1 While men grow bold in wicked ways! And yet a God they own, My heart within me often says, "Their thoughts believe there's none."
2 Their thoughts and ways at once declare (Whate'er their lips profess) God hath no wrath for them to fear, Nor will they seek his grace.
3 What strange self-flattery blinds their eyes! But there's an hastening hour When they shall see with sore surprise The terrors of thy power.
4 Thy justice shall maintain its throne, Tho' mountains melt away; Thy judgments are a world unknown, A deep unfathom'd sea.
5 Above the heavens' created rounds, Thy mercies, Lord, extend; Thy truth outlives the narrow bounds, Where time and nature end.
6 Safety to man thy goodness brings, Nor overlooks the beast; Beneath the shadow of thy wings Thy children choose to rest.
7 [From thee, when creature-streams run low, And mortal comforts die, Perpetual springs of life shall flow, And raise our pleasures high.
8 Tho' all created light decay, And death close up our eyes Thy presence makes eternal day Where clouds can never rise.]