Classic Poem

Give thanks to the Lord, and his goodness proclaim,
His mercy endureth forever the same;
Let Israel sing loudly in rapturous strains, —
" His mercy forever and ever remains. "

Let them, whom he calls at his altars to wait,
Sing — " Great is his mercy, surpassingly great; "
Let all them, who fear him, their tribute bestow,
And shout — " For his mercy forever doth flow. "

We call'd in distress on the Lord for relief,
He heard us, and speedily banish'd our grief;
Jehovah is with us, he stands at our side,
We dread not the wrath of all beings beside.

'Tis better Jehovah forever to trust,
Than mightiest princes — for they are but dust:
Encompass'd by legions, we lean'd on his arm,
He scatter'd our foes, and secur'd us from harm.

The Lord is our fortress, salvation, and song;
With rapture, ye righteous! his praises prolong;
Exultingly sing — " The right hand of the Lord —
The hand of Jehovah in triumph hath warr'd. "