'«^ V THE PBOPERTY OF 9 Friends' Scfipture School bociation, 9 (J LOAJVED TO ..^^^ V- ^ i Division SdiS u Q Q - >- Z o: < • (0 z IL z i UI H u > m Z iL 0) < Q I < oe J >• >• < y m < 0) 5 J q: Q q: q u u U m i I z J u H sj < u I z UI I It iZ 3 a H z li. (A 5 3 > u m o z K 0. ;\1^ 5 ^ \ ^ ^- :^ui OF PHI.Sg^ H Y mr * "^ FOR FIRST-DAY SCHOOLS. " Come, let us join, our Lord to praise, Whose mercy knows no end ; . To Him our cheerful voices raise, Our Father and our Friend." NEW YORK: PUBLISHED BY FRIENDS" SCRIPTURE SCHOOL ASSOCIATION. 1863. INDEX OF FIRST LINES. A charge to keep I have hymn no. 69 A giddy lamb one afternoon Kfl All around thee fair with flowers 42 All hail the power of Jesus' name 144 Amazing grace, how sweet the sound '. 5 And was my Saviour once a child 73 A poor way-faring man of grief 120 Around the throne of God in heaven 95 Behold a stranger at the door 1.32 Behold the Throne of grace 57 Be kind to each other 119 Beyond this life of hopes and fears 137 Breast the wave Christian 55 Brightest and best of the sons of the morning 15 Children do you love each other . . 83 Children listen to the Lord 58 Come children hail the Prince of Peace 45 Come ye children and adore Him 17 Count not the days that have idly flown 19 Deal gently with the erring one 117 Delay not, delay not, sinner draw near 40 1=^ (v) yi INDEX OF Fill ST LINES. Earth -svitli her ten thout^aud liowers 3G Ere the morning's busj- ray 7 Ever would I fain he reading SG Father I know that all my life 1 Father whatever of earthly bliss 52 For His dear sake who said 25 From all that dwell below the skies 48 From every stormy wind that blows 49 Gentle Jesus, meek and mild 90 Gently Lord, O gently lead us 72 Glory to Thee, my God this night 27 God alone can teach His children 8 God is in heaven, can He hear 76 God is love, His mercy brightens 46 God moves in a mysterious way 53 God of mercy, God of love 34 Go when the morning shineth 3 Great God and wilt Thou condescend 105 Great Shepherd of the sheep SI Guide me O Thou great Jehovah 28 Hark ! ye neighbors and hear me tell 139 Have pity on them for their life 113 He caused the deaf to hear His voice 108 Holy Bible, book divine 14 Holy, holy, holy Lord 24 How doth the little busy bee 98 How loving is Jesus who came from the sky 32 How sweet is the Sabbath, the morning of rest 47 How sweet the name of Jesus soimds 43 INDEX OF F I R ST LINES. Vll I hear thee speak of the better land 1-23 I knew a sickly little child. 109 I'm hnt a traveller here 9 In Genesis the world was made by God's creative hand. . . 122 In the Christian's home in glory 71 In the silent midnight watches 121 In the tempest of life when the wave and the gale 115 In Thy great name O Lord we come 142 Into her chamber went 106 I often say my prayers 6S I saw a little blade of grass 138 It is good when we lay on the pillow our head 6 I think when I read that sweet story of old 78 I want to be an angel 93 I want to be like Jesns 97 [ was a wandering sheep 127 Jesus and shall it ever be 60 Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour 96 Jesus I my cross have taken 61 Jesus Saviour of my soul : 31 Jesus see a tender child 75 Jesus, tender Shepherd hear me 87 Jesns the very thought of Thee 38 Just as I am without one plea 41 Kind words can never die . Launch thy bark, mariner pji Let love through all my actions run 104 Let us love one another, not long may we stay 1.34 Little drops of water 90 Little School-mates can you tell S2 Viii INDEX OF FIRST LINES. Little travellers Zionward 85 Lord dismiss us with Thy blessing : 141 Lord I would own Thy tender care 99 Xord teach a little child to pray 79 lly God, my Father whilst I stray 62 Nearer my God to Thee 44 Never stand in idleness 125 Now I lay me down to sleep 140 O ! bles>5 the Lord my soul 23 O ! heaven is nearer than mortals think 11 Oh ! Father bless a little child. . '. 74 Oh ! stay not thy han^s when the winter winds rude 1.% Oh ! Thou the contrite sinners friend 51 Oh ! turn that little foot aside K35 One by one the sands are liowing 26 Once more before we part 14.3 One sweetly solemn thought 37 One sweet flower has drooped and faded 1.31 One there is above all others IS O ! what can little hands do 101 Pilgrim on the road to glory 67 Poor and needy though I be 94 Praise God from whom all blessings flow 145 Prayer is the soul's sincere desire 2 Remember thy Creator 56 Rock of Agee cleft for me 30 INDEX OF FIRST LINES. IX Saviour like a Shepherd lead us 59 Speak gently, it is better far 118 Suppose the little cowslip 124 Tell me Bot in mournful numbers 39 The culling waves with awful roar 114 The Lord is my Shepherd no want shall I know 22 There is a happy land 77 There is a land of pure delight 12 There's not a tint that paints the rose 130 They who seek the throne of grace 4 Though glorious O God must Thy temple have been 129 Though troubles assail and dangers affright 20 The Sabbath sun was setting slow 35 Thou shalt have no more Gods but Me 103 Thy neighbor ! it is he whom thou 116 'T is a point I long to know 16 'T is not in temples made with hands 126 "T is sweet to work for Jesus 110 To do to others as I would 100 True faith producing love 54 Up and doing little Christian 91 We were crowded in the cabin 112 We speak of the realms of the blest 10 We'll not give up the Bible 13 When all Thy mercies, oh my God 70 Whene'er the angry passions rise 29 When gathering clouds around I view 65 'S^^len I look up to yonder sky 102 When Jesus left His heavenly home 63 When little Samuel woke 80 X INDEX OF F 1 11 S T LINES. When marshalled on the mighty plain CG When through the torn sail the tempest is streaming 21 When we cannot see our way 50 Who are sowing, who are sowing 84 Who showeth tlie little ant the way 88 Why thus longing thus forever sighing 128 Will you come with me my pretty one Ill Yea, fear not, fear not little ones 89 Zion the marvellous story be telling 64 gart |ir.$t CHIIiDREX'S HYMNS FATHER ! I know that all my life Is portioned out for me ; And the changes that are sm-e to come, I do not fear to see ; But I ask Thee for a present mind, Intent on pleasing Thee. I ask Thee for a thankful love, Through constant watching wise, To meetlhe glad with joyfursmiles, And to wipe the weeping eyes, And a heart at leisure from itself To soothe and sympathise. I would not have the restless will That hurries to and fro, Seeking for some great thing to do, Or secret thing to know ; I would be dealt with as a child And guided where to go. 12 children's hymns. Wherever in the world I am, In whatsoe'er estate ; I have a fellowship with hearts, To keep and cultivate ; And a work of holy love to do, For the Lord on whom I wait. I ask Thee for the daily strength To none that ask, denied, And a mind to blend with outward life, While keeping at Thy side ; Content to fill a little space, If Thou be glorified. And if some things I do not ask, In my cup of blessing be, I would have niv spirit filled the more. With gratefuriove to Thee; More careful than to serve Thee much. To please Thee perfectly. There are briers besetting every path. That call for patient care ; There is a crook in every lot, And a need for earnest prayer ; But a lowly heart that loans on Thee, Is happy everywhere. In a service that Thy love appoints There are no bonds for me, For my secret heart is taught the truth That makes Thy children " free." And a life of self-renouncing love Is a life of liberty. CHILDREK'S HYilN'S. 13 y PRAYER is the soul's sincere desire, Uttered or unexpressed, The motion of a hidden fire, That trembles in the breast. Prayer is the burden of a sigh, The falling of a tear. The upward glancing of an eye, When none but God is near. Prayer is the simplest form of speech, That infant lips can tiy ; Prayer, the sublimest strains that reach The Majesty on high. Prayer is the Christian's vital breath, The Christian's native air, His watchword in the hour of death, He enters Heaven with prayer. Prayer is the contrite sinner's voice, RetuiTiing from his ways, "While angels in their songs rejoice, And say, " Behold ! he prays." In prayer, on earth the saints are one, In word, in deed, in mind, When with the Father and the Son Sweet fellowship they find. 14 CIIIL,DKE>i's HYMNS. O Thou, by whom wq come to God, The Life, the Truth, the Way, The path of prayer Thyself hast trod ; Lord, teach us how to pray. 3 GO when the morning shiueth, Go when the moon is bright. Go when the eve declineth, Go in the hush of night ; Go with pure mind and feeling, Fling earthly thought away, And in thy closet kneeling Do thou in secret pray. Remember all who love thee. All who are loved by thee, Pray too for those who hate thee, If any such there be ; Then for thyself in meekness A blessing humbly claim, And blend with each petition Thy great Redeemer's name. Or if 'tis e'er denied thee In solitude to pray, Should holy thoughts come o'er thee When friends are round thy way, E 'en then the silent breathing Thy spirit lifts above. Will reach Ilis throne of glory Where dwells eternal love children's hymns. 15 Oh not a joy or blessing With this can we compare, The gi'ace our Father gives us To pour our souls in prayer. Whene 'er thou art in sadness Before His footstool fall, Eemembcr too in gladness His love who gave thee all. THEY who seek the throne of grace, Find that throne in every place ; If we live a life of prayer, God is present eveiywhere. In our sickness or our health. In our want or in our wealth ; If we look to God in prayer, God is present everywhere. When our earthly comforts fail, When the foes of life prevail, 'Tis the time for earnest prayer, God is present everywhere. Then, my soul, in eveiy strait, To thy Father come'and wait ; He will answer every prayer ; God is prcsont ever^'v.ii'ere. k 16 CHLLDRE^J'S HYMXe. x^MAZING grace ! how sM'eet the sound That saved a wretch like me ! I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind, but now I see. 'Twas gi'ace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears relieved ; How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed ! Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come ; 'Tis grace that brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home. And when this flesh and heart shall fail, And mortal life shall cease, I shall possess, within the veil, A life of joy and peace. 6 IT is good when we lay on the pillow our head, And the silence of night all around us is spread. To reflect on the deeds we have done in the day, Nor allow it to pass v.ithout profit away. children's HYinSTS. 17 A day — what a trifle — and yet the amount, Of the days we have passed, fomis an awful account ; And the time may arrive, when the world we would give, Were it om-s, might we have but another to live. In whose service have we, through the day been em- ployed, And what are the pleasures we mostly enjoyed ? Our desires and our wishes, to what did they tend — To the world we are in, or the world without end ? Hath the sense of His presence encompassed us round, "Without whom not a sparrow can fall to the ground ? Have our hearts turned to Him with devotion most true. Or been occupied only by things that we view ? Have we often reflected how soon we must go, To the mansions of bliss, or the regions of woe ? Have we felt unto God a repentance sincere. And in faith to the Saviour of sinners drawn near ? Let us thus, with oui-selves, solemn conference hold, Ere sleep's silken mantle our senses enfold ; And forgiveness implore for the sins of the day, Nor allow them to pass uni-fepented away. 7 ERE the morning's busy ray Call you to your work away ; Ere the silent evening close Your wearied eyes in sweet repose ; To lift your heart and voice in prayer Be j^our first and latest care. 2* IS c^ILD^vE^''s iiYiiNS. -He to whom the prayer is due, From heaven, His'throne, shall smile on you ; Angels sent by Him shall tend, Your daily labor to befriend, And theu' nightly vigils keep, To guard you in the horn- of sleep. 8 GOD alone can teach His children By His Spirit, how to pray. Knows our wants and gives the knowledge What to ask and what to say. When a child wants food and raiment. Why not ask his parents dear ? Ask in faith then — God 's our Father, He's at hand and He will hear. Prayer's an easy, simple duty, ' Tis the language of the soul ; Grace demands it, grace receives it, Grace must reign above the whole. Every heart should be a temple, God should dwell our hearts within ; Every day should be a Sabbath, Eveiy hour redeemed from sin. Every place a place of worship, Eveiy time a time of prayer. Every sigh should rise to heaven, Every wish should centre there. childken's hymns. 19 Heartfelt sighs and heaven-bom wishes, Or the poor uplifted eye ; These are prayers that God will answer, They ascend His throne on high. Spirit of prayer ! be ihou the portion Of all those who wait on Thee, Help us ! shield us ! lead us ! guide us ! Thine the praise, the glorj^ be ! 9 I'M but a traveller here, Heaven is my home ; Earth is a desert drear. Heaven is my home. Dangers and sorrows stand Round me on every hand. Heaven is my Father land. Heaven is my home. What though the tempest rage, Heaven is my home. Short is my pilgrimage, Heaven is my home. Time's cold and wintry blast Soon will be overpast, I shall reach home at last, Heaven is my home. CHILDIIEN S HYMNS, What though the world allure, Heaven is my home. Still is the promise sure, Heaven is my home. Steadfast by faith I see Him who on Calvary Purchased this bliss for me, Heaven is my home. Peace, Oh my troubled soul, Heaven is my home. I soon shall reach the goal, Heaven is my home. Svriftly the race I'll run, Yield up my crown to none. Forward, the prize is won, Heaven is my home. There at my Saviour's side. Heaven is my home, I shall be glorified. Heaven is my home. There are the good and blest. Those I love most and best. There too I soon shall rest. Heaven is my home. 10 WE speak of the realms of the blest; That country so bright and so fair. And oft are its glories confest. But what must it be to be there ! children's hymns. 21 We speak of its pathways of gold, Its walls deck'd with jewels so rare, Its wonders and pleasures untold ; But what must it be to be there ! We speak of its freedom from sin, From sorrow, temptation, and care, From trials without and within ; But what must it be to be there ! We speak of its ser^dce of love ; The robes which the glorified wear ; The church of the first-born above ; But what must it be to be there ! Do thou, Lord, midst pleasure and woe, Still for heaven our spirits prepare ; And shortly we also shall know And feel what it is to be there. 11 OH Heaven is nearer than mortals think When they gaze with trembling dread. On the misty future that stretches on To the silent home of tiie dead. 