James Edmeston (1791–1867)

LEAD us, heavenly Father, lead us

O’er the world’s tempestuous sea;

Guard us, guide us, keep us, feed us,

For we have no help but Thee;

Yet possessing

Every blessing,

If our God our Father be!

Saviour! breathe forgiveness o’er us;

All our weakness Thou dost know;

Thou didst tread this earth before us,

Thou didst feel its keenest woe;

Lone and dreary,

Faint and weary,

Through the desert Thou didst go!

Spirit of our God, descending,

Fill our hearts with heavenly joy;

Love, with every passion blending,

Pleasure, that can never cloy:

Thus provided,

Pardoned, guided,

Nothing can our peace destroy!