When my way is hedged about me, hedged with thorns of care;
When the cross I loved so dearly, seems too hard to bear;
When my heart is bowed with sorrow, and no light I see—
Lord, Thy tender mercy pleading, let me lean on Thee.

O, for faith to cast behind me every sad complaint—
Faith to run and not be weary, walk and never faint;
Thou dost know and feel my weakness, Savior look on me;
Now Thy tender mercy pleading, let me lean on Thee.

Closer let Thine arms enfold me, closer to Thy breast
Draw my weary, trembling spirit, calm its doubts to rest;
Give me strength for every burden Thou hast borne for me;
Lord, Thy tender mercy pleading, let me lean on Thee.