Scripture Verse

I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth as long as the wicked are in my presence. Psalm 39:1

Introduction

portrait
François H. Barthélémon (1741–1808)

Words: Is­aac Watts, The Psalms of Da­vid 1719. Watch­ful­ness ov­er the tongue; or, pru­dence and zeal.

Music: Bal­ler­ma Fran­çois H. Bar­thé­lé­mon (1741–1808). Adapt­ed by Ro­bert Simp­son in A Se­lect­ion of Or­ig­in­al Sac­red Mu­sic, 1833 (🔊 pdf nwc).

If you know where to get a good pic­ture of Simpson (head & shoul­ders, at least 200×300 pix­els), or a bet­ter one of Bar­thé­lé­mon,

portrait
Isaac Watts (1674–1748)

Lyrics

Thus I resolved before the Lord,
Now will I watch my tongue;
Lest I let slip one sinful word,
Or do my neighbor wrong.

And if I’m e’er constrained to stay
With men of lives profane,
I’ll set a double guard that day,
Nor let my talk be vain.

I’ll scarce allow my lips to speak
The pious thoughts I feel,
Lest scoffers should th’ occasion take
To mock my holy zeal.

Yet if some proper hour appear,
I’ll not be overawed,
But let the scoffing sinners hear
That we can speak for God.