'Tis no lone isle on a boundless main, No brilliant but distant shore, Where the lored ones who have passed away Must go, to return no more. 22 children's iiYAnss. Oh, Heaven is near, but the heavy veil Of mortality blinds the eye, That we see not clearly the angel band On the shores of Eternity. Yet oft in the hour of holy thought To the thirsty soul is given, The power to look thro' the mists of earth To the glorious scenes' of heaven. Then very near seem its pearly gates, And sweetly its harpings fall, Till the soul is weary to soar away, And longs for the angel call. Yes loiow, when the silver cord is loosed, And the veil is rent away, Not long and dark will the passage be To the realms of endless day. The eyes that shut in the dying hour Will open the next in bliss, The welcome will sound in the heavenly home Ere the farewell is hushed in this. We shall go fi-om the clasp of mourning Mends To the arms of the loved and blest, And the smiling faces will greet us there That on earth we valued best. 12 THERE is a land of pure delight, Where saints immortal reign ; Infinite day exckides the night. And pleasures banish pain. childken's hymns. 23 There everlasting spring abides, And never withering flowers : Death, like a narrow sea, divides This heavenly land from ours. Sweet fields beyond the swelling flood Stand dress'd in living green ; So to the Jews old Canaan stood, While Jordan roU'd between. Could we but climb where Moses stood, And view the landscape o'er, Kot Jordan's stream nor death's cold flood Should fright us from the shore. 13 WE' LL not give up the Bible, God's holy Book of truth ; The blessed staff of hoary age, The guide of early youth, The sun that sheds a glorious light O'er every dreary road, The voice that speaks a Saviour's love, And calls us home to God. We'll not give up the Bible, For pleasure nor for pain ; We' 11 buy the truth and sell it not. For all that we might gain : Though man shouldlry to take our prize By guile or cruel might. We' 11 suffer all that man could do, And God defend the right. ,24 children's hymns. "We'll not give up the Bible, But spread it far and wide, Until its saving voice be heard Beyond the rolling tide : Till all sliall loiow its gracious power, And with one voice and heart, Eesolve that from God's written word We'll never, never part ! 14 HOLY Bible ! book divine ! Precious treasure ! thou art mine ! 3Iine to tell me whence I came ; ]Mine to teach me what I am. Mine to chide me when I rove ; Mine, to show a Saviour's love ; Mine art thou to guide my feet ; Mine, to judge, condemn, acquit. Mine, to comfort in distress, K the Holy Spirit bless ; Mine, to show by living faith, Man can triumph over death. Mine, to tell of joys to come And the rebel sinner's doom : O thou precious book divine ! Precious treasai*e ! thou art mine I ;- childre:n's HY:Nms. 25 15 BRIGHTEST and best of the sons of the morning, Dawn on our darkness and lend us thine aid ! Star of the east, the horison adorning, Guide where our infant Redeemer is laid. Cold on His cradle the dew-drops are shining. Low lies His bed with the beasts of the stall, Angels adore Him, in slumber reclining. Maker, and Monarch, and Saviour of all ! Say, shall we yield Him in costly devotion, Odors of Edom, and offerings divine ? Gems of the mountain, and pearls of the ocean ; Myrrh from the forest and gold fi-om the mine ? Vainly we offer each ample oblation ; Vainly with gold would His favors secure : Richer by far is the heart's adoration ; Dearer to God are the prayers of the poor. Brightest and best of the sons of the morning, Dawn on our darkness and lend us thine aid ! Star of the east, the horison adorning. Guide where our infant Redeemer is laid. 16 'TIS a point I long to know, Oft it causes anxious thought ; Do I love the Lord or no ? Am I His, or am I not ? 3 CniLDTlEN S HYilNS.^ Could my heart so hard remain, Prayer a task and burden prove, Eveiy trifle give me pain, If I knew a Saviours love ? When I turn my eyes within. All is dark, and vain and wild, Ffll'd with unbelief and sin. Can I deem myself a child ? Lord, decide the doubtful case, Thou who art thy people's sun Shine upon thy work of grace, If it be indeed besiun. Let me love thee more and more, If I love at all, I pray ; If I have not loved before. Help me to begin to-day. 17 TEACHEK8. COME ye children and adore Him, * Lord of all He reigns above. Come and worship now before Him, He hath call'd you by his love ; He will gi'ant you every blessing. Of His all-abounding grace. Come with humble hearts expressing, All your gratitude and praise. children's hymns. S7 CHILDREN. On this holy day of gladness We will join in praises meet, Every bosom free from sadness, All with happiness replete ; Oh, to feel the love of Jesus, Oh, to know that from above Still our heavenly Father sees us, With an eye of tender love. TEACHERS. Dearest children, now adore Him, Swell aloud the joyful strain. Let the nations bow before Him, Echo back the notes again ; While He will accept the praises, E'en from every heart and tongue. Those to Him an infant raises. Still are sweetest of the song. CHILDREN. Lord of all, our hearts oblation Now ascends to Thee alone. We would come with all the nation, Now to worship at the throne. Teachers, will you join the chorus. Join in hymning forth his praise, Who for our redemption shows us All the riches of his ffrace ? 2^ children's hymns, teachers and children. Praise to Thee, O Lord, for ever, Gladly now vce all unite. Praise to Thee, O God, the giver, Blessed Lord of life and light. Ransom'd nation, spread the story, Rescued people, ne'er give o'er. All His grace and all His glory. Oh, proclaim for evermore. 18 ONE there is above all others, Well deserves the name of Friend, His is love beyond a brother's, Costly, free, and knows no end. "Which of all onr friends, to save us, Could or would have shed His blood, But this Saviour died to have us Reconciled in Him to God. When He lived on earth abased. Friend of sinners was His name, Now, above all glory raised. He rejoices in the same. Oh, for grace our hearts to soften, Teach us. Lord, at length to love. We, alas, forget too often,.. What a Friend we have al>ove. CHILDREN S HY.M^S. 19 COUNT not the days that have idly flown, The years that were vainly spent, Nor speak of the hours thou must blush to own, "When thy spmt stands before the thi'one, To account for the talents lent. But number the hours redeemed from sin, The moments employed for heaven ; few and evil thy days have been, Thy life, a toilsome, worthless scene. For a nobler purpose given. Will the shade go back on thy dial plate ? Will the sun stand still on his way ? Both hasten on ; and thy spmt's fate Rests on the points of life's little date; Then live, while 'tis called to-day. Life's waning hours, like the Sibyl's page. As they lessen, in value rise ; O rouse thee, and live ! nor deem that man's age Stands in the length of his pilgrimage. But in the days that are truly wise. 20 THOUGH troubles assail and dangers affright. Though friends should all fail, and foes all unite ; Yet one thing secures us, — whatever betide, The Scripture assures us, " The Lord will provide'* 3* 30' children's hymns. The birds without barn or store-house are fed — From them let us learn to trust for our bread, His saints, what is fitting, shall ne'er be denied, So long as ' tis written, " The Lord will proyide." We may, like the ships, by tempests be tossed On perilous deeps, but cannot be lost ; Though Satan enrages the Mind and the tide, This promise engages, the Lord will provide. His call we obey, like Abrah'm of old. Not knowing our way, but faith makes us bold ; For though we are strangers, we have a good guide, And trust, in all dangers, the Lord will provide. "When Satan appears to stop up our path, And fill us with fears, we triumph by faith ; — He cannot take from us, though oft he has tried, This heart-cheering promise, the Lord will provide. When life sinks apace, and death is in view. This word of his grace will carry us through ; No fearing or doubting with Christ on our side. We hope to die trusting the Lord will provide. 21 WHEN tlu'ough the torn sail the wild tempest is streaming. When o'er the dark wave the red lightning is gleaming, Nor hope lends a ray, the poor sailors to cherish Tliey fly to their Master, " Save, Lord, or we perish." CHILDEE^'S HTML'S. 31 O Jesus, once rocked on the breast of the billow, Aroused b^ the shriek of despair from Thy pillow, Now seated in glory, the poor sinner cherish. Who cries in his anguish, "Save, Lord, or we perish." Ajdd, oh, when the whirlwind of passion is raging, When sin in our heart its wild warfare is waging, Then send down Thy grace, Thy redeemed to cherish, Rebuke the destroyer, " Save, Lord, or we perish." 22 The Lord is my Shepherd, no want shall I know ; I feed in good pastures, safe folded to rest ; He leadeth my soul where the still waters flow, Restores me when wandering, redeems when oppressed. Through the valley and shadow of death tho' I stray, Since Thou art my Guardian, no evil I fear. Thy rod shall defend me. Thy staff be my stay ; No harm can befall with my Comforter near. In the midst of afflictioi; my table is spread ; With blessings unmeasured, my cup runneth o'er ; With perfume and oil Thou anointest my head ; Oh, what shall I ask of Thy Providence more. 82 children's iroiNS. Let goodness and mercy, my bountiful God ! Still follow my steps till I meet Thee above ; I seek — by the path, which my forefathers trod, Through the land of their sojourn — Thy kingdom of love. 23 Oh bless the Lord, my soul. His grace to thee proclaim, And all tliat is within me join, To bless His holy name. Oh bless the Lord, my soul, His mercies bear in mind, Forget not all his benefits. The Lord to thee is kind. He will not always chide, He will with patience wait. His wrath is ever slow to rise, And ready to abate. He pardons all thy sins, Prolongs thy feeble breath, He healeth thy infirmities, And ransoms thee from death. Then bless His holy name, "Whose grace has made thee whole, Whose loving kindness crowns thy days, Oh, bless the Lord, my soul. CHILDREN S HYMZsS. 24 HOLY, holy, holy, Lord, In the highest heavens adored, Author of all nature's frame : Father, hallowed be Thy name ! Though estranged from Thee in heart, Doubtless Thou our Father art : From Thy hand our spirits came : Father, hallowed be Thy name. Nor by nature's tie alone Thou art as our Father known : Nearer now in Christ our claim : Father, hallowed be Thy name. Born anew, oh, may we feci Filial love, the Spirit's seal ; Cleansed from guilt, redeemed from shame, Father, hallowed be Thy name. "Whether then in want or wealth, Joy or sorrow, pain or health. Still our prayer shall be the same Father, hallowed be Thv name. 34 childiie:s s hymns. 25 FOR His dear sake who said '* Let children come to me," My Father, I would tread The path that leads to Thee ! Lord ! teach me day by day ; For, if by Thee untaught, I know not how to pray, Or praise Thee as I ought ! Not only to the field Of waving, golden grain, The skies are bid to yield The sunbeams and the rain, But to the frailest flower That droops upon the sod ; So let Thy Spirit's power Descend on me, O God ! Not only do the good And fruitful orchard trees, But e'en the seedling bud, Receive the living breeze ; Thus breathe within my heart, And let Thy Si)irirs breath Its life to me impart, And save my soul from death I From e'en the smallest sin. My Father, set me free, That I may now begin A life of praise to Thee ; children's hymns. r^ 35 wash me white as snow, In my Redeemer's blood,' That all my heart may glow With love to Tliee, O God ! By Thj' own Spirit's light Make me Thy will to know, And by Thy Spirit's miirht Aid me Thy will to do ! Thus, Father, may I tread The path that leads to Thee, For His dear sake who said. " Let children come to me ! " 26 ONE by one the sands are flowiuQ One by one the moments fall : Some are coming, some are going, Do not strive to grasp them all. One by one thy duties wait thee, Let thy whole strength go to each ; Let no future dreams elate thee. Learn thou first what these can teach. One by one, (bright gifts from Heaven,) Joys are sent thee here below : Take them readily when given, Ready too to let them go. 86 children's hymns. eeWnee One by one thy griefs shall mee Do not fear an armed band ; One will fade as others greet thee, Shadows passmg through the land. Do not look at life's long sorrow : See how small each moment's pain God will help thee for to-morrow,- Every day begins again. Every hour that fleets so slowly, Has its task to do or bear ; Luminous the crown, and holy, If thou set each gem with care. Do not linger with regretting, Or with parting hours despond ! Nor, thy daily toil forgetting, Look too eagerly beyond . Hours are goMen links, God 's token, Reaching Heaven ; but one by one Take them lest the chain be broken Ere thy pilgrimage be done. 27 GLORY to Thee, my God, this night, For all the blessings' of the light, Keep me, keep me, King of kings, Under Thine own Almighty wings. |f children's HY3iOS. 37 Forgive me, Lord, for Thy dear Son, The ills that I this day have done : That with the world, myself, and Thee, I, ere I sleep, at peace may be. Teach me to live, that I may dread The grave as little as my bed ; Teach me to die, that so I may Triumpliing rise at the last day. O may my soul on Thee repose. And with sweet sleep mine eyelids close ; Sleep, that may me more vigorous make To sei-ve my God, when I awake. When in the night I sleepless lie. My soul with heavenly thoughts supply ; Let no ill dreams disturb my rest, No powers of darkness me molest. O when shall I, in endless day. For ever chase dark sleep away. And hymns divine with angels sing. Glory to thee, eternal KingT Praise God, from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him, all creatures here below : Praise Him above, angelic host ; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost : 4 38 CKILDKE^'S HYMNS. ^ 28 GUIDE me, Thou great Jehovah, Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand. Open now the crystal fountains Whence the living waters flow ; Let the fiery, cloudy pillar, Lead me all my journey through. Feed me with tlie heavenly manna, In this barren wilderness ; Be my sword, and shield, and banner ; Be the Lord my righteousness. When I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside ; Death of death, and hell's destruction, Land me safe on Canaan's side. 29 WHEISTE'ER the angry passions rise, And tempt our thoughts or tongues to strife, To Jesus let us lift our eyes. Bright Pattern of the Christian life. * children's HYilNS. 