1.
O Thou unknown, Almighty Cause
Of all my hope and fear!
In whose dread presence, ere an hour,
Perhaps I must appear!
2.
If I have wander'd in those paths
Of life I ought to shun --
As something, loudly, in my breast,
Remonstrates I have done --
3.
Thou know'st that Thou hast formed me
With passions wild and strong;
And list'ning to their witching voice
Has often led me wrong.
4.
Where human weakness has come short,
Or frailty steps aside,
Do Thou, All-good - for such Thou art --
In shades of darkness hide.
5.
Where with intention I have err'd,
No other plea I have,
But, Thou art good; and Goodness still
Delighteth to forgive.

O You unknown, Almighty Cause
Of all my hope and fear!
In whose dread presence, before an hour,
Perhaps I must appear!

If I have wandered in those paths
Of life I ought to shun -
As something, loudly, in my breast,
Remonstrates I have done -

You know that You have formed me
With passions wild and strong;
And listening to their witching voice
Has often led me wrong.

Where human weakness has come short,
Or frailty steps aside,
Do You, All-good - for such You art -
In shades of darkness hide.

Where with intention I have erred,
No other plea I have,
But, You are good; and Goodness still
Delighteth to forgive.