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.