p. 62 | Keep Me Near Thee by Sel.

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 6, 1879

Keep Me Near Thee.

By Sel.

Father, ever keep me near thee, Lest I seek forbidden ways; Teach my soul to love and fear thee, Sovereign ruler of my days.

I have wandered far from duty, I have kept my eyes cast down, Satisfied with earthly pleasures, Longing for an earthly crown.

Things divine I cast far from me, Putting off the evil day, When thou should'st spread out before me All my sins in dread array.

Father, now I see my danger, Leave, oh! leave me not alone; Lift me up till I am near thee, Near thy bright and shining throne.

Perish earthly things below me, Vanish all life's fleeting toys, I have sought Heaven's priceless treasures, I may share immortal joys.

—Sel.