86. C. M. Bp. Heber. "The Seed is the Word of God."

1 O God, by whom the seed is given,
By whom the harvest blest;
Whose word, like manna showered from heaven
Is planted in our breast.

2 Preserve it from the passing feet,
And plunderers of the air;
The sultry sun's intenser heat,
And weeds of worldly care!

3 Though buried deep, or thinly strewn,
Do thou thy grace supply:
The hope in earthly furrows sown
Shall ripen in the sky.