Author of faith, we seek thy face
For all who feel thy work begun; Confirm and strengthen them in grace, And bring thy feeblest children on.
Thou seest their wants, thou know'st their names, Be mindful of thy youngest care; Be tender of thy new-born lambs, And gently in thy bosom bear.
The lion roaring for his prey, And ravening wolves on every side, Watch over them to tear and slay, If found one moment from their guide.
Satan his thousand arts essays, His agents all their powers employ, To blast the blooming work of grace, The heavenly offspring to destroy.
Baffle the crooked serpent's skill, And turn his sharpest dart aside; Hide from their eyes the devilish ill, O save them from the demon, pride!
In safety lead thy little flock, From hell, the world, and sin secure; And set their feet upon the rock, And make in thee their goings sure.