Th' abyss of many a former sin

1 Th' abyss of many a former sin
Encloses me, and bars me in;
Like billows my transgressions roll;--
Be Thou the pilot of my soul;
And to salvation’s harbor bring,
Thou Savior and Thou glorious King!

2 My Father’s heritage abused,
Wasted by lust, by sin misused;
To shame and want and mis'ry brought,
The slave to many a fruitless thought:--
I cry to Thee, who lovest men,
O pity and receive again!

3 In hunger now, no more possessed
Of that my portion bright and blest,
The exile and the alien see,
Who yet would fain return to Thee!
And save me, Lord, who seeks to raise
To Thy dear love the hymn of praise!

4 With that saved thief my prayer I make,
Remember for Thy mercy’s sake!
With that poor publican I cry,
Be merciful, O God most high!
With that lost prodigal I fain
Back to my home would turn again!