Then, though by friends out-cast,
Thy hand would hold me fast,
And draw me near to Thee, my King and Lord!
Fain would my heart come nigh
To Thee, O God, on high,
But evil thoughts have led me far astray
From the pure path of righteous government.
Guide Thou me back into Thy holy way,
And count me not as one impenitent.
O would that I might be