6, 8 6, 8 6, irregular

6, 8 6, 8 6, irregular

FATHER, I know that all my life Is portioned out for me, And the changes that are sure to come I do not fear to see; But I ask thee for a present mind, Intent on pleasing thee.

I ask thee for a thoughtful love, Through constant watching wise, To meet the glad with joyful smiles, And wipe the weeping eyes; And a heart at leisure from itself, To soothe and sympathize.

I would not have the restless will That hurries to and fro, Seeking for some great thing to do Or secret thing to know; I would be treated as a child, And guided where I go.

Wherever in the world I am, In whatsoe'er estate, I have a fellowship with hearts To keep and cultivate; And a work of lowly love to do For the Lord on whom I wait.

So I ask thee for the daily strength, To none that ask denied, And a mind to blend with outward life, Still keeping at thy side; Content to fill a little space If thou be glorified.

And if some things I do not ask In my cup of blessing be; I would have my spirit filled the more With grateful love to thee, And careful less to serve thee much Than to please thee perfectly.

There are briers besetting every path, That call for patient care; There is a cross in every lot, And a constant need for prayer; Yet a lowly heart, that leans on thee, Is happy anywhere.

In a service which thy will appoints There are no bonds for me; For my inmost soul is taught the truth That makes thy children free; And a life of self-renouncing love Is a life of liberty.