cares tempestuous o'er me roll, And deep is my distress ; To thee,, O Lord, I lift my soul, And find my sorrows less. 2 My God ! To thee I raise my eyes, I put my trust in thee ; Let not my enemies arise, And triumph over me. 3 Let none who call upon thy name, Confusion e'er oppress : Those shall be overwhelm* d with shame, Who without cause transgress. 4 Shew me thy ways ! I would retreat, To that celestial ground j Teach me thy paths ! O let my feet In such be ever found. 5 Teach me thy truth, or I shall miss, The heavenly Zion's gate ; Thou art the fountain of all bliss, On thee alone I wait. 6 Thy former mercies call to mind, Let them remember' d be 5 Thou once, O Lord, wert good and kind, Be still the same to me. 7 Pardon the sins of early youth, The crimes which once were dear 5 Before I knew the ways of truth, Or learn' d thy law to fear. pardon them, nor them alone, But sins of riper years ; 1 would my past offences own, With contrite sighs and tears. 41 8 Upright and good, art thou, O Lord, Therefore wilt thou incline Sinners, to love thy holy word, And walk in paths divine. 9 Thou wilt, O Lord, for those provide, On thee, their cares, who cast : Thou wilt the meek and humble guide, To Heaven, their home, at last. 10 From those who, thee, their Maker praise, Thou never wilt withdraw j Mercy and truth are all thy ways, To such as keep thy law. 11 Do not my sinful soul forsake, Nor yet thy wrath display; Pardon me for thy mercy's sake, O take my guilt away ! 12 What man is he who fears the Lord, And in his ways would move ? To him, Jehovah will afford, Instruction from above, 13 His soul shall ever dwell at ease, Whilst others feel distress ; The Lord, shall with a large increase, His faithful servants bless. 14 Perplexities, the proud confound, But whilst they wander far, The secret of the Lord is found, With those who humble are. 15 I seek the things which are above, And thou shalt pluck my feet, From ways, that might my ruin prove, From sin and from deceit. 1 6 Turn thou, O Lord! On thee I wait; No more in anger frown, For I am poor and desolate, My sorrows weigh me down. 42 J 7 The troubles of my heart increase, Affliction sore doth press j Once more, O Lord, impart thy peace., Bring me from my distress ! 18 Look on my sorrow and my pain, Once more my soul revive j Reveal, O Lord, thy face again, And all my sins forgive. 19 Many my enemies, and great, With wrath their hearts o'erflow , They hate me with intenser hate, Than man to man should show. 20 O keep my soul from each offence ! To thee, O Lord, I flee -, I would not be my own defence, But put my trust in thee. 21 Let stern integrity be mine, Which nought like sin doth dread ; Let uprightness for ever shine, Upon the path I tread. 22 From all their troubles and distress, Redeem thy chosen race ! Let those, O Lord, thy name confess, Who soon shall see thy face. PSALM XXVJ. dJ UDGE me in faithfulness, O Lord, For thou hast been my guide 5 I have confided in thy word, Therefore I shall not slide. Examine me, O Lord, and prove, Thy saving grace impart ; Each idol from my breast remove, And try my reins and heart. 43 3 Thy loving kindnesses appear Where'er I turn my eyes ; Each moment some new blessings cheer — Some unseen mercies rise. 4 The men, whose hearts are vain, I shun,, Dissemblers, too, I hate -, Their feet to quick destruction run, But I, on thee, will wait. 5 Th' ungodly never shall admit My feet, to join their throng j I will not with the wicked sit, Nor to their tribe belong. 6 I, to thine altar, will repair, With innocence my guide ; I will approach my Maker there, And in his strength confide. 7 There shall my heart thanksgivings raise ; Be this my best repast ! My tongue shall own thy wonderous ways., While life and being last. 8 Lord, 1 have loved, with holy zeal, The house of praise and prayer j For there dost thou thyself reveal, To all who seek thee there. Q When I have pass'd this fleeting life, Let not my portion be With men of cruelty and strife, — With those who scoff at thee 3 10 Who in thy courts, with offerings, stand, While feigned tears would start \ Tho' wickedness is in their hand, And treachery in their heart ! 1 1 But I, in paths, will ever walk. Which lead to Zion's hill 5 Of thee will I delight to talk, O shew me mercy still ! 