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William Cowper (1731-1800)

The Contrite Heart

William Cowper (1731-1800)
Verse 1
The Lord will happiness divine On contrite hearts bestow; Then tell me, gracious God, is mine A contrite heart or no?
Verse 2
I hear, but seem to hear in vain, Insensible as steel; If aught is felt, 'tis only pain, To find I cannot feel.
Verse 3
I sometimes think myself inclined To love Thee if I could; But often feel another mind, Averse to all that's good.
Verse 4
My best desires are faint and few, I fain would strive for more; But when I cry, " My strength renew!" Seem weaker than before.
Verse 5
Thy saints are comforted, I know, And love Thy house of prayer; I therefore go where others go, But find no comfort there.
Verse 6
Oh make this heart rejoice or ache; Decide this doubt for me; And if it be not broken, break, And heal it, if it be.

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