Naked as from the earth we came,

and entered life at first;

Naked we to the earth return,

and mix with kindred dust.

Whate’er we fondly call our own

belongs to heav’n’s great Lord;

The blessings lent us for a day

are soon to be restored.

’Tis God that lifts our comforts high,

or sinks them in the grave:

He gives; and, when he takes away,

he takes but what he gave.

Then, ever blessed be his name!

his goodness swelled our store;

His justice but resumes its own;

’tis ours still to adore.