Verse 1
How shall I praise th’ eternal God,
That infinite unknown?
Who can ascend his high abode,
Or venture near his throne?
Verse 2
[The great Invisible! he dwells
Conceal’d in dazzling light;
But his all-searching eye reveals
The secrets of the night.
Verse 3
Those watchful eyes that never sleep
Survey the world around;
His wisdom is a boundless deep
Where all our thoughts are drown’d.]
Verse 4
[Speak we of strength? His arm is strong
To save or to destroy:
Infinite years his life prolong,
And endless is his joy.]
Verse 5
[He knows no shadow of a change,
Nor alters his decrees;
Firm as a rock his truth remains
To guard his promises.]
Verse 6
[Sinners before his presence die;
How holy is his Name!
His anger and his jealousy
Burn like devouring flame.]
Verse 7
Justice upon a dreadful throne
Maintains the rights of God;
While Mercy sends her pardons down,
Bought with a Saviour’s blood.
Verse 8
Now to my soul, immortal King,
Speak some forgiving word;
Then ‘t will be double joy to sing
The glories of my Lord.
Isaac Watts, “How Shall I Praise Th' Eternal God”