To Thee O God My Prayer Ascends


To thee, O God! my pray’r ascends,
But not for golden stores;
Nor covet I the brightest gems
On the rich eastern shores:

Nor that deluding empty joy
Men call a mighty name,
Nor greatness with its pride and state,
My restless thoughts inflame:–

Nor pleasure’s fascinating charms
My fond desires allure:
But nobler things than these, from thee,
My wishes would secure.

The faith and hope of joys to come
My best affections move;
Thy light, thy favor, and thy smiles,
Thine everlasting love.

These are the blessings I desire:
Lord, be these blessings mine!
And all the glories of the world
I cheerfully resign.