Psalm 51

Words: The Psalter, 1912

   1  God, be merciful to me, 
      on Thy grace I rest my plea.
      Plenteous in compassion Thou,
      blot out my transgressions now.
      Wash me, make me pure within,
      cleanse, O cleanse me from my sin.

   2  My transgressions I confess,
      grief and guilt my soul oppress;
      I have sinned against Thy grace
      and provoked Thee to Thy face;
      I confess Thy judgment just,
      speechless, I thy mercy trust.

   3  I am evil, born in sin;
      Thou desirest truth within.
      Thou alone my Savior art,
      teach Thy wisdom to my heart;
      Make me pure, Thy grace bestow,
      wash me whiter than the snow.

   4  Broken, humbled to the dust
      by Thy wrath and judgment just.
      Let my contrite heart rejoice
      and in gladness hear Thy voice;
      From my sins O hide Thy face,
      blot them out in boundless grace.

   5  Gracious God, my heart renew,
      make my spirit right and true;
      Cast me not away from Thee,
      let Thy spirit dwell with me;
      Thy salvation's joy impart,
      steadfast make my willing heart.