Why art thou cast down?

John Newton · 1779

Catalog grade guidance: 3–5 — Olney hymn for school recitation; preview archaic diction.

32 content lines · 197 words · Est. recitation about 2 min 21 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 40

John Newton

8,8,8,8

Why art thou cast down?

Be still my heart! these anxious cares

To thee are burdens, thorns, and snares,

They cast dishonor on thy Lord,

And contradict his gracious word!

Brought safely by his hand thus far,

Why wilt thou now give place to fear?

How canst thou want if he provide,

Or lose thy way with such a guide?

When first before his mercy-seat,

Thou didst to him thy all commit;

He gave thee warrant, from that hour,

To trust his wisdom, love, and pow'r.

Did ever trouble yet befall,

And he refuse to hear thy call?

And has he not his promise past,

That thou shalt overcome at last?

Like David, thou may'st comfort draw,

Saved from the bear's and lion's paw;

Goliath's rage I may defy,

For God, my Savior, still is nigh.

He who has helped me hitherto,

Will help me all my journey through;

And give me daily cause to raise

New Ebenezers to his praise.

Though rough and thorny be the road,

It leads thee home, apace, to GOD;

Then count thy present trials small,

For heav'n will make amends for all.