O God, to know that Thou art just
Gives hope and peace within;
We could not in a mercy trust
Which takes no count of sin.

I fain would open to Thy sight
My utmost wickedness;
Set, Lord, in Thy most searching light
What I have done amiss.

No stern and needless law was Thine�
Hard to be understood�
But plainly read in every line,
Holy, and just, and good.

Though basely weak my fallen race,
And masterful my foes,
I had th�omnipotence of grace
To conquer, if I chose.

Well did I know the tender Heart
I outraged by my sin,
Yet with the world I would not part,
Nor reign my passions in.

My fault it was, O Lord, most high,
And not my fate alone:
Thou canst not suffer sin, nor I
In any way atone.

Yet there�s a plea that I may trust�
Christ died that I might live!
Cleanse me, my God, for Thou art just;
Be faithful, and forgive.