The Whole Book of Psalms ‎#XIX

XIX. The heav'ns and firmament on high

1 The heav'ns and firmament on high
do wondrously declare
God's glory and omnipotence,
his works and what they are.

2 The wondrous works of God appear
by ev'ry day's success,
The nights likewise which their race run
the self-same thing express.

3 There is no language, tongue, or speech,
where their sound is not heard;
In all the earth and coasts thereof
their knowledge is conferr'd.

4 In them the Lord made for the sun
a place of great renown,
who like a bridegroom ready trimm'd
comes from his chamber down;

5 And as a valiant champion,
who would to honour rise,
With joy doth haste to take in hand
some noble enterprize:

6 And all the sky from end to end
he compasseth about;
Nothing can hide if from his heat,
but he will find it out.

7 How perfect is the law of God!
his covenant is sure,
Converting souls, and making wise
the simple and obscure.

8 The Lord's commands are righteous, and
rejoice the heart likewise;
His precepts are most pure, and do
give light unto the eyes.

9 The fear of God is excellent,
and ever doth endure;
The judgments of the Lord also,
most righteous are and pure;

10 And more to be desired are
than much fine gold alway;
The honey and the honey-comb
are not so sweet as they.

11 By them thy servant is forewarn'd
to have God in regard,
And in performance of the same
there shall be great reward.

12 But, Lord! what earthly man doth know
the errors of his life?
Then cleanse me from my secret sins,
which are in me most rife:

13 And keep me that presumptuous sins
prevail not over me;
And so shall I be innocent,
and great offences flee.

14 Accept my mouth and heart also,
my words and thoughts each one;
For my Redeemer and my strength,
O Lord, thou art alone.

Text Information

• First Line: The heav'ns and firmament on high
• Author: T. S.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1790
• Scripture:
  Psalm 19

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