1 O that I had a thousand voices
And with a thousand tongues could tell
Of Him in whom the earth rejoices,
Who all things wisely does and well!
My grateful heart would then be free
To tell what God has done for me.

2 O all ye pow'rs that He implanted,
Arise, and silence keep no more;
Ye senses all that He has granted,
Awake, the Lord of hosts adore--
My soul and body, make ye meet,
The Lord with hymns of praise to greet.

3 Ye forest leaves, so green and tender,
That dance for joy in summer air;
Ye meadow grasses, bright and slender,
Ye flow'rs, so wondrous sweet and fair,
That live to show His praise alone,
Help me to make His glory known.

4 Ye creatures that have breath and motion,
That fill with life, earth, sea and sky,
O join me in my heart's devotion,
As I exalt the Lord most high:
My utmost pow'rs can ne'er aright
Declare the wonders of His might.

5 But I will tell, while I am living,
His tenderness with every breath
And come before Him with thanksgiving
Until my heart is still in death:
Nay, when at last my lips grow cold,
His praise shall in my sighs be told.

6 O Father, deign Thou, I beseech Thee,
To listen to my earthly lays;
A nobler strain in heaven shall reach Thee
When I with angels hymn Thy praise
And learn amid their choirs to sing
Loud hallelujahs to my King.