Gladness was spread through Israel’s host

The words

1. 1

   Stanza 1. Gladness was spread through Israel’s hostWhen first they Manna viewed;They labored who should gather most,And thought it pleasant food.

2. 2

   Stanza 2. But when they had it long enjoyedFrom day to day, the same;Their hearts were by the plenty cloyed,Although from heav’n it came.

3. 3

   Stanza 3. Thus gospel bread at first is prized,And makes a people glad;But afterwards too much despised,When easy to be had.

4. 4

   Stanza 4. But should the Lord, displeased, withholdThe bread his mercy sends;To have our houses filled with goldWould make but poor amends.

5. 5

   Stanza 5. How tedious would the week appear,How dull the Sabbath prove?Could we no longer meet to bearThe precious truths we love!

6. 6

   Stanza 6. How would believing parents bearTo leave their heedless youth,Exposed to every fatal snare,Without the light of truth?

7. 7

   Stanza 7. The gospel, and a praying fewOur bulwark long have proved;But Olney sure the day will rueWhen these shall be removed.

8. 8

   Stanza 8. Then sin, in this once favored town,Will triumph unrestrained;And wrath and vengeance hasten down,No more by prayer detained.

9. 9

   Stanza 9. Preserve us from this judgment, LordFor JESUS’ sake we plead;A famine of the gospel wordWould be a stroke indeed!

Olney Hymns (1779), Book 2, Hymn 49. John Newton. Public domain. CCEL transcription with modernized spelling. www.praylock.com/olney-hymns/2-49