Hymnal: The Christian Hymnal Revised
Date: 1882
Compiler: A I Hobbs et al
Publisher/Printer: Christian Publishing Co
First Line: How oft alas this wretched heart
Topic: Heart
Writer: Anne Steele
Composer: Thomas Hastings
Meter: CM
Tune: Chester
Hymn Number: 282
Page Number: 104, click to see hymnal pages
LyicsHOW oft, alas! this wretched heart
Has wander'd from the Lord!
How oft my roving thoughts depart,
Forgetful of His word.
Yet sov'reign mercy calls, "Return!"
Dear Lord! and may I come?
My vile ingratitude I mourn;
O take the wand'rer home!
And canst Thou, wilt Thou yet forgive,
And bid my crimes remove?
And shall a pardon'd rebel live
To speak Thy wondrous love?
Almighty grace! thy healing pow'r,
How glorious--how divine!
That can to life and bliss restore
A heart so vile as mine!
Thy pard'ning love--so free, so sweet--
Dear Saviour, I adore;
O keep me at Thy sacred feet,
And let me rove no more!