44 12 My feet, in stedfastness, are found, My trust in thee is strong 5 Therefore will I thy praises sound, Amid th' assembled throne:. PSALM XXVII. JLORD of my light, to thee I bow, Thou art my rock and only trust; My strength and my salvation thou;— Why should I fear the Child of Dust? When all my foes, terrific came, To tear me in their lion rage 5. Thy word did put them all to shame, Thy power their burning wrath assuage, Tho' hostile hosts against me rose, I will not fear, nor turn aside; Tho' earth around me teemed with foes, In thee alone will I confide : One thing, of God, would I implore, That would I seek for, all my days 3— That I may in his courts adore, And sing, with saints, my Maker's praise. Me, in the hour of sore distress, In his pavilion, he shall hide ; He, on a rock, my feet shall place, And compass me on every side. Now shall my head be lifted high Above my enemies around ; I bring the sacrifice of joy, The grateful anthem, loud I sound. Hear me, O Lord, when I complain, Regard thy servant's humble cry ; Let me not call on thee in vain, But, in thy mercy, aid supply, 45 8 When thou didst bid me seek thy face, My heart, obedient, thus replied 3 — The world is one wide wilderness, Be thou my portion, thou my guide ! g Hide not thyself, O Lord, at last, Put not, in wrath, my soul away ; Thou wert my help in seasons past, O leave me not to hell, a prey ! 10 Father and mother, may forsake, Each earthly joy will have an end ; But those who, God, their refuge make. Will find an everlasting friend. 1 1 Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead My feet, by thine almighty power; Thou art my help, in time of need, O save me, in this adverse hour! 12 Thou art, O Lord, my last resource, On all sides round, the foe, I see;— Men who are strangers to remorse, And such as breathe out cruelty.— 13 In many a dark and cheerless day, When cares o'erwhelmed me like a sea^ My soul had fainted by the way, But for my confidence in thee. 1 4 Wait on the Lord ! New courage take ! He is the portion of the just; He shall uphold the souls who make Their God, their hope and only trust. PSALM XXVIII. O Lord, my rock, to thee I cry, Regard my earnest prayer 3 Lest in the pit of death I lie, Or sink into despair. 46 In mercy listen to my call, My supplications hear, When, in thy holy Oracle, Th' imploring hand I rear. From men, immersed in guilt and guile, My soul would stand apart ; Who greet their neighbours with a smile, While mischief rills their heart. Thou dost behold their evil ways, Thou wilt their deeds requite ; Thou wilt o'erwhelm them with amaze, And drive them from thy sight. Eecause they scorn thy wonderous power, The works thy hands display ; Thou shalt destroy them in an hour, Their names shall die away. Bless'd be the Lord, for he hath heard The voice of my distress j I, in believing on his word, Have found my sorrows less. Thou art my strength, and thou my shield, On whom my heart relies ; To thee, the grateful song, I yield, Whose sound shall reach the skies. Thou art the bulwark of the just, On whom their souls depend : The righteous in Jehovah trust, And find a faithful friend. Preserve and prosper, O Most High ! The people of thy choice ; Feed them with manna, from on high, And let them still rejoice. 47 PSALM XXIX. ], 2 X^rlVE to the Lord, ye men of might, The honor due unto his name ; Worship your Maker with delight, And sound his praise with loud acclaim. Glory and strength, to God ascribe, In holiness approach his throne 5 Let every people, tongue, and tribe, Jehovah's matchless wonders own. 3, 4 His voice is heard upon the shore, When ocean sweeps th' incumbent sky • He speaks when pealing thunders roar, His voice is full of majesty. o 3 6 The lofty pine, and cedar proud, On Sirion's brow by him are rent 5 Whilst Lebanon, with discord loud, Re-echoes through the firmament. His power, earth's central rocks obey, They hear his voice, and upward bound ■ Whilst the proud mountains sportive play, With woods and towering forests crown d. 7, 8 The voice of God, the flame divides, His frown, the pathless deserts own ; E'en Kadish, when Jehovah chides, Trembles, in wild amazement thrown. Q Through him the hinds bring forth their young, He points the forest's safe retreat 5 Whilst, in his temple, every tongue, His glory chaunts, in anthems sweet. 3 Jehovah sits upon the flood, Whilst prostrate billows round adore ; His throne through countless years hath stood,. And shall endure for ever more. 4S 1 i The Lord will to h:? give do in their Peace shall attend theni while they live, And life expire in PSALM XXX. D LORD, I will extol thy name, For thou hast rais'd me fa Thou hast not let my foes proclaim,, O'er me, their vie i :h which my heart o'errl : To thee, my God, I cried ! iiou, in n: : bestow' d The good, for which I sigh'd. Thee will I praise, while I have breath ; Thou canst in sick:: Thcu hast preserved my :h_, And from the silent grave. : . :o the Lord ! his power conf^ Ye saints, your Maker r Lx:ol aloud his holi:. Through all your future He o'er your sins a mantle c? And tho' he frown awhile : .