197. O for a closer walk with God
William Cowper, 1731-1800
A tender, beautiful hymn, in use wherever English is spoken.
It was published in the Olney Hymns (See [60]) under the title “Walking with God.” It is based on Genesis 5:24: “Enoch walked with God.” The hymn was written December 9, 1769, during the serious illness of the poet’s dear friend, the wife of Rev. Morley Unwin, in whose home he stayed and found the tenderest of care during his own illness. Concerning her, Cowper wrote in a letter the day following the composition of this hymn:
She is the chief of blessings I have met with in my journey since the Lord was pleased to call me.... Her illness has been a sharp trial to me. Oh, that it may have a sanctified effect, that I may rejoice to surrender up to the Lord my dearest comforts, the moment He may require them.... I began to compose the verses yesterday morning before daybreak but fell asleep at the end of the first two lines: when I awaked again, the third and fourth were whispered to my heart in a way which I have so often experienced.
For comments on William Cowper see [Hymn 60].
MUSIC. BELMONT is an adaptation from a melody in Sacred Melodies ... adapted to the best English poets, Vol. I; 1812, by William Gardiner. The Sacred Melodies appeared in six volumes containing tunes by the best masters, adapted to English words.
The composer, William Gardiner, 1770-1853, was an English stocking manufacturer who travelled extensively at home and abroad, principally in the interests of his business, but also making acquaintance with musicians of all ranks and with their music. He published songs and duets of his own composition in his youth, over the nom de plume of “W. G. Leicester.” His Sacred Melodies, referred to above, did valuable service in drawing attention to many fine compositions otherwise unknown.