19. Hymn: Where Is My God? Does He Retire

Hymn: Where Is My God? Does He Retire

Author: Anne Steele (1717-1778)

1. Where is my God? does he retire
    Beyond the reach of humble sighs?
    Are these weak breathings of desire
    Too languid to ascend the skies?
    Where is my God? can he be mine
    And yet so long conceal his face?
    And must I every joy resign
    Nor hope for his returning grace?

2. Hence guilty diffidence depart,
    His goodness never can decline;
    He sees this weak, this trembling heart
    That yet aspires to call him mine.
    He hears the breathings of desire,
    The weak petition if sincere,
    Is not forbidden to aspire,
    And hope to reach his gracious ear.

3. Look up, my soul, with cheerful eye,
    See where the great redeemer stands,
    The glorious advocate on high,
    With precious incense in his hands.
    He sweetens every humble groan,
    He recommends each broken prayer;
    Recline your hope on him alone,
    Whose power and love forbid despair.

4. Teach my weak heart, O gracious Lord,
    With stronger faith to call you mine,
    Bid me pronounce the blissful word,
    My father God with joy divine.
    Look up, my soul, with cheerful eye,
    See where the great redeemer stands,
    The glorious advocate on high,
    With precious incense in his hands.