Psalm XIX

The heavens declare their Maker's glorious name;
The spacious firmament's extended frame,
And all the shining wonders it displays,
Proclaim the God, and teach the world his praise.
Each rising day repeats instructive songs,
And closing night the wonderous theme prolongs:
Nor speech nor language wants the sacred strain;
'Tis nature's harmony, nor tun'd in vain.

Delightful musick! here the heaven-taught mind
Sweetness beyond the reach of sounds can find.
Through all the world the sacred lines are spread,
And all th' remotest ends may wondering read.
From hence the rising sun his light displays,
And glads all nature with his cheerful rays.

So the young bridegroom on his nuptial day
Exulting smiles, and all the scene is gay.
Like sportive youth contending in the race,
When joyful ardour paints the glowing face,
With rapid speed, now from the radiant east
His race begins, now gains the distant west;
Each deep recess his piercing beams explore,
And nature owns his all-enlivening power.

But with diviner beams, the sacred word
Shines o'er the soul, and guides it to the Lord.
Unerring guide, which heavenly light supplies,
Transforms the heart, and makes the simple wise.
In God's commands see truth and goodness join!
Immortal rectitude is every line.

'Tis here celestial light and knowledge flows,
And nobler joy than all creation knows.
That pure devotion which his fear inspires,
To him its sacred source directs its fires.
His precepts with eternal splendour shine,
All spotless truth, and righteousness divine.

Immortal treasure! all the glittering store
Of golden mines, compar'd to these, how poor!
Here heavenly food abounds, divine repast!
More sweet than honey to the longing taste:
Here gentle admonitions warn my heart,
When my frail steps would from thy way depart.

Obedience to thy laws, my sovereign Lord,
Brings peace and joy, an ample rich reward.
The errors of the heart, ah, who can trace?
Lord, I implore thy purifying grace;
Preserve thy servant from each wilful stain,
From sin's destructive power and hateful reign:
Then shall my life be right, my heart sincere,
And free from deadly guilt, adore thy care.

Let these petitions of my lips arise,
Warm from my heart accepted in thine eyes;
Propitious hear the humble suit I bring,
O Lord, my strength, my Saviour and my king.