(illuminated capital) O God of Hosts, our fathers’ God, Thy blessing on our country shed, Watch o’er the land our sires have trod, Watch o’er the land our sons will tread. We pray for our Jerusalem, Keep discord from her homes afar, Let thy strong arm deliver them From famine, pestilence, and war. Though Britain spurns th’ invader’s sword As her white cliffs repulse the tide, We would our grateful hearts, O Lord! Lift up in praise, and not in pride. The race is not unto the swift, Nor is the battle to the strong; Success and safety are Thy gift, The glory must to Thee belong. Let our dear land in safety rest, Her people happy, loyal, free, Blest amongst nations—still most blest In that pure faith which leads to Thee! |