Favourite Hymn? My Heart was Distressed

The more we grow as believers and the greater our knowledge of Christian music, the harder it becomes to have a favourite song.

Good hymns are often over-sung (Great is Thy Faithfulness, Crown Him with Many Crowns) as are bad ones (My Jesus my Saviour).

So although I cannot have a favourite hymn, I am increasingly attached to this one, for its biblical language and catchy tune. Sadly, I cannot find the music for it, which is shame.

You can hear it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptX7K7irngQ

 

    My heart was distressed ’neath Jehovah’s dread frown,

    And low in the pit where my sins dragged me down;

    I cried to the Lord from the deep miry clay,

    Who tenderly brought me out to golden day.

 

        Refrain:

        He brought me out of the miry clay,

        He set my feet on the Rock to stay;

        He puts a song in my soul today,

        A song of praise, hallelujah!

 

    He placed me upon the strong Rock by His side,

    My steps were established and here I’ll abide;

    No danger of falling while here I remain,

    But stand by His grace until the crown I gain.

 

    He gave me a song, ’twas a new song of praise;

    By day and by night its sweet notes I will raise;

    My heart’s overflowing, I’m happy and free;

    I’ll praise my Redeemer, Who has rescued me.

 

    I’ll sing of His wonderful mercy to me,

    I’ll praise Him till all men His goodness shall see;

    I’ll sing of salvation at home and abroad,

    Till many shall hear the truth and trust in God.

 

    I’ll tell of the pit, with its gloom and despair,

    I’ll praise the dear Father, who answered my prayer;

    I’ll sing my new song, the glad story of love,

    Then join in the chorus with the saints above.

 

Henry Zelley, 1898.