39 O how benevolent and kind , How mild, how ready to forgive : Be this the temper of our mind, And these the rules by which we live. To do His heavenly Father's will "Was His employment and delight ; Humility and holy zeal Shone thi'ough His life divinely bright. Dispensing good wheree'r He came^ The labors of His life were love ; Then, if we bear the Saviour's name, By His example let us move. But, ah, how blind, how weak we are, How frail, how apt to turn aside; Lord, we depend upon Thy care ; We ask Thy Spirit for our guide. Thy fair example may we trace, To teach us what we ought to be ; Make us, by Thy transforming grace, O Saviour, daily more like Thee. K 30 ROCK of Ages, cleft for me. Let me hide'myself in Thee ; Let the water and the blood, From Thy riven side which flow'd, Be of sin the double cure, Save me from its guilt and power. 40 children's HYjr^s. Should my tears for ever flow. Should my zeal no languor know, This for sin could not atone, 'Thou must save, and Thou alone ; In my hand no price I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling. While I draw this fleeting breath. When mine eyelids close in death, When I rise tb worlds unknown, And behold Thee on Thy throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself m Thee. 31 JESUS, Saviour of mj^ soul, ' Let me to Thy bosom fly, While the waves of trouble roll, While the tempest still is high Hide me, my Savioui*, hide. Till the storm of life is past ; Safe into the haven guide ; O receive my soul at last. Other refage have I none, Hangs my helpless soul on Thee ; Leave, ah, leave me not alone, Still support and comfort me : children's BTorxs. 41 All my trust on Thee is stay'cT, All my hope from Thee I bring ; Cover my defenceless head With the shadow of Thy wing, 32 HOW loving is Jesus, who came from the sky, In tenderest pity for sinners to die ! His hands and His feet were nail'd to the tree, And all this He suffered for sinners like me. How gladly does Jesus free pardon impart To all who receive Him by faith in their heart ! No evil befalls them, their home is above, And Jesus throws roimd them the arms of His love. How precious is Jesus to all who believe ! And out of His fulness what grace they receive ! When weak He supports them, when erring He guides, And everything needful He kindly provides. Oh give then, to Jesus your earliest days ; They only are blessed, who walk in His ways : In life and in death He will still be their friend ; For those whom He loves. He will love to the end. 33 LAUNCH thy bark, mariner ! Christian, God speed thee ! Let loose the rudder bands — Good angels lead thee ! 4* 43 children's hymns. Set tli}^ sails warily, Tempests will come ; Steer thy course steadily, Christian, steer home ! Look to the weather-bow, Breakers are round thee ; Let fall the plummet now. Shallows may ground thee. Reef in tlie foresail, there ! Hold the helm fast ! So — let the vessel wear — There swept the blast. "What of the night, watchman' What of the night?" " Cloud}^ — all quiet — No land yet— all's right !" Be wakeful, be vigilant — Danger may be At an hour when all seemeth Securest to thee. How gains the leak so fast ? Clear out the hold — Hoist up thy merchandise, Heave out thy gold : — There— let the ingots go — Now the ship rights; Hurra ! the harbor's near — Lo the red lights ! children's hymns. 43 Slacken not sail yet At inlet or island ; Straight for the beacon steer, Straight for the highland ; Crowd all thy canvas on, Cut through the foam — Christian ! cast anchor now — Heaven is thy home ! 34 GOD of mercy, God of love, Hear me from Thy throne above ; Teach me now in truth to pray, Take my sinful heart away. Often I offend Thee, Lord, I neglect Thy written word ; Break Thy -blessed Sabbath day — Take my rebel heart away. When my friends and teachers kind Bid me their instructions mind, Then I talk or idly play — Take my careless heart away. Oft I disobedient grow. And ungrateful temper's show ; Evil things I do and say — Take my ickked heart away. 44 ciiildken's hymns. When of Je-^us' love I'm told, My heart how very dull and cold, Oh '.'to me that love* display — Take my stony heart awa}'. Mould my nature all afresh, Give to me the " heart of flesh," For I know that grace divme Chanaies even hearts like mine. 35 THE Sabbath sun was setting slow, Amidst the clouds of even ; Our Father" breathed a voice below, " Father, who art in heaven ! " Beyond the earth — beyond the cloud — Those infant words were given ; " Our Father," angels sang aloud — " Father, who aft in heaven !" " Thy kingdom come" still from the ground. That child-like voice did pray ; " Thy kingdom come," God's hosts resound, Far up the starry way ! " Thy will be done," with little tongue. That lisping love implores ; " Thy will be done," the angelic throng. Sing from seraphic shores I children's HYilNS. 45 " For ever" still those lips repeat Their closing evening prayer ; " For ever," floats in music sweet — High midst the angels there ! Thine be the glory evermore, From Thee may man ne'er sever; But every Christian land adore Jehovah ! — God ! — for ever ! 36 EARTH, with her ten thousand flowers, Air, with all its beams and showers, All around, and all above, Hath this record, God is love. Sounds among the vales and hills. In the woods, and by the rills, All these songs, beneath, above. Have one burthen, God is love. 4 All the charities that start From the fountains of the heart. These are voices from above, Sweetly whispering, God is love. CinLDREN's HTMNS. Earth, with her ten thousand flowers, Air, with all its beams and showers, All are voices from above, Loudly sounding, God is love. 37 ONE sweetly solemn thought Comes to me o 'er and o'er, I'm nearer my home to-day Than I ever have been before. Kearer my Father's house. Where the many mansions be ; Nearer the great white throne, Nearer the jasper sea. Nearer the bound of life. Where we lay our burdens down ; Nearer leaving the cross. Nearer gaining the crown. But lying darkly between. Winding down through the night. Is the dim and unknown stream That leads me at last to the light, CHILDEE^-'S HYMNS. 47 Saviour, perfect my trust, Strengthen the might of my faith, Let me feel as I would when I stand On the rock of the shore of death : Feel as I would when my feet Are slipping over the brink. For it may be I'm nearer home, Nearer now, than I think. 38 JESUS ! the very thought of Thee "With sweetness fills my breast , But sweeter far Thy face to see. And in Thy presence rest. Nor voice can sing, nor heart can frame, Nor can tlie memory find, A sweeter sound than Thy blest name, O Saviour of mankind ! O hope of every contrite heart, O joy of all the meek. To those who fall, j^ .-•'.' kind Thou art ! How good to those who seek ! But what to those who find ? ah ! this Nor pen nor tongue can show : The love of Jesus what it is, None but His loved ones know. 48 childiien's hymns. Jesus ! our only joy be Thou, As Thou our prize wilt be ; Jesus ! be Thou our Glory now And through eternity. 39 TELL me not in mournful numbers, " Life is but an empty dream !" And the soul is dead that slumbers, And things are not what they seem. Life is real ! Life is earnest ! And the grave is not its goal ; ' Dust thou art, to dust retumest," Was not spoken of the soul. Not enjoyment, and not sorrow, Is our destined end or way ; But to act, that each to-morrow Find us farther than to-day. Art is long, and time is fleeting, And our hearts, though stout and brave. Still, like muffled drums, are beating Funeral marches to the grave. In the world's broad field of battle, In the bivouac of life. Be not like dumb, driven cattle ! Be a hero in the strife. CniLDREX's HYMXS. 49 Trust no Future howe'er pleasant ! Let the dead past bury its dead ! Act — act in tlie living present ! Heart vrithin and Grod o'er head ! Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us, Footprints on the sands of time- Footprints that perhaps another. Sailing o'er life's solemn main, A forlorn and sliipvrrecked brother, Seeing, shall take heart again. Let us, then, be up and doing, With a heart for any fate ; Still achieving, still pursuing, Learn to labor and to wait. 40 Delay not, delay not, sinner, draw near ; The waters of life are now flowing for thee : No price is demanded, the Saviour Ts near, Redemption is purchased, salvation is free. — Delay not, delay not ; why longer abuse The love and compassion of Jesus, thy God ? A fountain is opened ; how canst thou refuse To wash and be cleansed in His pardoning blood. 5 -'50 children's iiy:sixs. Delay not, delay not, O sinner to come, For mercy still lingers, and calls thee to-day ; Her voice is not heard in the vale of the tomb. Her message, unheeded, will soon pass away. Delay not, delay not ; the Spirit of grace, Long grieved and resisted, may take His sad flight ; And leave thee in darkness to finish thy race — To sink in the gloom of eternity's night. Delay not, delay not ; the hour is at hand ; The earth shall dissolve, and the heavens shall fade; The dead, small and great, in the judgment shall stand ; What power then, sinner, shall lend thee its aid ? 41 JUST as I am, without one plea. But that Thy blood was shed for me, And that Thou bid'st me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, 1 come ! Just as I am, and waiting not, To cleanse my soul of one dark blot, To Thee whose blood can wash each spot, O Lamb of God, I come ! children's HYilXS. 51 Just as I am, tlioiig:li toss VI about "With many a conflict, many a doubt, Fightings within and fears without, O Lamb of God, I come ! Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind — Sight, riches, healing of the mind Yea, all I need, in Thee to find, — Lamb of God, I come ! Just as I am, — Thou wilt receive, Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve, Because Thy promise I be'lieve, — O Lamb of God, I come ! Just as I am, Thy love, unknown, Has broken every barrier down ; Now .to be Thine, and Tbine alone, O Lamb of God, I come ! 42 ALL around thee, fair with flowers, Fields of beauty sleeping lie ; All around thee clarion voices Call to duty stem and high. Be thou thankful, and rejoice in All the beauty God hath given ; But beware it doth not vdn thee From the work ordained by lieaven- 53 CHILDREN'S HYMNS. To remove the wide-spread darkness, That the light of tnitli may shine ; To recall the child of error To Jehovah's holy shrine — To unbind the iron fetter Of the maimed and wretched slave ; To uplift the long degraded, Sin's abandoned victim save — To encourage suffering virtue. Lest despairing it should die ; And the light of hope rekindle In the dark and vacant eye — Cheerfully of thine abundance To the sick and poor impart ; And lift up the weight of sorrow From the crushed and burdened heart. This the work ordained of heaven, This is thine, and this for all ; Oh, be faithful, ever ready To obey the heavenly call. Follow every voice of mercy With a trusting, loving heart ; And in all life's earnest labor. Be thou sure to do thy part. children's hymns. 53 Now, to-day, and not to-morrow, Work, oh ! work with all thy might ; Lest the weary faint, and perish In the coming stormy night. Now, to-day, and not to-morrow, Lest before to-morrow's sun Thou, too, mournfully departing, Shalt have left thy work undone. 43 HOW sweet the name of Jesus sounds In a believer's ear ! It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds, And drives away his fear. It makes the wounded spirit whole, And calms the troubled breast ; 'Tis manna to the hungry soul, And to the wear}' rest. Weak is the effort of my heart, And cold my warmest thought ; But when I see Thee as Thou art I'll praise Thee as I ought. CHOiirs. I do believe I now believe, That Jesus died for me, And through His blood. His precious blood, I shall from sin be free. 5* 54 CIIILDR] 44 NEARER, my God, to Thee, Nearer to Thee ! E'en though it be a cross That raiseth me ! Still all my song shall be, Nearer, my God, to Thee, Nearer to Thee ! Though like the wanderer. The sun gone down, Darkness be over me, My rest a stone. Yet in ni}'" di'eams I'd be Nearer, my God, to Thee, Nearer to Thee ! There let my way appear Steps unto heaven ; All that Thou sendest me, In mercy given ; Angels to beckon me Nearer, my God, to Thee, Nearer to Thee ! 45 COME, children, hail the Prince of Peace, Obey the Saviour's call ; Come seek His face, and taste His grace, And crown Him Lord of all. children's hy:mxs. 55 Ye lambs of Christ, your tribute bring, Ye children, great and small, Hosanna sing to Christ j'our King, O crown Him Lord of all. This Jesus will your sins forgive, O haste ! before Him fall ; For you He died, that you might live To Crown Him Lord of all. Let every people, every tribe, Around this earthly ball. To Him all majesty ascribe, And crown Him Lord of all. All hail, the Saviour, Prince of peace, Let saints before Him fall ; Let sinners seek His pardoning grace, And crown Him Lord of all. 46 GOD is love. His mercy brightens All the path in which we move ; Bliss He grants, and woe He lightens, God is light, and God is love. Chance and change are busy ever ; "Worlds decay, and ages move ; But His mercy waneth never ; God is light, and God is love. .56 CniLDIlEN's HYMNS. E'en the hour that darkest seemeth, His unchanging goodness proves ; IFrom the mist His brightness streameth, God is light, and God is love. He our earthly cares entwineth With His comforts from above ; Everywhere His glory shineth : God is light, and God is love. 47 HOW sweet is the Sabbath, the morning of rest ; The day of the week which I surely love best ; The morning my Saviour arose from the tomb, And took from the grave all its terror and gloom. Oh let me be thoughtful and prayerful to-day. And not spend a minute in trifling or play ; Remembering these seasons were graciously given To teach me to seek, and prepare me for heaven. In the house of my God, in His presence and fear, When I worsMp to-day, may it all be sincere ; In the school when I leam, may I do it with care, And be grateful to those who watch over me there. Instruct me, my Saviour ; a child though I be, I am not too young to be noticed by Thee ; Renew Thou my heart, keep me firm in Thy ways, I would love Thee, and serve Thee and give Thee the praise. children's HYilNS. 57 48 FROM all that dwell IdbIow the skies, Let the Creator's praise arise , | Let the Redeemer's name be smig, Through every land by every tongue. Eternal are Thy mercies, Lord ; Eternal truth attends Thy word: Thy praise shall sound from shore to shore, Ti ill suns shall rise and set no more. May the grace of Christ our Saviour, And the Father's boundless love, "With the Holy Spirit's favor, Rest upon us from above. Thus may we abide in imion With each other and the Lord, And possess, in sweet communion, Joys which earth cannot afford. 