To keep the lamp alive
Book 3, Hymn 74 · William Cowper · Public-domain words
To keep the lamp alive
Book 3, Hymn 74 · William Cowper
The words
- 1
Stanza 1. To keep the lamp aliveWith oil we fill the bowl;’Tis water makes the willow thrive,And grace that feeds the soul.
- 2
Stanza 2. The LORD’S unsparing handSupplies the living streamIt is not at our own command,But still derived from him.
- 3
Stanza 3. Beware of Peter’s word,Nor confidently say,“I never will deny thee, LORD,”But grant I never may.
- 4
Stanza 4. Man’s wisdom is to seekHis strength in God alone;And e’en an angel would be weak,Who trusted in his own.
- 5
Stanza 5. Retreat beneath his wings,And in his grace confide;This more exalts the King of kingsThan all your works beside.
- 6
Stanza 6. In JESUS is our store,Grace issues from his throne;Whoever says, “I want no more,”Confesses he has none.
Olney Hymns (1779), Book 3, Hymn 74. William Cowper. Public domain. CCEL transcription with modernized spelling. www.praylock.com/olney-hymns/3-74
About these words
William Cowper lived from 1731 to 1800. These historical words are public domain.
This hymn belongs to the complete three-book collection first published in 1779.
The CCEL transcription modernizes spelling and some punctuation. Read this hymn at the source. Checked 23 October 2026.
No sheet music or recordings are included. This web collection is separate from the PrayLock iPhone app.
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