My harp untuned, and laid aside, (To cheerful hours the harp belongs) My cruel foes, insulting cried, “Come, sing us one of Zion’s songs.” | Alas! when sinners, blindly bold, At Zion scoff, and Zion’s King; When zeal declines, and love grows cold, Is this a day for me to sing? | Time was, whene’er the saints I met, With joy and praise my bosom glowed; But now, like Eli, sad I sit, And tremble for the ark of God. | While thus to grief my soul gave way, To see the work of GOD decline; Methought I heard my Savior say, “Dismiss thy fears, the ark is mine. | Though for a time I hide my face, Rely upon my love and pow’r; Still wrestle at a throne of grace, And wait for a reviving hour. | Take down thy long neglected harp, I’ve seen thy tears, and heard thy prayer; The winter season has been sharp, But spring shall all its wastes repair.” | LORD, I obey, my hopes revive, Come join with me, ye saints, and sing; Our foes in vain against us strive; For God will help and healing bring. | |