49 FROM eveiy stormy wind that blows, From every swelling tide of woes, There is a calm, a sure retreat, ' Tis found beneath the mercy seat. 58 CniLDKEN'S HT^SCsS. There is a place where Jesus sheds The oil of gladness on our heads, A place than all besides more sweet, It is the blood-bought mercy seat. There is a scene wliere spirits blend, Where friend holds fellowship with friend, ^ Tho' sundered far, by faith they meet ' Around one common mercy seat. There — there on eagle wings we soar, And sin and sense seem all no more, And heaven comes down our souls to greet, And glory crowns the mercy seat. 50 WHEN we cannot see our way. Let us trust, and still obey ; He who bids us forward go ; Cannot fail the way to show. Though the sea be deep and wide, Though a passage seem denied ; Fearless let us still proceed. Since the Lord vouchsafes to lead. Though it seems the gloom of night, Though we see no ray of light ; Since the Lord Himself is there, ' Tis not meet that we should fear. children's nY]MXS. Night with Him is never night, Where He is, there all is light ; When He calls us, why delay ? They are happy who obey. Be it ours, then, while we're here, Him to follow without fear ! Where He calls us, there to go, What He bids us, that to do. 51 O THOU, the contrite sinner's Friend ! Who loving, lov'st them to the end, On this alone my hopes depend. That Thou wilt plead for me. When weary in the Christian race. Far off appears my resting place. And, fainting, I mistrust Thy grace, Then, Saviom*, plead for me. When I have erred and gone astray, Afar from Thine and wisdom's way, And see no glimm'ring, guiding ray, Still, Saviour, plead for me. When Satan, by my sins made bold, Strives from Thy cross to loose my hold, Then with Thy pitying arms enfold. And plead, oh ! plead for me. ciiildken's iit:mns. And when my dying hour draws near, Darkened with anguish, guilt, and fear, Then to my fainting sight appear, Pleading in heaven for me. When the full light of heavenly day, Reveals my sins in dread array, Say Thou hast washed them all away,- Oh ! say Thou plead' st for me ! 52 FATHER, whate'er of earthly bliss Thy sovereign will denies, Accepted at Thy throne of grace, Let this petition rise : Give me a calm and thankful heart. From every murmur free ; The blessings of Thy grace impart. And make me live to Thee. Let the sweet hope that Thou art mine, My life and death attend ; Thy presence through my journey shine. And crown my journey's end. 53 GOD moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform ; He plants His footsteps on the sea, And rides upon the storm. children's hymns. 61 Deep in unfathomable mines Of never-failinff skill, He treasures up His bright designs, And works His sovereign will. Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take : The clouds you so much dread Are big with mercy, and will break In blessings on your head. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace ; Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face. His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding eveiy hour ; The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flower. Blind unbelief is sure to err. And scan His works in vain ; God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain. 54 TRUE faith, produces love to God and man, Say, echo, is not this the gospel plan? The Gospel plan! 6 CHILDREN S HYMNS. Must I my faith and love to Jesus show By doing good to all, both friend and foe? Both friend and foe ! But if a brother hates and treats me ill, Must I return him good, and love him still ? Love him still ! If he my failings watches to reveal, Must I his faults as carefully conceal ? Carefully conceal ! But if my name and character he blast, And cruel malice, too, a long time last ; And if I sorrow and affliction know, He loves to add unto my cup of woe ; In this uncommon, this peculiar case. Sweet echo, say, must I still love and bless ? Still love and bless ! Whatever usage ill I may receive, Must I be patient still, and still forgive ? And still forgive ! Why echo, how is this ? thou'rt sure a dove ! Thy voice shall teach me nothing else but love, Nothing else but love ! Amen ! with all my heart — then be it so ; 'Tis all delightful, just, and good, I know, • And now to practice I'll directly go, — Directly go ! childken's HYams. 63 Things being so, whoever me reject, My gracious Lord will surely me protect ? Surely will protect ! Henceforth I'll roll on Him my every care, And then both Mend and foe embrace in prayer. Embrace in prayer ! But after all these duties I have done. Must I all point of merit then disown. And trust for heaven through Jesus' blood alone ? Throuo;h Jesus' blood alone ! 55 BREAST the wave. Christian, When it is strongest ; Watch for day. Christian, When the night's longest, Onward, and onward still Be thine endeavor, The rest that remaineth Shall be forever. Fight the fight, Christian, Jesus is o'er thee, — Run the race, Christian, Heaven is before thee. He that hath promised Flattereth never — The love that He giveth He giveth forever. 64 children's hymns. Lift the eye, Christian, Just as it closeth ; R^ise the heart, Christiaii, Ere it reposeth. Thee from the love of Christ Xothing shall sever, Mount when thy work is done, — Praise Him forever. 56 RE:ME:MBER thy Creator, While youth's fair spring is bright; Before thy cares are greater, Before comes age's night ; "While yet the sun shines o'er thee, While stars the darkness cheer, While life is all before thee, Thv areat Creator fear. Remember thy Creator Ere life resigns its trust. Ere sinks dissolving nature, And dust returns^ to dust; Before with God who gave it Thy spirit shall appear ; He cries, who died to save it, Thv OTeat Creator fear. cmLDREN's inrscfs. 65 57 BEHOLD the throne of grace ! The promise calls me near ; There Jesus shows a smiling face, And waits to answer prayer. Thiae image, Lord, bestow, Thy presence and Thy love ; I ask'to serve Thee here below, And reign with Thee above. Teach me to live by foith ; Conform my will to Thine ; Let me victorious be in death, And then in glorv shine. If Thou these blessings give, And wilt my portion be, All worldly joys I'll cheerful leave. And find mv heaven in Thee. 58 CHILDREX ! listen to the Lord, And obey His gracious word ; Seek His face with heart and mind — Earlv seek, and vou shall find. 6* 6G children's hymns. Let His love your heart inflame : Be His praise your highest aim ; Keep His fear before your sight : Be His smile your chief delight. Serve the Lord with perfect heart ; Never from His ways depart ; Glorify the King of Idngs, Take the peace the gospel brings. Turn to Christ your longing eyes, View this bleeding sacrifice ; See, in Him, your sins forgiven, Pardon, holiness, and heaven. 59 SAVIOUR, like a shepherd lead us : Much we need Thy tender care ; In Thy pleasant pastures feed us. For our use Thy folds prepare. We are Thine, do Thou befriend us, Be the guardian of our way ; Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us, Seek us when we go astray. Thou hast promised to receive us, Poor and sinful though we be ; Thou hast mercy to relieve us, Grace to cleanse, and power to free. children's HTirN'S. 67 Early let us seek Thy favor, Early let us do Thy will ; Holy Lord, our only Saviour, With Thy grace our bosom fill. Blessed Jesus ! 60 JESUS, and shall it ever be, A mortal man ashamed of Thee ? Ashamed of Thee, whom angels praise. Whose glories shine through endless days ? Ashamed of Jesus! sooner far Let evening blush to own a star ! He sheds His beams of light divine O'er this benighted soul of mine. Ashamed of Jesus ! that dear Friend, On whom my hopes of heavon depend ! No ! when I blush, be this my shame, That I no more revere His name. Till then, — nor is my boasting vain, — Till then I boast a Saviour slain 1 And, oh ! may this my glory be, That Christ is not ashamed of me. children's irOENS. 61 JESUS, I my cross have taken, All to leave and follow Thee ; Naked, poor, despised, forsaken, Thou from hence my all shall be. Perish every fond ambition ; All I've sought, or hoped, or known : Yet how rich is my condition, God and heaven are still my own. Let the world despise and leave me ; They have left my Saviour too. Human hearts and looks deceive me — Thou art not, like them, untrue ; And while Thou shalt smile upon me, God of wisdom, love, and might. Foes may hate, and friends disown me — Show Thy face and all is bright. Go, then, earthly fame and treasure. Come disaster, scorn, and pain ; In Thy service pain is pleasure, With Thy favor loss is gain. I have called Thee Abba Father, I have set my heart on Thee, Storms may howl, and clouds may gatlier. All must work for good to me. children's hymns. 69 Man may trouble and distress me, 'T will but drive me to Thy breast ; Life with trials hard may press me, Heaven will bring me sweeter rest. Oh, 'tis not in grief to harm me. While Thy love is left to me, Oh, 'twere not in joy to charm me, Were that joy unmixed with Thee. Soul, then know thy full salvation ; Rise o'er sin, and fear, and care ; Jov to find in every station Something still to do or bear. Think what Spirit dwells within thee ; Think what Father's smiles are thine ; Think that Jesus died to vnn thee : Child of heaven canst thou repine ? Haste thee on, from grace to glory. Armed by faith, and winged by prayer ; Heaven's eternal day's before thee, God's own hand shall guide thee there. Soon shall close thy earthly mission. Soon shall pass thy pilgrim days, Hope shall change to glad fruition. Faith to sight, and prayer to praise. 62 MY God, my Father, whilst I stray Far from my home in life's rough way, teach me from my heart to say Thy will be done ! 70 CIIILDilE>''s HYMNS. Thougli dark my path and sad my lot, May i be still and murmur not ; But breathe the prayer that thou hast taught, Thy will be done ! What though in lonely grief I sigh For Mends belov'd no longer nigh, Submissive still I would reply, Thy will be done ! If Thou shouldst call me to resign What most I prize — it ne'er was mine : I only yield Thee what is Thine, Thy will be done ! Should pining sickness waste away My strength in premature decay. My Father still I'll strive to say, Thy will be done ! Renew my will from day to day ; Blend it with Thine, and take away AH that now makes it hard to say Thy will be done ! Then when on earth I breathe no more The prayer oft mixed with tears before, I'll sing upon a happier shore, Thy will be done ! h children's IIOEN'S. 71 63 WHEN Jesus left His heavenly home He chose an humble birth ; Like us unhonored and unknown, He came to dwell on earth. Like Him may we be fomid below, In wisdom's path of peace ; Like Him in grace and knowledge grow^. As years and strength increase. Sweet were His words and kind His look When mothers round Him pressed ; Their infants in His arms He took, And on His bosom blessed. Safe from the world's alluring charms Beneath His watchful eye ; 0, thus encircled in His arms May we forever lie. 64 ZION the marvellous story be telling, The Son of the Highest, how lowly His birth ; The highest archangel in glory excelling, He stoops to redeem thee. He reigns upon earth. Chorus. Shout the glad tidmgs, exultingly sing Jerusalem triumphs, Messiah is Kmg ! '73 CniLDREN's HYMNS. Tell how He cometli ; from nation to nation, The heart cheering news let the earth echo round, How free to the faithful He offers salvation. How His people with joy everlasting are crowned. Chorus. Mortals your homage be gratefully bringing And sweet let the gladsome hosanna arise ; Ye angels the full hallelujah be singing, One chorus resounds thro' the earth and the skies. CHOiirs. 65 WHEN gathering clouds around I view, And days are darlv and fi-iends are few, On Him I lean who not in vain Experienced eveiy human pain. He sees my griefs, allays my fears. And counts and treasures up my tears. If aught should tempt my soul to stray From heavenly wisdom's narrow way, To fly the good I would pursue. Or do the thing I would not do ; Still He who felt temptation's power. Will guard me in that dangerous hour. children's iiT:^rxs. 73 K wounrtled love my bosom swell, Despised by those I prized too well ; He shall His pitying aid bestow, Who felt on earth severer woe ; At once betrayed, denied, or fled. By those who shared His daily bread. When vexing thoughts within me rise, And sore dismayed, my spirit dies ; Yet, He, who once vouchsafed to bear The sickening anguish of despair, Shall sweetly soothe, shall gently dry. The throbbing heart, the streaming eye. 66 WHEN marshall'd on the mighty plain, The glittering host bestud the sky ; One star alone of all the train, Can fix the sinner's wandering eye. Hark, hark ! to God the chorus breaks, From every host, from every gem ; But one alone the Saviour speaks. It is the Star of Bethlehem. Once on the raging seas I rode. The storm was loud, the night w^as dark ; The ocean yawn'd, and rudely blow'd The wind that toss'd my fomidering bark. 74 children's hymks. Deep horror tlicii my vitals froz^ Death-struck, I ceased the tide to stem ; When suddenly a star arose — It was the Star of Bethlehem ! It was my guide, my light, my all, It bade my dark forbodings cease ; And, through the stonn and dangers thrall It led me to the port of peace. Now, safely moor'd — mv perils o'er — I'll sing, first in night'^s diadem, For ever, and for evermore. The Star— the Star of Bethlehem. 67 PILGRIM on the road to glory, Pressing towards the heavenly piize, Mid the ills that now annoy thee, Mid the dangers that arise ; When thy way is dark and dreaiy, Rugged, filled with loud alarms, When perplexed, exhausted, weary, Trust the everlasting Arms. children's kymns. 75 When the waves of trouble heighten, When the billows fiercely foam, All thou seest conspires to frighten, Friends and helpers fail to come ; When of human aid despairing, And no voice the tempest calms. Think of this, that underneath thee Are the everlasting Arms. When corroding cares oppress thee. When the tempter's doubts assaO, When thy inward foes distress thee, When they threaten to prevail ; When thou fear'st the thoughts of yielding^ When thou d'st rather die than sin. When thy hopes seem just expiring. Everlasting Arms sustain. And when all below is closing, When thou tread' st the briny flood ; When thou feel'st the waters rising. Thou shalt find the promise good. Timid Christian venture onward, Bid farewell to all alarms, 'Tis enough that underneath thee Are the everlasting Arms. I OFTEN say my prayers, But do I ever pray ? Or do the wishes of my heart Dictate the words I say ? 76 children's hymns. 