Thus will I bless Thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in Thy name.
Psalm 63:4
Words: Grace Aguilar (1816–1847).
Music: Epstein A. Epstein, in The Army and Navy Hymnal (New York: Century Company, 1921), page 396 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know Epstein’s full name, or where to get a good photo of him (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
I bless Thee, Father, for the grace
Thou me this day hast given,
Strengthening my soul to seek Thy face
And list the theme of Heaven.
I bless Thee that each workday care
Thy love has lulled to rest,
And every thought whose wing is prayer
Thine answering word hath blessed.
O ’tis as some reviving dew
Were o’er each sorrow stealing,
Folding in Heaven’s azure hue
Each dark and weary feeling.
Come, then if, God, ’tis Thy decree,
My workday thoughts feel care,
The day of rest is still for me
Thy presence then to share.