Classic Poem

God ! be merciful to me,
For my spirit trusts in Thee,
And to Thee, her refuge, springs:
Be the shadow of thy wings
Round the trembling sinner cast,
Till the storm is overpast.

From the water-floods that roll
Deep and deeper round my soul,
Me, thine arm almighty take,
For thy loving-kindness' sake:
If thy truth from me depart,
Thy rebuke would break my heart.

Foes increase, they close me round,
Friend nor comforter is found;
Sore temptations now assail,
Hope, and strength, and courage fail;
Turn not from thy servant's grief,
Hasten, Lord! to my relief.

Poor and sorrowful am I;
Set me, O my God! on high:
Wonders Thou for me hast wrought;
Nigh to death my soul is brought;
Save me, Lord! in mercy save,
Lest I sink below the grave.