Morning Prayer
O Lord! my life was known to Thee
Ere Thou hadst caused me yet to be,
Thy Spirit ever dwells in me.
Could I, cast down by Thee, have gained
A standing place, or, if restrained
By Thee, go forth with feet unchained?
Hear me, Almighty, while I pray,
My thoughts are in Thy hand alway,
Be to my helplessness a stay!
Oh! may this hour Thy favor yield,
And may I tread life's battle-field
Encompassed by Thy mercy's shield.
Wake me at dawn Thy name to bless,
And in Thy sanctuary's recess
To praise and laud Thy holiness.
Jehuda Halevi.