'T is useless to implore Unless I feel the need, Unless 't is from a sense of want That all my prayers proceed. I may as well kneel down And worship wood and stone, As offer to the living God A prayer of words alone. Lord ! teach me what I want, And teach me how to pray ; Nor let me e'er implore Thy grace Not feeling what I say. 69 A CHARGE to keep I have, A God to glorify ; A never-dying soul to save, And fit it for the Bky. To serve the present age, My calling to fulfil ; Oh, may it all my powers engage, To do my Master's will. Arm me with jealous care, As in Thy sight to live ; And, oh, thy servant, Lord, prepare A strict account to u-ive. children's hymns. ^^ Help me to watch and pray, And on Thyself rely, Assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die. 70 "WHEN all Thy mercies, O my God, My rising soul surveys ; Transported with the view, I'm lost In wonder, love and praise. To all my weak complaints and cries Thy mercy lent an ear ; Ere yet my feeble thoughts had learned To form themselves in prayer. Unnumber'd comforts to my soul Thy tender cares bestow' d ; Before my infant heart conceived From whom those comforts flow'd. "When in the slippery paths of youth, "With heedless steps I ran, Thine arm unseen convey'd me safe, And led me up to man. Through hidden dangers toils and deaths, It gently clear'd my way, And through the pleasing snares of vice, More to be feard than they. 1* 78 children's hymns. Thy bounteous Hand with worldly bliss Has made my cup run o'er; And in a kind and faithful Friend Has doubled all my store. When natui'e fails, and day and night Divide Thy works no more ; My ever grateful heart, Lord, Thy mercy shall adore. Through all eternity to Thee A joyful song I'll raise, For O eternity's too short To utter all Thy praise. r 71 IN the Christian's home in glory There remains a land of rest ; There my Saviour 's gone before me, To fulfil my soul's request. CHORUS. There is rest for the weary, There is rest for the weary, There is rest for the weary, On the other side of Jordan, In the sweet fields of Eden, Where the tree of life is blooming, There is rest for you. children's hymns. 79 He is fitting up my mansion, Whicli eternally shall stand, For my stay shall not be transient In that holy, happy land. There is rest for the weary, &c. Pain and sickness ne'er shall enter, Grief nor woe my lot shall share, But in that celestial centre, I a crown of life shall wear. There is rest &c. Sing, oh, sing ye heirs of glory ; Shout your triumphs as you go ; Zion's gates will open for you, You will find an entrance through. There is rest t&c. 72 GENTLY, Lord, O gently lead us Through this lowly vale of tears ; And, O Lord, in mercy give us Th}^ rich grace in all our fears. O, refresh us — O refresh us with Thy grace. 80 ciiii.uj'-en's ^YM^'S. Thongli ten thousand ills beset us, From without and from within, , Jesus saj'S He'll ne'er forget us, But will save from hell and sin ; He is faithfril, To perform His gracious word. O that I could now adore Him Like the heavenly host above — Who forever bow before Him, And unceasing sing His love. Happy songsters, When shall I your chorus join ? 73 AND was my Saviour once a child, Alittle child like me? And was He humble, meek, and mild. As little ones should be ? Oh ! ^7hy did not the Son of God Come as an angel bright ? And why not leave His fair abode To come with power and might ? Because He came not here to reign, As sovereigns here below ; He came to save our souls from sin. Whence all our sorrows flow. children's hymns. 81 And did that Son of God most high, Consent a man to be ? And did that blessed Saviour die Upon the cross for me ? And did my Saviour freely give, His life for sinful men ? What ! did He die that we might live ? Oh, how He loved us then ! 74 OH Father, bless a little child. And in my earlj^ youth Give me a spirit good and mild, A soul to love the truth. May never fiilsehood in my heart Or in mj'' vrords abide, But may I act the truthful part Whatever may betide. When for some little insult given, My angiy passions rise, I '11 think how Jesus came from heaven, And bore His injuries. CHILDR.E>; S HYMNS. Dear Father, may I learn from Him My temper to amend, And walking in humility, May peace my steps attend. 75 JESUS see a little child . Pmnbly at Thy footstool stay ; Thou who art so meek and mild, Stoop and teach me what to say. Though Thou art so great and high, Thou dost view ^ath smiling face, Little children when they cry, " Saviour, guide us by Thy grace." Show me what I ought to be, Make me every evil shun ; Thee in all things may I see. In Thy holy footsteps run. Jesus all my sins forgive. Make me lowly, pure in heart, For Thy glory maj- I live, Then be with Thee where Thou art. children's hymns. 83 76 GOD is in heaven— cau He hear A feeble prayer like mine ? Yes, little child, thou need'st not fear, He listeneth to thine. God is in heaven — can He see "When I am doing wrong ? Yes that He can — He looks at thee All day and all night long. God is in heaven — would He know^ If I should teU a lie ? Yes, if thou saidst it very low, He'd hear it in the sky. God is in heaven — can I go To thank Him for His care ? Not yet — but love Him here below, And thou shalt praise Him there. A 77 THERE is a happy land, Far, far away, "Where saints in glory stand, Bright, bright as day j Oh, how they sweetly sing, "Worthy is our Saviour King, Loud let His praises ring, Praise, praise for aye. 84 children's hymns. Come to that happy land, Come, come awa^ ; Why will ye doubtmg stand ? Why still delay? Oh, we shall happy be, When from sin and sorrow free, Lord, we shall live with Thee, Blest, blest for aye. Bright in that happy land Beams every eye, Kept by a Father's hand, Love cannot die. Oh, then to glory run ; Be a crown and'kingdom won ; And bright above the sun We reign for aye. .s^ 78 I THINK when I read that sweet story of old, When Jesus was here among men. How He called little children, as lambs, to His fold, I should like to have been with Him then ; I wish that His hands had been placed on my head, That His arms had been thrown around me, And that I might have seen His kind look when He said, " Let the little ones come unto Me." children's hy.mxs. 85 Yet still to His footstool in prayer I may go, And ask for a share of His love, And if I thus earnestly seek Him below, I shall see Him and hear Him above, — In that beautiful place He has gone to prepare For all who are washed and forgiven ; And many dear children are gathering there, " For of such is the kingdom of heaven." But thousands and thousands who wander and fall, Never heard of that lieavenlj^ home ; I should like them to know there is room for them all, And that Jesus has bid them to come. I long for the joys of that glorious time, The sweetest, and brightest, and best, When the dear little children of every clime Shall crowd to His arms and be blessed. 79 LORD, teach a little child to pray ; Thy grace betimes impart ; And grant Thy Holy Spirit may Renew my sinful heart. 8 86 CIIILDKENS HYMNS. A follen creature I was born, And from my birth I strayed : I must be wretched and forlorn Without Thy mercy's aid. But Christ can all my sins forgive, And wash away their stain ; Can fit my soul with Him to live, And in His kingdom reign. To Him let little children come, For He hath said they may ; His bosom then shall be their home, Then- tears He'll wipe away. For all who early seek His face Shall surely taste His love ; Jesus shall guide them by His grace To dwell with Him above. 80 WHEN little Samuel woke, Ard heard his Maker's voice, At every word He spoke, How much did he rejoice? Oh blessed happy child ! to find The God of heaven so mild and kind. children's iiym:xs. 87 If God would speak to me, And say He was my friend, How happy I should be ! Oh how would I attend ! The smallest sin I then should fear, If God Almighty were so near. And does He never speak ! Oh yes, His written word Bids me to come and seek, The God whom Samuel heard ; In almost every page I see, The God of Samuel calls to me. And I beneath His care May safely rest my head ; I know that God is there, To guard my humble bed ; And every sin I may well fear. Since God Almighty is so near. Like Samuel, let me say, Whene'er I read His word, ■ Speak, Lord ; I would obey The voice that Samuel heard !" And when I in Thy house appear. Speak, for Thy servant waits to hear. S3 cuILDllE^''s HYMNS. 81 GREAT Sheplicrd of the sheep, Who all Thy flock doth keep, Leading by waters calm, Do Thou mv footsteps guide To follow by Thy side, Make me Thy little lamb. I fear I may be torn By many a sharp-set thorn. As far from Thee I stray ; My weary feet may bleed, For rough are paths which lead Out of Thy pleasant way. But when the road is long. Thy tender arm, and strong The weary one will bear ; And Thou wilt wash me clean, And lead to pastures green. Where all the flowers are fair. ' Till, from the soil of sin Cleansed and made pure within, Dear Saviour, whose I am, Thou bringest me in love. To Thy sweet fold above, A little snow-white lamb. children's HYilXS. 89 82 LITTLE schoolmates can you tell Who has kept us safe and Tvell Through the watches of the night, Brought us safe to see the light ? Yes, it is our God doth keep Little children while they sleep ; He has kept us safe from harm, Shelter' d by His powerful arm. Can you tell who gives us food, Clothes and homes and parents good, Schoolmates dear and teachers kind, Useful books and active mind ? Yes ! our heavenly Father's care Gives us all we eat and wear ; All our books and all our friends God, in kindness, to us sends. Oh, then let us thankful be For His mercies large and free ; Every morning let us raise Our young voices in His praise. 90 children's nvMisrs. 83 CHILDREN do you love each other? Are you always kind and true ? Do you always do to others As you'd have them do to you ? Are you gentle to each other ? Are you careful day by day, Not to give offence by actions, Or by anything you say ? Little children love each other, Never give another pain ; If your brother speak in anger, Answer not in wrath again. Be not selfish to each other — Never mar another's rest ; Strive to make each other happy And you will yourselves be blest. 84 "WHO are sowing ? "Who are sowing ? These young children now at play ; And the scattered seeds are growing Night by night and day by day : Some with fruitful grain are shooting, Some will only weeds produce. Which alas ! Avill need uprooting. Ere the soil be fit for use. CUILDKEN's IIVMNS. 91 Who are sowing? those just leaving Childhood and its sports behind ; Hearts with golden visions heaving, Are they sowing to the wind ? If they toil, on Christ relying, If His glory be their aim, They may hope with hope undying, ' They shall reap eternal gain. Who are sowing ? Those expending Manhood's years for objects vain; Earth beyond, no thoughts extending, What shall be their future gain ? Who are sowing ? Those still clinging To the dregs of life misspent ; Tares around their footsteps springing. Earnest of their end present. Who are sowing ? Who are sowing ? Children, manhood, youth and age. And the scattered seeds are growing, Putting forth at every stage ; All along life's pathway springing, Bearin^^ fruit, or flower, or weed, On the air their odor flinging. Either for our bane or need. Soon will dawn the day of reaping. Soon the gathering time will come. When each seed its promise keeping. All shall bear their harvest home. 93 ciiildken's hymns. 85 LITTLE travellers Zionward, Each one entering into rest, In the kingdom of your Lord, In the mansions of the blest — There to welcome, Jesus waits, Gives the crown His followers win. Lift your heads, ye golden gates, Let the little travellers in ! Who are they whose little feet, Pacing life's dark journey through, Now have reached that heavenly seat They had ever kept in view ? " I fron{ Greenland's frozen strand," " I from India's sultry plain," " I from Afric's barren sand," " I from Islands of the main." " All our earthly journey past. Every tear and pain gone by, Here together met at hist, At the portals of the sky." Each the welcome "come" awaits. Conquerors o'er death and sin. Lift your heads ye golden gates ! Let the little travellers in. chllwiek's hymns. 03 86 Ever would I fain be reading In the ancient holy book, Of my Saviour's gentle pleading, — Truth in every word and look. How when children came He blessed them, Suffered no man to reprove, Took them in His arms and pressed them To His heart with words of love. How to all the sick and tearful Help was ever gladly shown ; How He sought the poor and fearful. Called them brothers and His own. How no contrite soul e'er sought Him, And was bidden to depart ; How with gentle words He taught him. Took the dart from out his heart. Still I read the ancient story, And my joy is ever new ; How for ias He left His glory, How He still is kind and true. How the flock He gently leadeth, Which His Father gave Him here: How His arms He kindly spreadeth To His heart to draw us near. CHILD11E]N^ S IIYirNS. Let me kneel, my Lord, before Thee, Let my heart iu tears o'erflow, Melted by Thy love, adore Thee, Blest in Thee mid joy or woe. 87 JESUS, tender Shepherd, hear me! Bless a little child to-night ; Through the darkness be Thou near me, Watch my sleep till morning light. All this day Thy hand has led me, And I thank Thee for Thy care ; Thou hast clothed me, warm'd me, fed me, Listen to my evening prayer. . Let my sins be all forgiven ; Bless the friends I love so well ; Take me, when I die, to heaven, Happy there with. Thee to dwell. 88 WHO showed the little ant the way Her narrow hole to bore. And spend the pleasant summer day In laying up her store ? CHILDIlE^''s HYitXS. 95 The sparrow builds her skilful nest Of wool, and hay, and moss ; Who told her how to weave it best And lay the twigs across ? Who taught the busy bee to fly Among the sweetest flowers, And lay his store of honey by, To eat in winter hours ? 'T was God who show'd them all the way, And gave their little skill, And teaches childi'en if they pray, To do His holy will. 89 YEA, fear not, fear not, little ones ; There is in heaven an Eye That looks with yearning fondness down On all the paths ye try. 'T is He who guides the sparrow's wing. And guards her little brood ; Who hears the ravens when they ciy. And fills them all with food. 'T is He who clothes the fields with flowers, And pours the light abroad ; 'T is He who numbers all your hours, Your Father and your God. CHILDREN S HYMNS. Ye are the chosen of His love, His most peculiar care ; And will He guide the fluttering dove, And not regard your prayer V Nay, fear not, fear not, little ones; There is in heaven an Eye That looks with yearning fondness down On all the paths you try. He'll keep you when the storm is wild. And wiien the flood is near ; Oh trust Him, trust Him as a cliild. And you have naught to fear. 90 GENTLE Jesus, meek and mild, Look upon a little child ; Pity my simplicity, Suffer me to come to Thee. Fain I would to Thee be brought; Gracious God forbid it not; In the kingdom of Thy grace. Give a little child a place. Oh supply my every want. Feed the young and tender plant; Day and niglit my keeper be, Every moment watch o'er me. children's hymns. 