O for a closer walk with God!

A calm and heavenly frame!

A light to shine upon the road

That leads me to the Lamb!

2 Where is the blessedness I knew

When first I saw the Lord?

Where is the soul-refreshing view

Of Jesus and his word?

3 What peaceful hours I once enjoyed!

How sweet their memory still!

But they have left an aching void

The world can never fill.

4 Return, O holy Dove, return,

Sweet messenger of rest;

I hate the sins that made thee mourn,

And drove thee from my breast.

5 The dearest idol I have known,

Whate’er that idol be,

Help me to tear it from thy throne,

And worship only thee.

6 So shall my walk be close with God,

Calm and serene my frame;

So purer light shall mark the road

That leads me to the Lamb.