-.ger but a moment lasts, While hfe is in his smile. The righteous may contend a night, With sorrow, and with pain; Bat, joy shall, with the morning light, Return and cheer again. In my prosperity, I said, I, never more, shall know ;situde, or be dismay'd, With sickness, want, or woe. 49 r Lord, in thy farour, thou hast made, My hill, in strength to shine; Thou didst thy countenance o*ershade» A::d rrief cr.ce m;re v.-as mine. 6 Yet, thoh ' :- m.:\ And :1m : m rrtm-ett mir; Still, to my G; ■::. I hnmhly cried, And pour d the earnest prayer. 9 "When to the grave rev steps descend, Can Dust Jehovah praise ? Can Death the voice of Truth attend, Arm mnm m pilings r 2 i -e : 10 V. ;.."-. r.;v G;c, mm Kinm Timt mm I mniiy p'm : Ee then my heir::, let nte sir.p. Thy rmm:le> i^y by dm. 1 1 From anguish and distress made free, Songs -hill my tc:: rue emrlm. Thou hast with gladness girded me, And sorrow turned to joy : _ Th praises will I hence declare, Whom Heaven's bright hosts adore , Thm -hilt my best thmmmivmr? share. From this time evermore. PSALM XXXI. 1 IN thee, O Lord, I put my trust, Ashamed, ne'er let me be j Tho* I am vile, the Child of dust, From harm deliver me. 2 Bow down thine ear, O Lord, how long ! Thy speedy aid bestow ; Be thou d my fortress strong, My shield from every t 50 3 Thou art my rock, my fortress too, My guard from every snare ; O guide my steps, and lead me through This wilderness of care. 4 From nets which they have secretly, To catch my footsteps, laid, save me, Lord! To thee I fly, grant me timely aid ! 5 Great God of truth, thou hast seen fit, To bring me near to death ; To thee my spirit I commit, — To thee resign my breath ! Tho' from this world of sin and woe, My soul, ere long, must flee ; Resign'd I am, for well I know — Thou hast redeemed me ! 6 Those who delight in vanities, 1 hate with perfect hate - y 1 scorn the liar and his lies, And on my God will wait. 7 To thee, my vows, will I fulfil, — Thy name for ever bless -, Thou, in adversity, hast still Remember' d my distress." 8 Thy goodness will I ne'er forget, Thou hast subdued my foe , In a large place my foot is set, While blessings round me floiv* g Have mercy on me, O my God! Afflictions o'er me roll; I suffer thy chastising rod, While sighs consume my soul. 10 My life is spent with grief, my years, In sorrow, waste away; O'er mine iniquities, with tears, I spend the tedious clay. 51 1 1 My foes reproach me, and each friend, Contemplates me with fear 5 Their smiles, my neighbours, e'en suspend, Or, fly, as I draw near. 12 I am forgotten, like the man, Descended to the grave, Who long has past life's little span; Or, like a broken wave. 13*1 hear'd the slander of the croud, Fear was on every side ; In all their confidence, the proud, For " life" and " vengeance" cried. 14 But in the Lord I put my trust j With secret joy I said, Thou art my God, and, o'er the just, Thou wilt thy mantle spread. 15 O save me from the enemy, Who 'gainst me proudly stand; My times, O Lord, are known to thee, They all are in thy hand. 16 Do thou upon my prospect break, With pity's kindling ray 3 O save me for thy mercies' sake ! O take my sins away ! 17 I have confided in thy name, Preserve my soul from ill : Sinners shall be o'erwhelrnd with shame, And as the grave be still. 19 Let lying lips no longer dare, The Kighteous to deride 5 Who false and grievous things declare, Contemptuous in their pride. 19 What fervent joy, what true delight, For those, in Heaven, await, Who walk, as in Jehovah's sight, Through this their mortal state! 52 Thou hast laid up a rich repast, For such, great source of love ! Pleasures that shall for ever last, At thy right-hand above. 20 Thou, in thy presence, them shalt hide, In thy pavilion fair -, Thou shalt preserve their souls from pride, From strife, and every snare. 21 Bless'd be the Lord, for he hath shew'd, To me his wonderous ways ; And I, whilst journeying on Life's road, Will ever sing his praise. 22 In haste, I said, before thine eye, No more shall I appear j Yet thou didst listen to my cry, — My supplications hear. 23 Ye Saints, with songs, your Maker praise, O love and trust the Lord, Who will the proud, and their proud ways, Abundantly reward. 24 All ye who in the Lord confide, Forget your troubles past ; Be of good courage ! God will guide His Saints, to Heaven at last. PSALM XXXIL 1, 2 jBLESS'D is the man who trusts in Heaven, And whose transgressions are forgiven 5 To whom the Lord a friend will be, Imputing not iniquity. Bless'd is the man who guile disdains, In whom, nor sin, nor falsehood reigns 5 Whose upright spirit scorns the lie, — Deceit, and all hypocrisy. 