The Presbyterian Hymnal: Hymns, Psalms, and Spiritual Songs

396

O for a Closer Walk with God

1.  O for a closer walk with God,
    A calm and heavenly frame,
    A light to shine upon the road 
    That leads me to the Lamb!

2.  Return, O holy Dove, return,
    Sweet messenger of rest!
    I hate the sins that made Thee mourn
    And drove Thee from my breast.

3.  The dearest idol I have known,
    Whate'er that idol be,
    Help me to tear it from Thy throne,
    And worship only Thee.

4.  So shall my walk be close with God,
    Calm and serene my frame;
    So purer light shall mark the road
    That leads me to the Lamb.

WORDS: William Cowper, 1772
MUSIC: Scottish Psalter, 1635 Harm. The English Hymnal, 1906; alt.
Scripture: Psalm 51:12 Psalms 139:23-24
Theme: Life in Christ