8.6.8.6
James Montgomery
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.