3 When I, who had such mercies known, Have silence kept ; in tumult thrown I heard the accusing voice within,— My bones consumed with conscious sin. 4 With nought my wounded heart to heal, By day and night, thy hand I feel : My frame is like the earth, around, When summer suns have parch' d the ground, 5 My sins, O Lord, I own to thee, I feel my deep iniquity ; If I, with tears, my crimes confess, Thou wilt again my spirit bless. All who, in truth, their God adore, Of God, forgiveness will implore : Such shall, in peace, preserve their soul, E'en when the floods of trouble roll. 7 Thou shalt endue me with thy grace 5 Thou art alone my hiding-place : In trouble, thou shalt be my friend, And compass me, 'till time shall end. 8 " I will my faithful servants show f€ The way in which their feet should go> His counsels, pride, betray, But his devices, and his schemes, Like clouds, shall pass aw r ay. 1 1 Thy purpose and thy thought shall stand, Firm, in eternal might, When Time has dropt his wither'd hand, And plung'd in endless night. 12 Bless'd are the nations who confess, The Lord of Life and Love ! His People will Jehovah bless, In realms of joy above! 13 Mid all our three- score years and ten, From realms of endless day, The Lord beholds the sons of men,— And marks their every way. 14 From his pavilion, veil'd in light, Where the rapt Seraph sings, He, in his comprehensive sight, Surveys all human things. 15 Howe'er conceal'd from mortal eye, And into darkness thrown -, To him, our ways unfolded lie, — To him, our thoughts are known! It) No King is saved in the fight, By the tumultuous host -, In vain the towering men of might,. Of arms and valour boast, i 56 17 We cannot on the horse depend, Tho' great in strength he be; The Lord, alone, defeat, doth send, Or crown with victory. 1 8 Thine eye is ever on the just, — To guard, from harm, his head ; Thou wilt, for all who in thee trust, Provide their daily bread, lp Mid famine, none shall yield his breath, Thy Saints shall dearth survive -, Thy power shall save their souls from death, And keep them still alive. 20 To God, the grateful heart we yield, Our help in every strait 5 " Thou art our strength, and thou our shield, On whom our spirits wait. 21 To thee will we exalt our voice, And humbly bend the knee ; We, in thy name, will still rejoice, And put our trust in thee. 22 To us, be all thy blessings given, Whilst wandering here below ; According as we hope in Heaven,. Do thou thy mercy show. PSALM XXXIV. J- HE Lord, at all times, I will bless, And evermore his praise proclaim 5 Come sound abroad his righteousness, And tell the wonders of his name. In thee, O Lord, my soul shall boast, The hostile spear is turn'd aside! Thoa, to the humble, art a host, In whom their trembling hearts confide. 57 3 O magnify the Lord with me, Let us together join and sing, Hosannahs, with loud minstrelsy, To Israel's high and lofty King ! 4 I sought the Lord, with fervent zeal, And he his servant deign'd to hear ; He made my spirit comfort feel, He bade my heart no terrors fear ; 5 To Him they look'd, tho' far away, Their lighten'd hearts pure rapture share - y They saw the dawn of endless day, And bless'd the opening prospect fair. Q This Pcor Man to his Father cried, — The Lord beheld his misery, And tho' o'erwhelm'd with sorrow's tide. From all his troubles set him free. 7 Angels encamp, altho' unseen, Round those who fear the Lord on high ; They from impending dangers screen,- The Heirs of Immortality. 8 O taste and see that he is kind ! For him, your time and talents spend} The Poor, in God, a refuge find, Th' oppress'd, an ever-present friend, 9 O praise the Lord, ye saints above! O fear the Lord, ye saints below! All those who God their Maker love, No want, of real good, shall know. 10 The Lion, for his food may cry, And to the savage wastes complain 5 But those who on their God rely, Shall never ask, and ask in vain. .1 1 Children ! My voice, attentive hear, True knowledge shall my words unfold 5 I will instruct you in the fear, Of him, whose hands the Heavens uphold, c 2 58 12 What man is he who seeketh life, And many pleasant days would see ; Whose heart would dwell remote from strife. And, whilst he lives, would happy be ? — 13 Restrain thy tongue ! That little foe, Yet, mighty, to disturb thy mind - y Let not thy heart with guile o'erflow, And be to all men good and kind. 14 Depart from sin and every vice, All good, to practice, be thy care ; Seek Peace, that pearl ! at any price, Pursue it, as a Jewel rare. 15 The eyes of God are ever nigh To all the Righteous, in their grief ; His ears are open to their cry, And he will send them quick relief. 