How, in the inmost soul,
Do thoughts, desires have birth?
Own they no just controul,
Are they of heaven, or earth;

As chance, or outward things
Do bid them come and go?
Can none controul the springs
Of his own joy, or woe?

Yes: ours the power of prayer
To Him, who rules within;
Whose sway extends e'en there,
Where thoughts, desires begin.

God's eye doth there behold
The thoughts of every mind;
The heart's desire untold,
The purpose, but designed.

And He can cleanse the heart
From every guilty stain;
And Peace and Power impart,
That ever will remain.

Lord, give us strength to pray,
To fix the wandering thought;
Till we have learned thy perfect way,
And unto Thee are brought.