97 91 UP and doing, little Christian, Up and doing while 't is day ; Do the work the Master gives you, Do not loiter by the way ; For we all have work before us, You, dear child, as well as I ; Let us seek to learn our duty, And perform it cheerfully. Up and doing, little Christian, Gentle be and ever kind ; Helpful to thy loving mother, E'en her slightest wishes mind : Let the little children love you For your care, and harmless play ; And the feeble and more wilful, Help them by your kindly way. ^ 92 LITTLE drops of water, Little grains of sand, Make the mighty ocean, And the beauteous land. Ii8 childhen's hymxs. And the little moments, Humble though they be, Make the mighty ages Of eternity. So our little en-ors Lead the soul away, From the path of virtue, Oft in sin to stray. Little deeds of kindness, Little words of love, Make our earth an Eden, Like the heaven above. Little seeds of mercy Sown by youthful hands, Grow to bless the nations, Far in distant lands. 93 I WANT to be an angel, And with the angels stand, A crown upon my forehead, A harp within my hand ; There, ri^ht before my Saviour, So glorious and so bright, I 'd wake the sweetest music, And praise Him day and night. children's hyaens. 99 I never should be weary, Nor ever shed a tear, Nor ever know a sorrow. Nor ever feel a fear ; But, blessed, pure, and holy, I'd dwell in Jesus' sight, And with ten thousand thousands, Praise Him both day and night. I know I 'm weak and sinful, But Jesus will forgive ; For many little children Have gone to heaven to live. Dear Saviour when I languish, And Lay me down to die, O send a shining angel. To bear me to the'sky. Oh then I '11 be an angel, And with the angels stand ; A crowTi upon my forehead, A harp within my hand ; And there before my Saviour, So glorious and so bright, I'll join the heavenly music. And praise Him day and night. 94 POOR and needy though I be, God Almighty cares for me ; Gives me clothing, shelter, food — Gives me all I have of good. 100 children's hymns. He will hear me when I pray, He is with mc night and day, When 1 sleep and when I wake, For the Lord my Saviour's sake. He who reigns above the sky. Once became as poor as I ; He whose blood for me was shed, Had not where to lay His head. Though I labor here a while, Father bless me with Thy smile ; And when this short life is past. May I rest with Thee at last. Then to Thee I '11 tune my song, Happy as the day is long ; This my joy forever be, God Almighty cares for me. 95 AROUND the throne of God in heaven Thousands of children stand, — Children whose sins are all forgiven, A holy, happy band, — Singing, " Glory, glory, glory be to God on high !" children's hymns. 101 In flowing robes of spotless white See every one arrayed, Dwelling in everlasting light, And joys that never fade. Singing, Glory, glory, &c. What brought them to that world above, That heaven so bright and fair, Where all is peace, and joy, and love ; How came those children there ? Singing, Glorj^, glory, &c. Because the Saviour shed His blood To wash away their sin ; Bathed in that pure and precious flood, Behold them white and clean ! Singing, Glor}', glory, &c. 9 On earth they sought the Saviour's grace, On earth they loved His name ; So now they see His blessed face. And stand before the Lamb. — Singing, Glory, glory, &c. 96 JESUS CHRIST, my Lord and Saviour, Once became a child like me ; that in my whole behavior. He my pattern still might be. 9* 102 ciiildken's IIYM>'S. All my nature is unholy, Pride and passion dwell within ; j8ut the Lord was meek and lowly, And was never known to sin. While I 'm often vainly trying Some new pleasure to possess ; He was always self-denying, Patient in His worst distress. Lord, assist a feeble creature ; Guide me by Thy word of truth ; Condescend to be nij teacher, Through my childhood and my youth. 97 I WANT to be like Jesus, So lowly and so meek ; For no one marked an angry word That ever heard Him speak. I want to be l';.e J;\ i^?, So frequciTily in p!;>yrT; Alone upon Tue monni.iiii top, He met His Fail-'cr liii.re. children's hymns. 103 I want to be like Jesus, I never, never find That He, though persecuted, was To any one unkind. I want to be like Jesus, Engaged in doing good, So that of me it may be said : " She hath done what she could " Alas! I'm not like Jesus, As any one may see ; O gentle Saviour ! send Thy grace, And make me like to Thee. 98 HOW doth the little busy bee Improve each shining hour, And gather honey all the day From every opening flower ! How skilfully she builds her cell ! How neat she spreads her wax ! And labors hard to store it well With the sweet food she makes. 104 children's hymns. In works of labor or of skill, I would be busy too ; Por Satan finds some mischief still For idle hands to do. In books or w^orks, or healthful play, Let my first years be past ; That I may give for every day Some good account at last. LORD I would own Thy tender care, And all Thy love to me ; The food I eat, the clothes I wear. Are all bestowed by Thee. And Thou preservest me from death, And danger, every hour ; I cannot draw another breath, Unless Thou give the power. My health, and friends, and parents dear, To me by God are given ; I have not any blessings here, But what are sent from heaven. CinLDREN's HYilNS. . 105 Sucli goodness, Lord, and constant care, A child can ne'er repay ; But may it be my daily prayer, To love Thee and obey. 100 TO do to others as I would That they should do to me ; Will make me honest, kind and good, As children ought to be. I know I should not steal, nor use The smallest thing I see ; Whick I should never like to lose, If irbelonged to me. And this plam rule forbids me quite. To strike an angry blow ; Because I should not think it right If others served me so. But any kindness they may need, I'll do, whate'er it be; As I am very glad indeed, When they are kind to me. CHILDREN S HYMNS. 101 OH what can little hands do To please the King of heaven? The little hands some work may try To help the poor in misery ; Such grace to ours be given. Oh what can little lips do To please the King of heaven ? The little lips can praise and pray, And gentle words of kindness say ; Such grace to ours be given. Oh what can little eyes do To please the King of heaven ? The little eyes can u^jward look, Can learn to read God's holy book ; Such grace to ours be given. ^ Oh what can little hearts do To please the King of heaven ? The hearts if God His Spirit send Can love and trust their Saviour Friend; Such grace to ours be given. Though small is all that we can do To please the King of heaven ; When hearts and hands and lips unite To serve the Saviour with delight, The}^ are most precious in His sight ; Such grace to ours be given. CniLDKEN-'S HY^rN'S. 107 102 "WHEN I look up to j^onder sky, So pure, so bright, so wondrous high, I think of One^I cannot see. But One who sees and cares for me. His name is God ! He gave me birth, And every living thing on earth ; And every tree and plant that grows, To the same Hand its being owes. 'Tis He my daily food supplies. And all that I require besides ; And when I close my slumbering eye, I sleep in peace, for He is nigh. Then surely I should ever love This gracious God who reigns above ; For very kind indeed is He, To love a little child like me. ^ 103 1. THOU shalt have no more gods but Me. 2. Before no idol bow thy knee, 3. Take not the name of God in vain, 4. Nor dare the Sabbath day profane ; 5. Give both thy parents honor due ; 108 childken's hymns. 6. 1 ake heed that thou no murder do ; 7. Abstain from words and deods unclean ; 8. Nor steal though thou art poor and mean ; 9. Nor make a wilful lie, nor love it ; 10. What is thy neighbor's dare not covet. 104 LET love through all my actions run, And all my words be mild ; Live like the blessed Virgin's Son, That sweet and lovely child. His soul was gentle as a lamb ; And as in age He grew, He grew in favor both with man And God His Father too. Now, Lord of all. He reigns above, And from His heavenly throne. He sees what children dwell in love, And marks them for His own. 105 GREAT God and wilt Thou condescend To be my father and my friend V I, a poor child, and Thou so high, The Lord of earth, and air, and sky ! CHILDKEN'S HYMNS. 109 Art Thou my father ? Canst Thou bear To hear my poor unperfect prayer ; Or stoop to listen to the praise That such a little one can raise ? Art Thou my father ? Let me be A meek, obedient child to Thee ; And try in word, and deed, and thought, To serve and please Thee as I ought. Art Thou my father? I'll depend Upon the care of such a friend ; And only wish to do and be, Whatever seemeth good to Thee. Art Thou my father ? Then at last. When all my days on earth are past, Send down and take me, in Thy love, To be Thy better child above. 106 INTO her chamber went A little maid one day ; And by a chair she knelt. And thus began to pray ; ** Jesus my eyes I close, 10 110 children's hymns. Thy form I cannot see ; ^ If Thou art near me, Lord, I pray Thee speak to me." A still small voice she heard within her soul ; " What is it, child? I hear thee, tell Me all." " I pray Thee, Lord," she said, " That Thou wilt condescend To tarry in my heart, And ever be my friend. The path of life looks dark — I would not go astray. Oh ! let me have Thy hand To lead me in the way." " Fear not, I will not leave thee, child alone." She thought she felt a soft hand press her own. " They tell me. Lord, that all The living pass awajjr. The aged soon must die. And even children may. Oh ! let my parents live Till I a woman grow, For if they die, what can Alittle orphan do?" " Fear not my child, whatever ills may come, I'll not forsake thee till I brins: thee home." Her little prayer was said. And from her chamber now She passed forth with the light Of heaven upon her brow. "Mother, I've seen the Lord, children's hymns. Ill His hand in mine I felt, And oh, I heard Him say, As by my chair I knelt, * Fear not my child, whatever ills may come, I'll not forsake thee till I brin^ thee home.' " 107 A GIDDY lamb one afternoon Had from the fold departed ; The tender shepherd missed it soon, And sought it broken hearted. Not all the'flock that shared his love, Could from the search delay him, Kor clouds of midnight darkness move, Nor fear of suffering stay him. But night and day he went his way In sorrow till he found it ; And when he saw it fainting lie, He clasped his arms around it. Then, safely folded to his breast. From every ill to save it, He brought it to his home of rest. And pitied and forgave it. And thus the Saviour will receive The little ones who fear Him ; Their pains remove, their sins forgive, ^\jid draw them gcntlv near Him. 113 ciiilduen's hymns. Bless -while they live, and when they die, When flesh and spirit sever, Conduct them to His throne on high, To dwell with Him forever. 108 HE caused the deaf His voice to hear, The dumb proclaimed their Saviour near. The blind rejoiced to have their sight, And the lame leaped with great delight. Diseases at His bidding fled, And life revisited the dead. He bade the raging tempest flee ; He calmly walked upon the sea ; And wondering multitudes He fed With a few fish and loaves of bread. By His own power He left the grave To w^hich He stooped our souls to save ; And numerous witnesses record The resurrection of our Lord. i»rt ^tc(iin& MlSCELIiAlVEOUS HYMIVS, 109 I KNEW a sickly little child, The long, long summer's day, "When all the world was green and bright, Alone in bed he lay : There used to come a little dove, Before his window small, And sing to him with her sweet voice. Out of the fir tree tall. And when the sick child better grew. And he could crawl along. Close to that window he would creep, And listen to her song ; And he was gentle in his speech, And quiet at his play. He would not for the world have made That sweet bird fly away. 10 * il4 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. There is a Holy Dove that sings To every Christian child, That whispers to his little heart, A song more sweet and mild, It is the Holy Spirit of God, That speaks to his soul within, That leads him on to all things good, And holds him back from sin. And he must hear that still small Voice, Nor tempt it to depart, The Spirit great and wonderful, That whispers to his heart ; He must be pure, and good, and true, Must strive, and watch, and pray, For unresisted, sin at last, WUl di'ive that Dove away. 110 'T IS sweet to work for Jesus, In this life's little day ; To spread around " the joyful sound," As those forgiven may ; To tell His lovmg kindness, His promises so true ; To urge the young that they may come. And trust this Saviour too. MISCELLA^'EOUS HYMNS. 115 'T is sweet to work for Jesus, For Him who loved, and gave Himself for us, an offering thus Our rmned souls to save. Glad service we would render For grace so rich and free ; Yet, Lord, we moiu-n, that we have borne So little fruit to Thee. 'T is sweet to work for Jesus, Be this our one desire, Our purpose still, to do His will, Whatever He require. No action is too lowly, No work of love too small ; If Christ but lead, we may, indeed, Well follow such a call. 'T is sweet to work for Jesus, While our weak spirits rest In His own care, safe sheltered there, And with His presence blest. In such calm, happy moments, No greater joy we know ; Redeemed from sin, we live for Hin\ To whom our all we owe. 'T IS sweet to work for Jesus — Oh ! weary not of this, But onward press with cheerfulness, Though rough the pathway is. 116 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Hold on, unmoved and patient, Till He shall call thee home, With joy to stand at God's right hand, To serve before the throne. Ill " WILL you come with me, my pretty one?" I asked a little child, " Will you come with me and gather flowers ' She looked at me and smiled. Then, in a low, sweet, gentle voice, She said, " I cannot come, I must not leave this narrow path, For I am soins: home." " But will you not ?" I asked again, " The sun is shining bright, And you might twine a lily-wreath To carry home at night ; And I could show you pleasant things If you Avould only come :" But still she answered as before, — " No ; I am going home." " But look, my child : the fields are green, And 'neatli the leafy trees Children are playing merrily. Or resting at their ease. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 117 Does it not hurt your tender feet This stony path to tread ?" " Sometimes ; but I am going home !" Once more she sweetly said. ■ Mv Father bade me keep this path, Nor ever turn aside ; The road which leads away from Him Is very smooth and wide ; The fields are fresh, and cool, and green, Pleasant the shady trees ; But those aroimd my own dear home Are lovelier far than these. I must not loiter on the road. For I have far to go ; And I should like to reach the door Before the sun is low. I must not stay ; but will you not — Oh, will you not— come too ? My home is very beautiful, And there is room for you." I took her little hand in mine : Together we went on ; Brighter and brighter o'er our path The blessed su'nbeams shone. At length we saw the distant towers ; But, ere we reached the gate, The child outstripped my lingering feet, Too overjoyed to wait. 118 MISCELLANEOUS HYlklNS. And, as she turned her radiant face Once more to bid me come, I heard a chorus of ghid songs, — A burst of " Welcome Home !" 