3 6 But they who evil do and love, No God shall hear, when they complain -> From Earth he will their names remove, And cover them with his disdain. 17 When, for their sins, the Righteous grieve, And their unfruitful works confess 3 God heareth them, and will relieve, From all their troubles and distress. 18 Whoe'er are of a broken heart, The Lord regards their feeblest cry - 7 He will, to contrite souls, impart, Salvation, from his courts on high, 1Q Mid sorrows, oft the Righteous move, Many afflictions are their share -, But in due time, the Lord they love, Will rescue them from all their care, 20 They are secure in every hour, Amid each danger and alarm 5 By his unseen and sovereign power, He keepeth all their bones from harm. 59 21 Th* Ungodly, who, the Righteous, hate, Ere long, their folly shall bewail ; They shall be scom'd and desolate, Their hopes — their very name shall fail. 22 But God, with smiles, regards the just, He saves them for his mercy's sake $ All those who in their Maker trust, Shall never mourn the choice they make. PSALM XXXV. 1 JP LEAD thou my cause, O Lord,, with those, Who still my harm contrive • Fight thou against my many foes, — 'Gainst all who with me strive. 2 Be thou my help, be thou my shield, To thee, O Lord, I fly 3 Thy sword, for my deliverance, wield, Appear, or else I die. 3 Shut up their way ! Draw out the spear ! Let me thy goodness see ! And whisper in my waiting ear, That I may hope in thee. 4 Those shall be put to shame, who long To take my life away ; All power and might, to thee belong, Whom Heaven and Earth obey. 5 Borne like the chaff before the wind, — Their reign shall soon be o'er ; Angels shall chase them from behind, And ruin gape before. 6 The Angels of the Lord, their way, Shall dark and slippery make, And persecute from day to day, All who their God forsake. 6o 7 They, without cause, have laid the snare, To trap my heedless feet ; They secretly the pit prepare, And watch for my defeat. — 8 Ruin shall seize them unawares -, Themselves shall be afraid, And fall into the very snares, Which they for me have laid! 9 I will be joyful in the Lord, And make his ways my choice ; In his salvation and his word, My soul shall still rejoice. 10 My bones, preserved by thee, shall say, Who can with God compare ? — Who sets the poor and needy free, And spoils th' oppressor's snare ? 11, 12 False witnesses my soul dismay, The charge untrue they make $ My good, with evil, they repay, They fain my life would take. 13 Yet when they e'er have felt disease, Fasting, I sackcloth wore, And pray'd, that it, the Lord, might please To raise them up once more. J 4 As they my friends or brethren were, My soul, with grief, was worn -, 1, heavily, bow'd down with care, Like who their mothers mourn. 15 But they, at all my sorrows, smiled, They heard my sighs in vain 5 The very abject, me, reviled, And scofFd in proud disdain. 16 With hypocrites, they on me breathe, Unceasing scorn and hate ; They gnash'd upon me with their teeth, As they beheld my state. 51 17 How long shall sorrow o'er me roll, And I with grief be drown 'd ? Rescue, O Lord, my trembling soul, From lions fierce around ! 18 Amid the congregations great, My tongue thy name shall praise ; Upon the Lord my soul shall wait, Through all my future days. 19 Let not, O God, mine enemy, Triumphant joy display ; Or wink with the malicious eye, When they my state survey. 20 Those who are peaceful, they abhor, Whilst, with deceit, they strive, To rouse the dormant spark of war, And keep its flame alive. 21 Their mouths, in scorn, they open'd wide, Haughty as man might be, And said, in their contemptuous pride,— This hour we live to see ! 22 This hast thou also seen, O Lord ; Let not my foes succeed 5 — Be not far from me, but afford, Help, in this hour of need. 23 Stand up in my defence ! Awake ! For 1 have loved thy laws -, O save me for thy mercy's sake ! O plead my righteous cause ! H4 Judge me, O Lord, in my distress, Restrain my raging foe 5 According to thy righteousness, Let them no triumph know. 25 T^et none exclaim, with joy supreme, As they have done before; 4t We with our might have swallow'd him " His reign and day are o'er ! " 62 26 They to confusion shall be brought. Who at my hurt are glad ; They all of them shall come to nought, With deep dishonour clad* 27 They who, my righteous cause, approve, Let them these words express, — Depart from evil, and do good, So shall you dwell in endless day. 28 God loveth judgment and the just, His saints are his peculiar care j But sinners shall dissolve as dust, And vanish, as the mist, in air. 29 Earth's truest blessings, here below, The Righteous ever shall possess 5 Or if, awhile, they taste of woe, E'en sorrow, in the end, shall bless. 