General information
This is an hymn by Isaac Watts, 1709, from his Hymns and Spiritual Songs, entitled The divine perfections. Meter is 86. 86 (C.M.).
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Text and translations
 English text
1. How shall I praise the eternal God,
That infinite Unknown?
Who can ascend his high abode,
Or venture near his throne?
2. The great Invisible! he dwells
Concealed in dazzling light;
But his all-searching eye reveals
The secrets of the night.
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3. Those watchful eyes that never sleep
Survey the world around
His wisdom is a boundless deep
Where all our thoughts are drowned.
4. Speak we of strength? his arm is strong
To save or to destroy;
Infinite years his life prolong,
And endless is his joy.
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5. He knows no shadow of a change
Nor alters his decrees;
Firm as a rock his truth remains
To guard his promises.
6. Sinners before his presence die;
How holy is his name!
His anger and his jealousy
Burn like devouring flame.
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7. Justice upon a dreadful throne
Maintains the rights of God;
While Mercy sends her pardons down,
Bought with a Savior's blood.
8. Now to my soul, immortal King!
Speak some forgiving word;
Then 'twill be double joy to sing
The glories of my Lord.
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