Psalm 40

Abraham Coles

3 He gave me a new song to sing,
And His great goodness was my theme;
I made the hills and valleys ring,
For O my rapture was supreme!
Many shall see and fear and trust,
Happy is he whom lies disgust.

5 Many the wonders Thou hast wrought,
Lord my God, on our account:
Tried I to tell each gracious thought,
I could not to the number mount.
O Thou with whom none can compare.
How can I speak Thee or declare?

6 Since sacrifice and offering Thou
Hast no delight in any more,
But only in obedience now,
Thou didst mine ears for service bore —
Then said I, "Lo, I come Thy will,
My God, completely to fulfill."

9 To preach glad news of righteousness,
Thou knowest, Lord, I've not refrained;
Mid gathered Israel's mighty press.
My ardent lips I've not restrained,
10 From publishing and making known
The truth and mercy of Thy throne.

11 Withhold not Thy compassions, let
Thy love and truth continued be:
12 For countless ills have me beset,
My sins have overtaken me —
So many are they, shame and dread
Forbid that I should lift my head.

13 Make haste to answer me, O Lord!
14 Let those, who would my soul destroy.
Confusion have for their reward,
And those who in my hurt would joy.
15 Let them therefore be desolate,
Who say Aha! in scorn and hate.

16 Make glad all who in Thee confide;
Let such as Thy salvation prize,
Repeat: "The Lord be magnified!"
17 Though poor, Thou dost not me despise;
Thou art my Help — deliverance bring,
Make, O my God, no tarrying!