What is That in Thine Hand?

1 What is that in thine hand, child, discouraged and sad?
Surely God hath one talent at least to thee giv'n;
There is work thou canst do, that shall some soul make glad,
That shall help in advancing the kingdom of heaven.

Chorus:
What is that in thine hand?
What is that in thine hand?
Hidden talent, it may be, thou dost not understand;
What is that in thine hand?
What is that in thine hand?
With it God may work wonders, if thou heed his command.

2 It may not be to preach, that he calls thee to-day,
Or to publicly labor with tongue or with pen;
But it may be to work in a meek, quiet way,
Just as pleasing to God and effective to men. [Chorus]

3 If a cup of cold water to some suff'ring one,
A disciple shall give in the name of his Lord,
E'en so humble a service, if trustingly done,
Shall be blest of the Master and have its reward. [Chorus]

4 What is that in thine hand? brother, say not again,
"I've no talent and nothing for God can I do;"
Bring it forth from the "napkin" where long it hath lain,
Ask the Lord how to use it, and prove to him true. [Chorus]

Source: The Golden Sheaf: a collection of choice hymns and songs especially designed for Sunday schools, loyal worker's meetings, prayer and social services (Enl. ed.) #60