Awake, my glory! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Psalm 57:8 & 103:1Although you may not recognize the title or composer, the eleventh verse is on of the most frequently used pieces of music in public worship...commonly known as the Doxology. Ken wrote this hymn at a time when the established church believe only Scripture should be sung as hymns–with an emphasis on the Psalms. Some considered it sinful and blasphemous to write new lyrics for church music, akin to adding to the Scriptures. In that atmosphere, Ken wrote this and several other hymns for the boys at Winchester College, with strict instructions that they use them only in their rooms, for private devotions. We are thankful that these words of truth and encouragement can now be used in devotions and in worship with the church. This is a wonderful hymn, with a very familiar tune, to teach children in Sunday school worship times.
Awake, My Soul, and with the Sun
Awake, my soul, and with the sun Thy daily stage of duty run; Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise, To pay they morning sacrifice.
Thy precious time misspent, redeem Each present day they last esteem, Improve thy talent with due care; For the great day thyself prepare.
By influence of the Light divine Let thy own light to others shine. Reflect all heaven's propitious ways In ardent love, and cheerful praise.
In conversation be sincere; Keep conscience as the noontide clear; Think how all seeing God thy ways And all thy secret thoughts surveys.
Wake and lift up thyself, my heart, And with the angels bear thy part, Who all night long unwearied sing High praise to the eternal King.
All praise to Thee, Who safe has kept And hast refreshed me while I slept Grant, Lord, when I from death shall wake I may of endless light partake.
Heav'n is, dear Lord, where'er Thou art, O never then from me depart; For to my soul 'tis hell to be But for one moment void of Thee
Lord, I my vows to Thee renew; Disperse my sins as morning dew. Guard my first springs of thought and will, And with Thyself my spirit fill.
Direct, control, suggest, this day, All I design, or do, or say, That all my powers, with all their might, In Thy sole glory may unite.
I would not wake nor rise again And Heaven itself I would disdain, Wert Thou not there to be enjoyed, And I in hymns to be employed.
Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
