1 O that thy statutes ev'ry hour
Might dwell upon my mind!
Thence I derive a quick'ning pow'r
And daily peace I find.

2 To meditate thy precepts, Lord,
Shall be my sweet employ;
My soul shall ne'er forget thy word,
Thy word is all my joy.

3 How would I run in thy commands,
If thou my heart discharge
From sin and Satan's hateful chains,
And set my feet at large!

4 My lips with courage shall declare
Thy statutes and thy name;
I'll speak thy word, tho' kings should hear,
Nor yield to sinful shame.

5 Let bands of persecutors rise
To rob me of my right,
Let pride and malice forge their lies,
Thy law is my delight.

6 Depart from me, ye wicked race,
Whose hands and hearts are ill:
I love my God, I love his ways,
I must obey his will.