Scripture Verse

Through patience and comfort of the scriptures we may have hope. Romans 15:4

Introduction

Words: John H. An­ke­tell, Gos­pel and Epi­stle Hymns for the Chris­tian Year (New York: Church Re­cord Com­pa­ny, 1889), num­ber 2.

Music: Co­ro­nae Will­iam H. Monk, 1871 (🔊 pdf nwc).

If you know where to get a good pho­to of An­ke­tell (head & shoul­ders, at least 200×300 pix­els),

portrait
William H. Monk (1823–1889)

Lyrics

Lord, Thy Word abideth ever,
Swift to succor, sure to save,
If with faith’s supreme endeavor
We Thy promised mercy crave:
Let its glo­ry
Light the darkness of the grave!

Sweetest peace and consolation
Dwell for ever in that word;
For its tidings of sal­va­tion
Tell us of a promised Lord,
Throned in Hea­ven,
By angelic hosts adored.

There the prophet’s glowing vision
Shows the joy of latter days;
There the wise man’s just decision
Guides our feet o’er earth’s dark ways;
All its pages
Shine with truth’s immortal rays.

There we read the wondrous story
Of the Babe of Bethlehem,
Crucified, but crowned with glo­ry,
Promised rod of Jesse’s stem;
Soon to meet us,
Decked with royal diadem.

Lord, be this our consolation,
When earth’s joy shall pass away;
In death’s hour of tribulation,
In the awful judg­ment day:
Heavens may vanish,
But Thy Word shall stand for aye!