Hoping for a Revival

I

My harp untuned, and laid aside,
(To cheerful hours the harp belongs,)
My cruel foes insulting cried,
“Come, sing us one of Zion’s songs.”

II

Alas! when sinners, blindly bold,
At Zion scoff, and Zion’s King;
When zeal declines, and love grows cold,
Is this a day for me to sing?

III

Time was, whene’er the saints I met,
With joy and praise my bosom glow’d!
But now, like Eli, sad I sit,
And tremble for the ark of God.

IV

While thus to grief my soul gave way
To see the work of God decline,
Methought I heard my Saviour say,
“Dismiss thy fears⁠—the ark is mine.

V

“Though for a time I hide my face,
Rely upon my love and power;
Still wrestle at a throne of grace,
And wait for a reviving hour.

VI

“Take down thy long-neglected harp;
I’ve seen thy tears, and heard thy pray’r;
The winter season has been sharp,
But spring shall all its wastes repair.”

VII

Lord, I obey; my hopes revive;
Come join with me, ye saints, and sing;
Our foes in vain against us strive,
For God will help and healing bring.