Farewell I Gladly Bid Thee

Farewell I gladly bid thee,

False, evil world, farewell.

Thy life is vain and sinful,

With thee I would not dwell.

I long to be in Heaven,

In that untroubled sphere

Where they will be rewarded

Who served their God while here.

By Thy good counsel lead me,

O Son of God, my Stay;

In each perplexing trial

Help me, O Lord, I pray.

Mine hour of sorrow shorten,

Support my fainting heart,

From every cross deliver,

The crown of life impart.

When darkness round me gathers,

Thy Name and cross, still bright,

Deep in my heart are sparkling

Like stars in blackest night.

O heart, this image cherish:

The Christ on Calvary,

How patiently He suffered

And shed His blood for me!

Lord, hide my soul securely,

Deep in Thy wounded side;

From every danger shield me

And to Thy glory guide.

He has been truly blessèd

Who reaches Heav'n above;

He has found perfect healing

Who rests upon Thy love.

Lord, write my name, I pray Thee,

Now in the Book of Life

And with all true believers

Take me where joys are rife.

There let me bloom and flourish,

Thy perfect freedom prove,

And tell, as I adore Thee,

How faithful was Thy love.