Oh! for a closer walk with God,
     A calm and heavenly frame; 
A light to shine upon the road
     That leads me to the Lamb!

Where is the blessedness I knew
     When first I saw the Lord? 
Where is the soul-refreshing view
     Of Jesus and his word?

What peaceful hours I once enjoyed!
     How sweet their memory still! 
But they have left an aching void,
     The world can never fill.

Return, O holy Dove, return!
     Sweet the messenger of rest! 
I hate the sins that made thee mourn
     And drove thee from my breast.

The dearest idol I have known,
     Whate'er that idol be, 
Help me to tear it from thy throne,
     And worship only thee.

So shall my walk be close with God,
     Calm and serene my frame; 
So purer light shall mark the road
     That leads me to the Lamb.