1 Rapid my days and months run on,
How soon another year is gone!
How swift my golden moments roll,
How much neglected by my soul!

2 Let me begin with holy fear
This new, this fleeting, flying year;
Too many unimproved have passed,
This year, perhaps, may be my last.

3 Give me, great God, a heart to pray;
Let all old things be done away;
Give me new strength to conquer sin,
And plant new holiness within.

4 I ask new wisdom for this year,
New fitness for my trials here;
Of every grace a richer store,
My God to love and honor more.

5 This year, O sheath war’s direful sword!
Let every nation serve the Lord:
Visit Thy Church, and may she bear
Much glorious fruit this blessèd year.