Verse 1

O THOU before Whose presence Nought evil may come in, Yet Who dost look in mercy Down on this world of sin, O give us noble purpose To set the sin bound free, And Christ-like tender pity To seek the lost for Thee.

Verse 2

Our foe is fierce and subtle: The forces at his hand With woes that none can number Despoil the pleasant land; All they who war against them, In strife so keen and long, Must in their Saviour’s armour Be stronger than the strong.

Verse 3

“Tis Thou wrought among us The great things that we see! For things that are we thank Thee, And for the things to be. For bright hope is confirmeth Faint hands and feeble knees, To strive beneath Thy blessing For greater things than these.

Verse 4

Lead on, O Love and Mercy, O Purity and Power! Lead on till peace eternal Shall close this battle-hour: Till all who prayed and struggled To set their brethren free, In triumph meet to praise Thee, Most holy Trinity. Amen

Background: O Thou Before Whose Presence Nought Evil