Psalms 85-87

Psalm 85

1 SALVATION is for ever nigh The souls that fear and trust the Lord And grace, descending from on high, Fresh hopes of glory shall afford.

2 Mercy and truth on earth are met, Since Christ the Lord came down from heaven; By His obedience, so complete, Justice is pleased, and peace is given.

3 Now truth and honour shall abound, Religion dwell on earth again; And heavenly influence bless the ground In our Redeemer's gentle reign.

4 His righteousness is gone before, To give us free access to God; Our wandering feet shall stray no more, But mark His steps, and keep the road.

Isaac Watts, 1719.

Psalm 86

1 THY listening ear, O Lord, incline:

Hear me, my God, 'distresse'd and weak I Preserve my soul, for I am Thine;

Oh save me, for Thine aid I seek!

2 To Thee ascend my daily cries:

Hear, Lord, in mercy hear my voice! To Thee my soul for comfort flies, Oh bid Thy servant's soul rejoice.

3 'Tis Thine in goodness to abound;

'Tis Thine to pity and forgive;

'Tis Thine to heal the bleeding wound, And grant the plaintive soul to live.

4 Hear, O Jehovah, when I pray!

Attend my voice, my suppliant cry!

I call Thee in affliction's day, For Thou wilt listen, Thou reply.

5 And Thee my heart shall still extol, Thy goodness chant, Thy praises tell: For large Thy love; and Thou ray soul Hast rescued from the lowest hell.

Richard Mant, 1824.

Psalm 87

1 GOD in His earthly temple lays Foundations for His heavenly praise;

He likes the tents of Jacob well, But still in Zion loves to dwell.

2 His mercy visits every house That pay their night and morning vows; But makes a more delightful stay Where churches meet to praise and pray.

3 What glories were described of old I What wonders are of Zion told I Thou city of our God below, Thy fame shall Tyre and Egypt know!

4 Egypt and Tyre, and Greek and Jew, Shall there begin their lives anew:

Angels and men shall join to sing The hill where living waters spring.

5 When God makes up His last account Of natives in His holy mount, 'Twill be an honour to appear As one new-born or nourish'd there.

Isaac Watts, 1719.