James Montgomery

The Law and the Testimonies. -- Ps. xix.

Thy law is perfect, Lord of light!

Thy testimonies sure,

The statutes of Thy realm are right,

And thy commandments pure.

Holy, inviolate Thy fear,

Enduring as Thy throne:

Thy judgments, chastening or severe,

Justice and truth alone: --

More prized than gold, -- than gold whose waste

Refining fire expels;

Sweeter than honey to my taste,

Than honey from the cells.

Let these, O God! my soul convert;

And make Thy servant wise;

Let these be gladness to my heart,

The day-spring to mine eyes.

By these may I be warn'd betimes;

Who knows the guilt within?

Lord, save me from presumptuous crimes,

Cleanse me from secret sin!

So may the words my lips express,

The thoughts that throng my mind,

O Lord, my strength and righteousness!

With Thee acceptance find.