Scripture Verse

Fools, because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted. Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death. Psalm 107:17–18

Introduction

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James Montgomery (1771–1854)
National Portrait Gallery

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Words: James Mont­go­me­ry, Songs of Zi­on 1822.

Music: Hein­lein Nürn­berg­isch­es Ge­sang­buch, 1676. Me­lo­dy at­trib­ut­ed to Mar­tin Herbst (1654–1681). Har­mo­ny by Will­iam H. Monk (1823–1889) (🔊 pdf nwc).

Alternate Tunes:

Lyrics

Sinners, for trans­gress­ion, see
Sharp disease their youth consume,
And their beauty, like a tree,
Withering on an early tomb.

Food is loathsome to their taste,
And the eye revolts from light;
All their joys to ruin haste,
As the sunset into night.

Then unto the Lord they cry;
He inclines a gracious ear,
Sends deliverance from on high,
Rescues them from all their fear.

He with health renews their frame,
Lengthens out their numbered days,
Let them glorify His name
With the sacrifice of praise.

O that men would praise the Lord,
For His goodness to their race,
For the wonders of His Word,
And the riches of His grace!