Father, let me dedicate

1 Father, let me dedicate
All this year to Thee,
In whatever worldly state
Thou wilt have me be.
Not from sorrow, pain, or care,
Freedom dare I claim;
This alone shall be my prayer:
Glorify Thy name.

2 Can a child presume to choose
Where or how to live?
Can a Father’s love refuse
All the best to give?
More Thou givest every day
Than the best can claim,
Nor withholdest aught that may
Glorify Thy name.

3 If in mercy Thou wilt spare
Joys that yet are mine;
If on life, serene and fair,
Brighter rays may shine,--
Let my glad heart, while it sings,
Thee in all proclaim,
And, whate’er the future brings,
Glorify Thy name.