The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light.
Exodus 13:21
Words: Benjamin Beddome, in the Bristol Collection of Ash & Evans, 1769, number 80.
Music: Uxbridge Lowell Mason, 1830 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tunes:
When Israel through the desert passed,
A fiery pillar went before;
Their guide by night through all the waste
From Egypt quite to Canaan’s shore.
Such is Thy glorious Word, O God,
’Tis for our light and guidance giv’n;
It sheds its luster all abroad
And points the path to bliss and Heav’n.
It fills the soul with sweet delight,
And quickens its inactive powers;
Sets all our wandering footsteps right,
Displays Thy love, and kindles ours.
Its promises rejoice our hearts,
Its doctrines are divinely true;
Knowledge and pleasure it imparts,
Yields comfort and instruction, too.
Ye favored lands that have this Word,
[Originally, Ye British isles, who have this word]
Ye saints who feel its saving power,
Your efforts join with one accord,
To send it forth to every shore.