I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
Psalm 34:1
Words: John S. Howson, circa 1880. According to a note in a family manuscript, the hymn was written during a time of deep depression in a nervous breakdown.
Music: Pastor Bonus Alfred J. Caldicott (1841–1897) (🔊 pdf nwc).
At all times praise the Lord;
His promises are sure;
What if thou doubt? His steadfast Word
Unchanging shall endure.
Praise Him when skies are bright,
And gladness fills thy days;
Heav’n shames thee with its glorious light,
And calls thee to His praise.
Praise Him when clouds are dark;
True faith waits not to prove;
Tho’ hope no bright’ning gleam may mark,
His meaning still is love.
Praise Him when drear and lone
The shadows ’round thee fall,
No eye upon Thy sins but One—
Fear not, He pardons all.
Praise Him when home is sweet,
As tho’ we ne’er should part;
But pray—while kindred spirits meet—
Pray for a thoughtful heart.
Praise Him when far away
On mountain or on sea;
Each place is home to them who pray;
The Father guardeth thee.
Praise Him when joyful songs
The saints on earth unite,
In sacred chorus, with the throngs
Of angels in the height.
At all times praise the Lord;
His promises are sure;
Fear not, doubt not; His steadfast Word
Unchanging shall endure.