I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth as long as the wicked are in my presence.
Psalm 39:1
Words: Isaac Watts, The Psalms of David 1719. Watchfulness over the tongue; or, prudence and zeal.
Music: Ballerma François H. Barthélémon (1741–1808). Adapted by Robert Simpson in A Selection of Original Sacred Music, 1833 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good picture of Simpson (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), or a better one of Barthélémon,
Thus I resolved before the Lord,
Now will I watch my tongue;
Lest I let slip one sinful word,
Or do my neighbor wrong.
And if I’m e’er constrained to stay
With men of lives profane,
I’ll set a double guard that day,
Nor let my talk be vain.
I’ll scarce allow my lips to speak
The pious thoughts I feel,
Lest scoffers should th’occasion take
To mock my holy zeal.
Yet if some proper hour appear,
I’ll not be overawed,
But let the scoffing sinners hear
That we can speak for God.