HYMN #0640 SSS #640 • SS&S Meter: P.M. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #640: I would not ask for

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

1

I would not ask for earthly store—
Thou wilt my need supply;
But I would covet, more and more,
The clear and single eye,
To see my duty face to face,
And trust Thee, Lord, for daily grace.
Then shall my heart keep sing . . . ing,
While to the cross I cling; . .
For rest is sweet at Jesus’ feet,
While homeward faith keeps winging,
While homeward faith keeps winging.

2

I care not for the empty show
That thoughtless worldlings see;
But gladly do the best I know,
And leave the rest with Thee;—
Well satisfied that sweet reward
Is sure to those who trust the Lord,

3

Whate’er the crosses mine shall be,
I would not dare to shun;
But only ask to live for Thee,
And that Thy will be done;
Thy will, O Lord, be mine each day,
While pressing on my homeward way.

4

And when at last, my labour o’er,
I cross the narrow sea,
Grant, Lord, that on the other shore
My soul may dwell with Thee;
And learn what here I cannot know,
Why Thou hast ever loved me so.

← Prev (#639) Hymn 640 of 1,200 Next (#641) →

🔎 Browse All 1,200 SS&S Hymns

Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "I would not ask for"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #640 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 4 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

Poetic Meter: P.M.
Stanza Structure: 4 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship

⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.

WINDOWS DESKTOP EDITION 100% Offline Worship

Take All 1,838 Hymns With Cathedral Organ Tunes Everywhere

Download the free offline Windows app with full 4-part harmony pipe organ accompaniments for both Sacred Songs & Solos and Hymns Ancient & Modern.

⬇️ Download for Windows PC (2.9 MB) View simple 1-minute installation guide →