112 "WE were crowded in the cabin, Not a soul would dare to sleep, It was midnight on the waters. And a storm was on the deep. 'T is a fearful thing in winter. To be shattered in the blast. And to hear the rattling trumpet Thunder, " Cut away the mast." So we shuddered there in silence. For the stoutest held his breath. While the hungry sea was roaring. And the breakers talked with death> As thus we sat in darkness, Each one busy in his prayers, — "We are lost !" the captain shouted, As he staggered down the stairs. But his little daughter whispered, As she took his icy hand, " Isn't God upon the ocean. Just the same as on the land ? " MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 119 Then we kissed the little maiden, And we spoke in better cheer, And we anchored safe in harbor Where the morn was shininsr clear. 113 HAVE pit^ on them ! for their life Is Ml ot grief and care ; Ye do not Imow one half the woes The very poor must bear ; You do not see the silent tears By many a mother shed, As childhood offers up the prayer, " Give us our daily bread." And sick at heart she turns away From the small face, wan with pain. And feels that prayer has long been said By those young lips in vain. You do not see the pallid cheeks Of those whose years are few, But who are old in all the griefs The poor must struggle through. Deal gently with these wretched ones, Whatever wrought their woe, For the poor have much to tempt and test That you can never know. 120 MISCELLANEOUS HYiCNS. Then judge them not, for hard indeed Is their dark lot of care ; Xet heaven condemn, but human hearts With human faults should bear. 114 THE curling waves with awful roar, A little bark assailed ; And pallid fear's distracted power, O'er all on board prevailed, Save one, the captain's darling child, Who steadfast viewed the storm ; And cheerful, with composure, smiled At danger's threatening: form. " "Why sport' st thou thus," a seaman cried, " While terrors overwhelm ?" " Why should I fear? " the boy replied, *' My father's at the helm !" So when our worldly all is reft, Our earthly helper gone ; We stDl have one true anchor left, God helps, and He alone. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 131 Then turn to Him 'mid sorrows wild When wants and woes o'erwhelm ; Remembering, like the fearless child, Our Father's at the helm. 115 IN the tempest of life, when the wave and the gale Are around and above, if thy footing should fail — If thine eye should grow dim, and thy courage depart, " Look aloft " and be firm, and be fearless of heart. If the friend who embraced in prosperity's glow, With a smile for each joy and a tear for each woe. Should betray thee, — when sorrows like clouds are array'd, " Look aloft" to the friendship which never shall fade. Should the visions which hope spreads in light to thine eye. Like the tints of the rainbow, but brighten to fly. Then turn, and through tears of repentant regret, " Look aloft " to the Sun that is never to set. And oh ! when death comes in his terrors to cast His fears on the future, his pall on the past ; In that moment of darkness, with hope in thy heart, And a smile in thine eve, " Look aloft '* and depart. 11 122 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 116 THY neighbor ? It is lie whom thou Hast power to aid and bless, Whose aching heart or twining brow, Thy soothing hand may press. Thy neighbor? 'Tis the fainting poor, Whose eye with M^ant is dim, Whom hmiger sends from door to door ; — Go thou, and succor him. Thy neighbor ? 'T is that weary man, Oppressed in every limb. Bent loAv with sickness, age, and pain ; Go thou, and comfort him. Thy neighbor ? 'T is the heart bereft Of every earthly gem ; Widow and orphan, helpless left : — Go thou, and shelter him. Thy neighbor ? Yonder toiling slave, Fettered in thought and limb. Whose hopes are all beyond the grave,- Go thou, and ransom him. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. " 123 Where'er thou meet'st a human form, Less favored than thine own, Remember 't is thy neighbor worm, Thy brother, or thy son. Oh, pass not, pass not heedless by ; Perhaps thou canst redeem The breaking heart from misery : Go share thy lot with him. 117 DEAL gently with the erring one, You may not know the power With which the first temptation came In some unguarded hour. You may not know how earnestly He struggled — or how well ; Until the hour of weakness came, And sadly thus he fell. Speak gently to the eriing one, Oh ! do not thou forget, However deeply stained with sin, He is thy brother yet. Heir of the self-same heritage. Child of the self-same God, He hath but stumbled in the path Thou hast in weakness trod. 124 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Speak gently to the erring one, For is it not enough, That peace and innocence are gone, Without thy censure rough? Oh sure it is a weary lot, That sin crushed heart to bear ; And they who have a happier lot, May well their chidings spare. Speak gently to the erring one, And thou may'st lead him back,' With holy words and looks of love. From miseiy's thorny ti-ack. Forget not, too, that thou hast sinned, And sinful yet may be, Deal gently with the erring one. As God has dealt with thee. 118 SPEAK gently, it is better far To rule by love than fear ; Speak gently ! let not harsh words mar The good we might do here. Speak gently to the little child, Its love be sure to gain ; Teach it in accents soft and mild. It may not long remain. MISCELLAlsEOUS HYMNS. 125 Speak gently to the young, for they Will have enough to bear ; Pass through this life as best they may, 'T is full of anxious care. Speak gently to the aged one, Grieve not the care-worn heart : The sands of life are nearly run, Let such in peace depart ! Speak gently, kindly, to the poor, Let no harsh tones be heard ; They have enough they must endure, Without an imkind word. Speak gently to the erring ; know They may have toil'd in vain ; Perchance unkindness made them so, Oh ! win them back as-ain. Speak gently ; 't is a little thing Dropp'd in the heart's deep well ; The good, the joy which it may bring, Eternity shall tell. 11* MISCELLANEOUS HTSINS. 119 BE kind to eacli other, The night's coming on, When friend and when brother Alike may be gone ! Then 'midst our dejection, How sweet to have eam'd The blest recollection Of kindness returned. When day hath departed, And memory keeps Her watch, broken-hearted, Where all she loves sleeps — Let falsehood assail not, Nor envy disprove ; Let trifles prevail not Against those we love. Nor change with to-morrow, Should fortune take -wing ; But deeper the sorrow. The closer still cling ! Oh ! be kind to each other, The night's coming on. When friend and when brother Alike may be gone ! MISCELLANEOUS HYMKS. 127 120 A POOR way-faring man of grief, Hath often crossed me on my way, "Who sued so humbly for relief That I could never answer " Nay." I had not power to ask His name, "Whither He went, or whence He came ; Yet there was something in His eye That won my love, — I knew not why. Once when my scanty meal was spread, He entered, not a word He spake. Just perishing for want of bread, I gave Him all ; He blessed it, brake, And ate ; but gave me part again. Mine was an angel's portion then ; For while I fed with eager haste, That crust was manna to my taste. I spied Him where a fountain burst Clear from the rock ; His strength was gone ; The heedless water mocked His thirst ; He heard it, saw it hurrying on. I ran to raise the sufferer up ; Thrice from the stream He drained my cup, Dipped and returned it running o'er ; — I drank and never thirsted more. 128 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Stripped, -vvoimdcd, beaten nigh to death, I found Him by the highway side ; I roused His pulse, brought back His breath, Revived His spirit, and supplied Wine, oil, refreshment; He was healed. I had, myself, a wound concealed, But from that hour forgot the smart, And peace bound up my broken heart. In prison I saw Him next, condemned To meet a traitor's doom at morn ; The tide of lying tongues I stemmed, And honored Him 'midst shame and scorn. My friendship's utmost zeal to try. He asked if I for Him would die ; The flesh was weak, my blood ran chill. But the free spirit cried " x. will." Then in a moment, to my view, The stranger darted from disguise ; The tokens In His hands I knew — My Saviour stood before mine eyes. He spake ; and my poor name He named — " Of Me thou hast not been ashamed ; These deeds shall thy memorial be ; Fear not ! thou didst them unto Me." MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 139 121 IN the silent midniglit watches, List — thy bosom-door ! How it knocketh, knocketh, knocketh, Knocketh evermore ! Say not 'tis thy pulse 's beating, 'T is thy heart of sin ; 'T is thy baviour knocks and crieth Rise, and let Me in Death comes down with reckless footstep To the hall and hut ; Think you death will stand a-knocking Where the door is shut ? Jesus waiteth — waitcth — waiteth ; But til}' door is fast ! Giieved, away thy Saviour goeth ; Death breaks in at last. Then 't is thine to stand entreating Christ to let thee in ; At the gate of heaven beating. Waiting for thy sin. Nay alas ! thou foolish virgin. Hast thou then forgot, Jesus waited long to know thee, But He knowslhee not ! 130 miscell^\:neous hymns. 122 IN Genesis the world was made By God's creative hand ; In Exodus the Hebrews marched To gain the Promised Land ; Leviticus contains the law, Holy, and just, and good. KuMBEiis records the tribes enroll' d — All sons of Abraham's blood. Moses in Deuteronomy, Records God's mighty deeds. Brave Joshua into Canaan's land The host of Israel leads. In Judges their rebellion oft Provokes the Lord to smite, But Ruth records the faith of one Well pleasing in His sight. * In First and Second Samuel iJ\. 3 d-'^'U} Of Jesse's son we read. —' t/^''*'*/- Ten Tribes in First and Second Kings ■ ..Revolted from his seed. The First and Second Chronicles, See Judah captive made ; But Ezra leads a remnant back By princely Cyrus' aid. The city walls of Zion Nehemiah builds again, "Whilst Esther saves her people From plots of wicked men. In Job we read how faith will live Beneath affliction s rod, illSCELL.^JN'EOUS UYMIxS. 131 And David's Psalms are precious songs To every child of God. The Proverbs like a goodly string Of choicest pearls appear. EccLESiASTES teachcs man How vain are all things here. The mystic song of Solomon Exalts sweet Sharon's Rose ; Whilst Christ the Saviour and the King The " rapt Isaiah" shows. The warning Jeremiah — Apostate Israel scorns ; His plaintive Lamentations Thek awful doM'nfaH' mourns. EzEKiEL tells in wondrous words Of dazzling mysteries ; Whilst kings and empires yet to come, Daniel in vision sees. Of judgment and of mercy, HosEA loves to tell : Joel describes the blessed days When God with man shall dwell. Among Tekoa's herdsmen Amos received his call : Whilst Obadiah prophesies OfEdom's final fall. Jonah enshrines a wondrous type Of Christ our risen Lord ; JSIiCAH pronounces Judah lost — Lost, but again restored ; Nahum declares on Nineyeh Just judgment shaU be poured. A view of Chaldea's coming doom Habakkuk's visions give ; 183 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Next Zephaniah warns the Jews To turn, repent, and live. Haggai wrote to those who saw The Temple built again, And ZECHARLiH prophesied Of Christ's triumphant reign. Malachi was the last who touch'd The high prophetic chord ; Its final notes sublimely shew The coming of the Lord. Matthew and Mark, and Luke and John, The Holy Gospels wrote, Describing how the Saviour died — His life— and all He taught. Acts prove how God the Apostles owned With signs in every place : St. Paul, in Romans, teaches us How man is saved by grace. The Apostle, in Corinthians, Instructs, exhorts, reproves : Galatians shows that faith in Christ Akme the Father loves. Ephesians and Philippians tell What Christians ought to be : CoLossiANS bids us live to God And for eternity. In TnESSALO]s^iANS we are taught The Lord will come from heaven : In Timothy and Titus A bishop's rule is given. Philemon marks a Christian's love, Which only Christians know : MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 133 Hebrews reveals the Gospel Prefigured by the law. Jam:es teaches without holiness Faith is but vain and dead : And Peter points the narrow way In which the Saints are led. John in his three Epistles On love delights to dwell : An d JuDE gives awful warning Of judgment, wrath, and hell. The Revelation prophesies * Of that tremendous day, When Christ— and Christ alone shall be The trembling sinners' stay. 123 " I HEAR thee speak of the better land, Thou call'st its children a happy band ; Mother ! oh where is that radiant shore ? Shall we not seek it, and weep no more ? Is it where the flower of the orange blows, And tne fireflies dance on the myrtle boughs?" " Not there, not there, my child 1" *• Is it where the feathery pahri-trees rise, And the date grows ripe under sunny skies ? Or midst the green islands of glittering seas. Where fragrant forests perfume the breeze. And strange bright birds, on their starry wings, Bear the rich hues of all glorious things ?" *' Not there, not there, my childl" 1^ 134 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. " Is it far away, in some region old, Where rivers wander o'er sands of gold ? Where the burning rays of the ruby shine. And the diamond lights up the secret mine. And the pearl gleams forth from the coral strand ? Is it there sweet mother, that better land ?" " Not there, not there, my child !" " Eye hath not seen it my gentle boy ! Ear hath not heard its deep songs of joy ; Dreams cannot pictm*e a world so fair — Sorrow and death may not enter there ; Time hath not breathed on its fadeless bloom, For beyond the clouds, and beyond the tomb, It is there, it is there, my child !" 124 SUPPOSE the little cowslip Should hang its golden cup, And say "I'm such a tiny flower I'd better not grow up !" How many a weary traveller Would miss its fragrant smell. How many a little child would grieve To lose it from the dell ! Suj^pose the glistening dew-drop Lpon the grass should say, " What can a little dew-drop do ? I'd better roll away!" MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 135 The blade on wliich it rested, Before the day was done, Without a drop to moisten it. Would wither in the sun. Suppose the little breezes. Upon a summer's day. Should think themselves too small to cool The traveller on his way ; Who would miss the smallest And softest ones that blow, And think they made a great mistake, If they were talking so ! How many deeds of kindness A little child may do, Although it has so little strength, And little wisdom too. It wants a loving spirit. Much more than strength, to prove, How many things a child may do For others by his love. 125 NEVER stand in idleness In a world like ours ; Looking on while others toil, Heedless of thy powers. While thou hast a heart to feel Sympathy and love, And thy voice can lift a prayer To the Lord above : 136 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Say not thou hast naught to give, Naught to call thine own ; Xife's best pleasures do not spring From one source alone. 