1 God of the ages, whose almighty hand
leads forth in beauty all the starry band
of shining worlds in splendor through the skies,
our grateful songs before your throne arise.
2 Your love divine has led us in the past,
in this free land by you our lot is cast;
be now our ruler, guardian, guide, and stay,
your Word, our law, your paths our chosen way.
3 From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence,
be your strong arm our ever sure defense;
your true religion in our hearts increase,
your bounteous goodness nourish us in peace.
4 Refresh your people on their toilsome way,
lead us from night to never-ending day;
fill all our lives with heaven-born love and grace,
and songs of praise we'll lift before your face!