30 The righteous oft of wisdom speak, Of judgment do they love to talk; And they instruct, with spirit meek, All, in the paths of Heaven, to walk. 31 The just, from every sin, depart, From guile, oppression, lust, and pride ; The law of God is in their heart, Nor shall their footsteps ever slide. 32 Sinners, with ceaseless wrath, behold, The R ighteous, whom they seek to slay; But God will still the Just uphold, And turn, th' Oppressor's sword away. 33 The Lord, his servants, will not leave, Mid those, who, in their harm, delight -, Tho' sentence they from men receive, The Lord, their cause, will judge aright. 08 34 Wait on the Lord! From evil fly f So shall his arm thy head uphold ; When sinners are cut off, and die, Thou shalt, the hand of God, behold* 35 I have survey'd, in mighty power, The Wicked spread their triumphs wide} And, like the verdant Bay-tree, tower, O'er all around, in pomp and pride. 36 But soon, like clouds, they pass'd away, With every vam and lofty thought j Their' s was the triumph of a day, When all their glory came to nought. 37 Behold the perfect man, and mark, How he concludes, his mortal race, When every earthly view is dark, And death draws near, with solemn pace. Of Heaven's eternal promise sure, Patient, he waits his souPs release j And as his life was calm and pure, So when he dies, his end is peace! May we so pass our time below, And on our Maker's strength depend 5 That when we leave this world of woe, Our lives may, like the good man, end. 38 But whilst the righteous hail with joy, Death, their deliverer from each care - y The Lord, transgressors shall destroy, Yea, he shall plunge them in despair. 39 But every pure and upright soul, Salvation, from the Lord, shall see ; He is their strength, when troubles roll, And he will still their portion be. 40 The Lord shall save them, in each strait, And every needful want supply : All those who on their Maker wait, Shall find a helper ever nigh. eg PSALM XXXVIII. 1 JLjORD ! in thy wrath, rebuke me not, No more my trembling soul despise 5 Nor in thy fierce displeasure, hot, Chasten the soul that prostrate lies. 2 Thy threat' nings, and my conscious shame, Like arrows, stick into my side : Thy hand is heavy on my frame 5 Where shall I fly, or whither hide ? $ No soundness in my flesh appears, Nought can my wounded spirit heal ; With aching bones and flowing tears, The heavy weight of sin I feel. 4 Iniquities have weighed me down, They o'er my head, like billows flow 5 I see my heavenly Father frown ! — Too heavy is my weight of woe ! 5 My body is corrupt with sin, My follies are tormenting chains 5 And ere the morning light begin, I count my sorrows and my pains. 6 My soul is troubled, to the ground, I bend my head, nor comfort know 5 Mine is a sore and deadly wound, Through all the day I mourning go. 7 I am estrang'd from joy and ease, No soundness, in my flesh I feel - 7 My loins are filled with disease, — Loathsome, which none can bear, or heal. 8 Feeble, and broken is my frame, Life's beauteous morning now is o'er ! By reason of my guilt and shame With deep disquietude, I roar. Q Thou dost my wounded spirit see, Altho' unnoticed, thou art near} All my desires are known to thee, And thou my every groan dost hear. 10 My vanquished strength now prostrate lies, No joys, my sorrowing heart, relieve : The very light of these mine eyes, Is vanish' d, like the cloud of eve. 1 1 My friends, that, in prosperity, Lent, to my plaints, the willing ear 5 Now stand aloof, or, from me flee, My kinsmen e'en far off appear. 12 They also that my life desire, And, plant themselves in dread array, All day, against my peace conspire, And things of mischief, falsely, say. 13 As tho' I heard not, or forgot, I bowed, to the earth, my head; As a dumb man, I opened not My mouth, to all they proudly said. 14 Then, to the scoffing crowd, around, My sorrowing soul was set at nought 5 I seem'd like one who could not wound With the reproof, which wisdow taught. 1 5 For I, from earthly scenes withdrew, 4 My soul was raised 'hove mortal care : Mid all my anguish, well I knew That thou, O God, didst hear my prayer. 