A Glance from heav’n, with sweet effect

The words

1. 1

   Stanza 1. A Glance from heav’n, with sweet effect,Sometimes my pensive spirit cheers;But, ere I can my thoughts collect,As suddenly it disappears.

2. 2

   Stanza 2. So lightning in the gloom of night,Affords a momentary day;Disclosing objects full in sight,Which soon as seen, are snatched away.

3. 3

   Stanza 3. Ah! what avail these pleasing scenes!They do but aggravate my pain;While darkness quickly intervenes,And swallows up my joys again.

4. 4

   Stanza 4. But shall I murmur at relief?Though short, it was a precious view;Sent to control my unbelief,And prove that what I read is true.

5. 5

   Stanza 5. The lightning’s flash did not createThe op’ning prospect it revealed;But only showed the real stateOf what the darkness had concealed.

6. 6

   Stanza 6. Just so, we by a glimpse discernThe glorious things within the veil;That when in darkness, we may learnTo live by faith, till light prevail.

7. 7

   Stanza 7. The Lord’s great day will soon advance,Dispersing all the shades of night;Then we no more shall need a glance,But see by an eternal Light.

Olney Hymns (1779), Book 2, Hymn 84. John Newton. Public domain. CCEL transcription with modernized spelling. www.praylock.com/olney-hymns/2-84