Joy in God.
Phil. c. 4, v. 4.
“Rejoice ye always in the Lord,
Rejoice again, I say rejoice!”
What words of triumph, sounds of cheer,
As sweet as from a seraph’s voice!
Although temptations reign on earth,
Deep sorrows pierce, and losses pain,
Yet christians oft with holy mirth
May cheerfully rejoice again.
A heart replete with steadfast hope,
Illumed by faith serene and bright,
And warmed with holy love, will make
All earth’s afflictions short and light.
As sunshine spreading o’er the land,
Makes all creation seem more fair,
So God a higher honour gains
When happy looks his people wear.
Give us, O God, bright faith and love,
That we may praise with cheerful voice,
And hastening to glad realms above,
In thee may evermore rejoice.