16 I said, O Lord, regard my voice, From. me, no more, thy presence hide - 7 Lest my inveterate foes rejoice, When they behold my footsteps slide* 1 7 My stedfast heart begins to faint, Perpetual sorrow weighs me down ; O Lord, attend to my complaint, Lest floods of care my spirit drown. 18 Let now the dawn of hope begin ! Let me once more, thy favour see t Now am 1 sony for my sin, I mourn my past iniquity. 19 But still my enemies are strong, To catch my heedless steps they wait 5 The men, who seek to do me wrong, Are multiplied, and fierce with hate, 20 Because I seek the upright way, Sinners, in wrath, against me rose ; Whilst those, who, ill, for good, repay, Are now become my bitterest foes. 21 Forsake rne not, O Lord, Most High ! Thou we'rt my hope, in seasons past ; Be not far from me when I cry ; On thee my every care I cast. 22 Make haste to help me ! Let me see, Thy goodness, whilst I sing thy praise ) My strength and my salvation, be, Through the brief remnant of my days. PSALM XXXIX, 1 -A.S short and evil are my days, And life will soon be o'er ; I will take heed unto my ways, That I may sin no more. 2 Silence, I, ever, will maintain, To speech, I'll bid adieu -, And tho', from good, I may refrain, I shall from evil too. 3 As thus I spake, I look'd around, I felt God's threats alarm ; Yet, ceaseless vanities, I found, Had, only, power to charm. n I felt my spirit burn within, Nor, could my sorrow hide ; I saw all nations dead in sin, When, thus, aloud, I cried : 4, 5 O Lord, my everlasting friend ! My hours, fast fleeting be : — Make me to know my latter end ! Teach me to trust in thee ! 5 May I behold, with fervent grief, How few their Maker praise > And may I see, how very brief, The measure of my days. Tho 1 men, in all their pride arise, And pomp and power maintain $ They are as nothing in thine eyes, And altogether vain. Like a hand's-breadth, my days appear, My moments swiftly flee 3 Man, at his best estate, while here, Is nought but vanity. We bustle for awhile and die, Death bears us down the stream ; We fade, before the evening sky, Our life is but a dream ! 6 Surely we walk mid shades and snares, We foolish schemes pursue -, And feel, too oft, earth's little cares, Our better selves subdue. We toil, to gain each idle gem, Which here and there hath shone ; Not knowing who shall gather them, When we are dead and gone ! 7 What wait I for ? Yet, Lord ! thy will I ever would obey : My hope is in thy mercy still, Thy promise is my stay. ;3- £ From my transgressions, rescue me, Break Satan's heavy chain ; Nor let the foolish, in me, see, Cause of reproach, again. 9 Mid sorrow, I forbore to cry, I bow'd to thy command ; I open'd not my mouth, for I, .beheld my father's hand. 10 Great is my grief, and deep my woe, With groans I pass the day; I am consumed by thy blow, take the stroke away. 1 1 When thou rebukest, in thy wrath, For sins, that countless be ; Our beauty fades before the moth!— Man is but vanity. 12, 13 Life, like a flower, will fade anon ; 1 am a Stranger here, A sojourner, fast passing on, As all my fathers were ! Whilst, as a Traveller, thus I roam, May this support my breast — The hope of an abiding home., In Heaven, that world of rest. Let those the things of time desire, Who hence would never go , But I, to nobler joys, aspire, Than any found below. Almighty Father ! may mine eye, In thee its comfort find ; For thou alone canst satisfy, My vast capacious mind. n PSALM XL, 1 I WAITED, patient, on the Lord,, And he inclined his ear ; I trusted in his holy word, And learn d his name to fear. 2 He brought me from the horrid pit, And from the miry clay \ Upon a rock he made me sit, And him will I obey. 3 New songs I sing, new days I see, My place is fair and wide \ Many, when they reflect on me, Shall in the Lord confide. 4 Bless'd is the man, and bless'd his lot, . Who on the Lord relies -, — Whose heart, the proud, respecteth not, Not such as turn to lies. 5 O Lord, my God, thy works are great, And wonderful thy ways ; All living things didst thou create, And still they speak thy praise. This earth, on which thy servants dwell, Proclaims thy watchful care : If I, thy mercies, sought to tell, I could not half declare. 6 Offerings, and sacrifice are vain, To thine all-piercing eyes ; — Offerings, whilst sin within us reign, Thou dost, O Lord, despise. 7 I said, to thee, alone, I look ! To thee, my God, I flee ! — Within the Volume of thy Book, Thou hast declared of me. 8 My soul delights to do thy will, Thy law is in my heart ; O let me see thy goodness still, And still thy grace impart. Q I have thy righteousness maintain'd, Mid the wide world, alone ; Nor have I e'er my lips refrain'd ; And this to thee is known. 