I thank Thee, O Lord, for the gift of affliction,
For wounding my spirit, for breaking my rest;
I bless Thee, O Lord, for Thy sweet benediction;
In love Thou hast done it-Thy way is the best.
I thank Thee, O Lord, for conflict, temptation,
For the harass of Satan, for weariness, pain;
In all, Thou hast granted me strong consolation;
In all, Thou hast shown me Thy love and my gain.
I thank Thee, O Lord, for my tears and my sorrow,
Thy frequent chastising, uncertainty's care;
Thy wisdom forbids me to boast of the morrow—
Thy goodness protects me from every snare.
I pray Thee, O Lord, that Thou still wilt sustain
me;
Thou knowest my weakness; Thou pond'rest my way;
Oh, comfort and keep me, midst all that may pain me,
Lest I should grow weary, or wander astray.
I thank Thee, O Lord, for the rest of Thy presence;
Strong refuge! Sweet calm of my tempest-tossed
night!
Of heaven's own gladness and brightness the essence!
The glory I wait for till dawns the true light.
I thank Thee, O Lord, for the gift of affliction,
For wounding my spirit, for breaking my rest;
I bless Thee, O Lord, for Thy love's benediction;
In love Thou hast wounded; Thy way is the best.