1 Say, is this wild, corrupted nation
Blest with a few who seek the Lord?
Say, is there one in every station
Who loves t’obey Jehovah’s word?

2 Are all agreed t’increase the sadness
Of such a dark and gloomy time?
Do all run on in headstrong madness,
And scorn repentance for the crime?

3 Is this, indeed, our sad condition?
No: let me bless the God of grace!
There are a few who with contrition
Lament for sin before His face.

4 Let me encourage their confession,
Their strong entreaties for this land!
Though ’tis a time of great transgression,
Yet, surely, God is still at hand.

5 Ye humble souls, pray without ceasing,
To you the Lord will lend an ear;
While sins and judgments are increasing,
O pray in faith and persevere.

6 O pray, nor be too much dejected,
Ask all in Jesu’s worthy name!
Your suit shall never be rejected,
Through Him we may forgiveness claim.

7 Come, sinners, join in each petition,
Nor tempt the Lord by your delay:
He gives repentance and remission
To all who do sincerely pray.

8 Let every soul in every station
Join their assistance—who can tell
But God may turn and bless this nation,
And send contention down to hell.