Come, My Soul, Thy Suit Prepare

John Newton · 1779

Catalog grade guidance: 3–5 — Classic Olney hymn; Christian school memory staple.

34 content lines · 183 words · Est. recitation about 2 min 14 sec (approx.)

Public-domain text for reading and recitation practice. Source: Christian Classics Ethereal Library (Olney Hymns, 1779).Estimated time uses ~120 words/minute plus short pauses—not a contest rule.

Hymn 31

John Newton

7,7,7,7

Ask what I shall give thee.
1Ki 3:5

Come, my soul, thy suit prepare,

Jesus loves to answer prayer,

He himself has bid thee pray,

Therefore will not say thee nay.

Thou art coming to a King,
Ps 81:10

Large petitions with thee bring;

For his grace and pow'r are such,

None can ever ask too much.

With my burden I begin,

Lord, remove this load of sin!

Let thy blood, for sinners spilt,

Set my conscience free from guilt.

Lord! I come to thee for rest,

Take possession of my breast;

There thy blood-bought right maintain,

And without a rival reign.

As the image in the glass

Answers the beholder's face;

Thus unto my heart appear,

Print thine own resemblance there.

While I am a pilgrim here,

Let thy love my spirit cheer;

As my Guide, my Guard, my Friend,

Lead me to my journey's end.

Show me what I have to do,

Every hour my strength renew;

Let me live a life of faith,

Let me die thy peoples death.