10 I have not hid thy righteousness, Like precious gems and gold, But have declared thy faithfulness, And of thy goodness told. 11 To me, thy mercies, Lord, supply, As needed, day by day ; And let thy truth continually, Preserve me in my way. 12 Iniquities have bent me low, All day, I make my moan ; My fainting heart is fill'd with woe, My sins are countless grown. 13 Thee do I love, and thee adore, O Lord, my spirit heal ; Make haste to help me, and once more, Thy smiling face reveal. 14 Sinners shall soon confounded be, Who seek my soul to slay ; They shall be driven back, and see Confusion and dismay. 15 They shall be desolate, and stand, A monument, to those, Who, in their madness, thro' the land, Would Gods high arm oppose. 16 Let all who seek thy face, rejoice, Thou art their God and Guide, And shout, with one united voice, — 44 The Lord be magnified." 76 1/ Fain would my heart thy law fulfil, But, feebleness is mine, Yet thou dost think upon me still, — O make me wholly thine! PSALM XLI. 1 Jd)LESS'D is- the man who heeds the Poor, And mourns the sorrows they endure 5 When trouble overwhelms his mind, He, from the Lord, support shall find. 2 God will uphold him, in his way, And guide his steps to endless day 5 Tho' foes, in all their wrath, assail, His enemies shall not prevail. 3 The Lord shall give his soul content, When on the bed of languishment -, Mid sickness, he shall taste that love, Which flows from mercy's fount above, The Lord is merciful and kind, He loves the broken heart to bind - 3 He listens to the feeble cry, Of lonely want and misery. By all the mercies he bestows, Upon his friends, upon his foes j He bids us, our protection give, And feel alike for all that live. Whilst those both cross and loss endure, Who have no pity for the Poor j The liberal man, shall have his store, Increased ten-fold more and more. In trouble, God shall be his friend, His joys shall never have an end 5 Of that bless'd spirit he partakes, Which Heaven a glorious mansion makes. 77 The Lord shall smooth his mortal way, The Lord shall bless him night and day 5 And when the hour of death draws near, The Lord his sinking soul shall cheer. View then the Poor with pitying eye, And God shall all your wants supply 5 For what you give, on Heaven's high^svord \ Is only lent unto the Lord. 4 Be merciful, O Lord, I said, For clouds and darkness round me spread j My sins are all, with crimson, dyed, And well might' st thou thy presence hide. 5 My enemies, with pride inquire, — i( When shall we see his name expire ; " When shall his corse be borne away, " And death and worms receive their prey." 6 If, for a moment, him, I see, He speaketh nought but vanity ; At home he gathereth sin and fraud, And spreads it, when he goes abroad. 7 All they that hate me, crouded stand, I see them, whispering, raise their hand ; Whilst enmity their bosoms fill, They every hour devise me ill. 8 <( Disease," they say, u hath bent him low, " It cleaveth fast where'er he go : (< His name and reign shall soon be o'er; " He sinketh, to arise no more." i) Yea, e'en mine own familiar friend, On whom, with confidence, I lean'd; Who ate my bread, who knew my woes # Even him I count amongst my foes. 10 Yet be thou, merciful, O Lord! Let me thy goodness still record; O raise me up, and let me see, Good days, succeed to misery. 78 U By this I know, tho' discord sound, That I, with thee, have favour found } My enemies no triumph know, Tho' they conspire to lay me low. 12 In thee alone, my strength, I find, E'en in the good which I designed j Thou settest me before thy face, And makest me to taste thy grace. 13 Blest be the God, whom we adore ! Blest be the Lord, for evermore ! From everlasting to the same, Would we exalt Jehovah's name ! PSALM XLIL .AS the Heart pants, mid Summer's beam, For the cool brook's refreshing stream; So do I long thy courts to see, So pants my Soul, O God, for thee. when shall Heaven be my abode ? 1 thirst to see the Living God ; When shall I run life's toilsome race ? And when appear before thy face ? My tears have been my meat by day, My eyes, with sorrow, melt away -, Whilst Sinners, thus, with pride, declare, u But gifts will I disdain, whilst thou, u To other Gods dost daily bow. 94 10 " My bounty, all creations fills j ' ' The cattle on a thousand hills €€ Belong to me $ the beasts of prey <( Are mine, and my commands obey. 11 (e My hands, the fowl, with plumage, drest, " That on the mountain's summit rest , " The fish, that mid the waters shine, — " The beasts, that range the held, are mine. 12 " If I were hungry, should I name, " My wants to thee, and succour claim ? " The earth is mine, the air, the sea,