Gently, gently lay thy rod

On my sinful head, O God!

Stay thy wrath, in mercy stay,

Lest I sink beneath its sway.

2 Heal me, for my flesh is weak;

Heal me, for thy grace I seek;

This my only plea I make—

Heal me for thy mercy’s sake.

3 Who, within the silent grave,

Shall proclaim thy power to save?

Lord! my sinking soul reprieve;

Speak, and I shall rise and live.

4 Lo! he comes—he heeds my plea!

Lo! he comes—the shadows flee;

Glory round me dawns once more!

Rise, my spirit, and adore!