'T was the widow's mite which called Blessings from the Lord ; Not the lavish treasure thrown From the rich man's hoard. Give the weak a helping hand ; Nerve him by thy might ; Gently lead the erring one Back to paths of right. With the mourner shed a tear, Smile thou with the gay ; Help the weary bear his load ; Cheer his lonely way. Ne'er be idle, when thy hand Hath the power to bless ; Nor be silent when thy voice Might console distress. Follow in thy Master's steps- Tread the path He trod ; Ever with untiring zeal Working for thy God. MISCELLANEOUS HYilNS. 13? 126 'TIS not in temples made with hands, The great Creator dwells, But on the mountain-top He stands, And in the lowly dells ; Wherever fervent prayer is heard. He stands, recording every word ; In dell, on mountain, every where. He never fails to answer prayer. Yes — in the poor man's lowly stall, And in the prisoners' cells, And in the rich man's lordly hall, The great Creator dwells ; Where two or three are joined in prayer, His Audience Hall, His House is there. Wherever prays the child of grace, Is His peculiar dwelling place. Think you that temples built of stone, And blessed by priestly hand, Are more peculiarly His'own, More reverence demand ? Go Id tliy closet — shut the door, And all iby mercies ponder o'er. Thine all-pervading God is there : He loves to answer secret prayer. 12* 138 MISCELLANEOUS HYlMIsS. The temple thy Creator owns, That ternple is the heart ; No towering piles of costly stones, Nor any work of art, — The cloucl-capt spire, that points on high, May draw lightning from the sky, But 't is the humble, modest flower, That driuketh the refreshing shower ; And in return for favors given, It breathes its fragrance back to heaven. ^ 127 I WAS a wandering sheep ; I did not love the fold, I did not love my Shepherd's voice, I would not be controlled. I was a wayward child, I did not love my home, I did not love my Father's voice, I loved afar to roam. The Shepherd sought His sheep, The Father sought His child ; They followed me o'er vale and hill, O'er deserts waste and wild. They found me nigh to death, Famished and faint, and lone ; They bound me with the bonds of love, They saved the wandering one ! MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 139 They spoke in tender love, They raised my drooping head, They gently closed my bleeding womids, My fainting soul they fed. They washed my filth away, They made me clean and fair, They brought me to my home in peace, The lon":-souo:ht wanderer. Jesus my Shepherd is ! 'T was He that loved my soul, 'T was He that washed me in His blood, 'T was He that made me whole. 'Twas He that sought the lost. That found the wandering sheep, 'T was He that brought me to the fold, 'T is He that still doth keep. I was a wandering sheep, 1 would not be controlled ; But now I love my Shepherd's voice, I love, I love the fold I I was a wayward child, I once preferred to roam ; But now I love my Father's voice, I love, I love His home 1 ,f^ ^t/v*^- 140 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 128 WHY thus longing, thus forever sighing, For the far-off, unattained and dim, While the beautiful, all around thee lying, Offers up its low perpetual hymn. Would' st thou listen to its gentle teaching, All thy restless yearnings it would still ; Leaf and flower and laden bee are preaching Thine own sphere, though humble, first to fill. Poor indeed thou must be, if around thee Thou no ray of light and joy canst throw — If no silken cord of love hath bound thee To some little world of weal and woe. If no dear eyes thy fond lore can brighten — No fond voices answer to thine own ; If no brother's sorrow thou canst lighten. By daily sympathy and gentle tone. Not by deeds that win the crowd's applauses. Not by works that give thee world renown. Not by martyrdom or vaunted crosses. Canst thou win and wear the immortal crown. Daily struggling, though unloved and lonely. Every day a rich reward will give ; Thou wilt find, by hearty striving only, And truly loving, thou canst truly live. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 141 129 ") THOUGH glorious, O God, must Thy temple have been On the day of its first dedication, When the cherubim wings widely waving were seen On high o'er the ark's holy station ; When even the chosen of Levi, though skill'd To minister standing before Thee, Retired from the cloud which Thy temple then fill'd, And Thy gloiy made Israel adore Thee ; Though awful indeed was Thy majesty then ; Yet the worship thy gospel discloses, Less splendid in show to the vision of men, Surpasses the ritual of Moses. And by whom was that ritual forever repeal'd, But by Him unto whom it was given To enter the oracle where is reveal'd, Not the cloud, but the brightness of heaven ? Who, having once enter'd, hath shown us the way, O Lord, how to worship before Thee ; Not with sliadowy forms of tnat earlier day, But in soirit and truth to adore Thee. 142 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. This, this is the worship Messiah made known, When she of Samaria found Him, By the patriarch's well sitting weary, alone, "With the stillness of noontide around Him. •' Woman believe me, the hour is near, When He, if you rightly would hail Him, U'ill neither be worshipp'd exclusively ^ere. Nor yet at the altar of Salem. " For God is a Spirit ! and they who «ii^TC h^^'^y'''' Would do the pure worship He loveth " In the heart's holy temple, will seek with delight That spirit the Father appro veth." And many that prophecy's truth can declare, Whose bosoms have livingly known it ; Whom God has instructed to worship Him there, And convinced that His mercy will own it. The temple that Solomon built to His name, Exists but in name and in storj'- ; Extinguish'd long since is that altar's bright flame. And vanish' d each glimpse of its gloiy. But the Christian, made wise by a wisdom Divine, Though all human fabrics may falter, Still finds in his heart a far holier shrine, Where the fire biu:ns unquench'd on the altar. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 143 130 THERE'S not a tint that paints the rose, Or decks the lily fair, Or streaks the humblest flower that blows, But God has placed it there. At early dawn there 's not a gale Across the landscape driven, And not a breeze that sweeps the vale, That is not sent by heaven. There 's not of grass a single blade, Or leaf of lovliest green. Where heavenly skill is not displayed, And heavenly wisdom seen. There's not a tempest, dark and dread, Or storm that rends the air, Or blast that sweeps the ocean's bed, But God's owTi voice is there. Around, beneath, below, above, Wherever space extends, There God displays His boundless love, And power with mercy blends. 144 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 131 ONE sweet flower has drooped and faded, One loved scholar's voice has fled One fair brow the grave has shaded, One dear schoolmate now is dead. Why should we feel thouglits of sadness ? For our friend is happy now ; She has knelt in soul-felt gladness, Where the blessed angels bow. She has gone to heaven before us, But she turns and waves her hand, Pointing to the glories o'er us, In that happy spirit land. May our footsteps never falter In the path that she has trod May we worship at the altar Of the CTeat and livina: God. Lord, may angels watch above us. Keep us all from error free — May they guard, and guide and love us, Till, like her, we go to Thee. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 145 132 BEHOLD a Stranger at the door! He gently knocks — has knocked before — Has waited long — is waiting still : You treat no other friend so ill. Oh lovely attitude ! He stands With melting heart and open hands ! Oh, matchless kindness ! and He shows This matchless kindness to His foes ! But will He prove a friend indeed ? He will ; — the very friend you need ; The Friend of sinners ; yes, 't is He, With garments dyed on Calvary. Admit Him ere His anger burn ; Lest He depart, and ne'er return; Admit Him, or the hour's at hand, When, at His door, denied you'll stand. 133 KIND words can never die : Heaven gave them birth ; Wing'd with a smile, they fly All o'er the earth. Kind words the angels brought. Kind words our Saviour taught, — Sweet melodies of thought 1 Who knows their worth ? 13 146 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Kind deeds can never die : Tlion^h weak and small, From His bright throne on high God sees them all : He doth reward with love, All those that faithful prove ; Round them where'er they move, Rich blessings fall. God's word can never die : Though fallen man Oft dares its truth deny, — Dares it in vain. God's word alone is pure ; His promises are sm-e ; Trust Him, and rest secure Heaven you shall gain. Our souls can never die : God's word we trust ; He to our bodies said, " Dust unto dust." Saviour, our souls prepare. Thy happy home to share, Us to Thy mansions bear When life is past. 134 LET us love one another. Not long may we stay In this brief world of mourning, so brief is life's day; Some fade ere 't is noon, and few linger till eve ; Oh, there breaks not a heart but leaves some one to grieve. MISCELLANEOUS HTiCSrS. 147 And the fondest, the purest, the truest, that met, Ever still found the need to forgive and forget ; Then, oh, though the hopes that vre nourish d decay, Let us love one another as long as we may. Thus we '11 love one another 'midst sorrow the worst, Unalter'd and fond as we loved at the first : Though the false wing of pleasure may change and forsake, And the bright urn of wealth into particles break. There are some sweet affections that earth cannot buy, That cling but the closer when sorrow draws nigh, And remain with us yet though all else pass away : Yes, we '11 love one another as long as we stay. 135 O TURN that little foot aside, Nor crush beneath its tread The smallest insect of the earth, "Which has from God its bread. If He who made the universe Looks down in kindest love, To shape an humble thing like this, From His high throne above, 148 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. Thou shouldst not dare in wontonness That creature's life destroy, Nor give a pang to any thing That He has made for joy. My child, begin in little things To act the gentle part ; For God will turn His love away From the cruel, selfish heart. 136 OH stay not thy hands when the winter winds rude, Blow cold through the dwelling of want and des- pair, To ask if misfortune has come to the good, Or if folly has wrought the wreck that is there. When the heart-stricken wanderer asks thee for bread, In suffering he bows to necessity's laws ; Wlien the wife moans in sadness, the children unfed, The cup must be bitter — oh ask not the cause. When the Saviour of men raised His finger to heal, Did He ask if the sufferer were Gentile or Jew ? When the tliousands were fed with the bountiful meal. Did lie ffive it alone to the faitliful and few? MISCELLANEOUS HYUINS. 149 O scan not too closely the frailties of those Whose bosoms may bleed on a cold winter's day, But give to the friendless who tells thee his woes, And from Him that would borrow, O turn not away 137 BEYOND this life of hopes and fears, Beyond this world of griefs and tears, There is a region fair. It knows no change, and no decay, No night, but one unending day ; O say, will you be there ? Its glorious gates are closed to sin, Naught that defiles can enter in, To mar its beauty rare. Upon that bright, eternal shore, Earth's bitter curse is known no more ; O say, will you be there ? No drooping form, no tearful eye, No hoary head, no weary sigh ; No pain, no grief, no care ; But joys which mortals may not know, Like a calm river ever flow ; O say, will you be there ? 13* 150 MISCELLANEOUS nYiTNS. Our Saviour, once a mortal child, As mortal man, by man reviled. There many crowns doth wear. While thousand thousands swell the stram Of glory, to the Lamb once slain ! O say, will you be there ? Who shall be there? The lowly here, All those who serve the Lord in fear, The world's proud mockery dare f Who by the Holy Spirit led. Rejoice the narrow path to tread ; — These, these shall all be there ! Those who have learned at Jesus' cross All earthly gain to count but loss, So that His love thej^ share. Who, gazing on the Crucified, By faith can say, " For me He died." These, these, shall all be there. 138 I SAW a little blade of grass, Just peeping from the sod. And asked it why it sought to pass Beyond its present clod. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 151 It seemed to raise its tioy head, All sparkling, fresh and bright ; And wondering at the question, said " I rise to seek the light." I asked the eagle why his wing To ceaseless flight was given, As if he spurned each earthly thing. And knew no home but heaven ? He answered, as he fixed his gaze, Undazzled at the sight. Upon the sun's meridian blaze, " I rise to seek the light." I asked my soul, what means this thirst, For something yet beyond ; What means this eagerness to burst From every earthly bond ? It answers, and I feel it glow. With fires more warm, more bright, " All is too dull, too dark below, I rise to seek the light." 152 MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. y 139 HARK ! ye neighbors, and hear me tell, Ten now strikes on the nightly bell ; Ten are the holy commandments, given To man below from God in heaven. Human watch from harm can 't ward us, God will watch, and God will guard us, He, through His eternal might, Grant us all a blessed nio-ht. Hark ! ye neighbors, and hear me tell, Eleven sounds on the nightly bell ; Eleven apostles of holy mind Taught the gospel to mankind. Human watch, &c. Hark ! ye neighbors, and hear me tell, Twelve resounds from the nightly bell ; Twelve disciples to Jesus came Who suflfered rebuke for the Saviour's name. Human watch, &c. Hark ! ye neighbors, and hear me tell, One has pealed on the nightly bell ; One God above, one Lord indeed. Who bears us up in hour of need. Human watch, &c. MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS. 153 Hark ! ye neighbors, and hear me tell, Two now rings from the nightly bell ; Two paths before mankind are free : Neighbor ! choose the best for thee. Human watch, &c. Hark ! ye neighbors, and hear me tell, Three now somids on the nightly bell ; Three-fold reigns the heavenly host, Father, Son and Holy Ghost. 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