1. 1 O LORD, take pity, once You’ve seen
What’s leaving us so shaken:
Your saints are few and far between-
We feel we’ve been forsaken.
So many call Your Word untrue,
Refusing to believe in You-
They have us far outnumbered.
2. 2 They teach deceptive, empty lies
Of all their own invention.
God’s Word reveals their thin disguise;
They have no good intention.
Between themselves they disagree;
They cause divisions endlessly,
And yet appear so pious.
3. 3 May God root out all those who teach
Religion that is twisted,
4 Who say with bold, defiant speech:
“We cannot be resisted.
For we alone have right and might;
Our views are welcomed with delight.
To whom must we give answer?”
4. 5 Therefore God says, ”I won’t delay!
My people’s hopes are waning.
Their sighs disclose their great dismay;
I’ve heard their sad complaining.
My healing word will work as planned,
Will bring relief, will make them stand,
Will strengthen and uphold them.”
5. 6 As silver ore emerges pure
From blazing fire’s refinement,
So crosses that we must endure
By God’s all-wise assignment
7 Will only prove His Word is true
And let its light come shining through-
A beacon for the nations.
6. 8 Dear Lord, the godless gather ’round
The guides whose teachings suit them.
Within Your church let there be found
The courage to refute them.
Preserve Your Word and keep it pure,
And thus we shall remain secure
From evils that surround us!
Music: Heinrich Schütz, 1661
Text: Michael D. Schultz, 2014 © 2014, Michael D. Schultz
Tune name: ACH GOTT VOM HIMMEL [BECKER 12] 8 7. 8 7. 8 8 7.
All vocals by Michael E. Owens. Sorry it's just one stanza! I make samples of tunes that anyone can sing.
Now that you know the tune, go ahead and sing it.
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