161A.  Nearer, Still Nearer

1
Nearer, still nearer, close to Thy heart,
Draw me, my Savior, so precious Thou art;
Fold me, O fold me close to Thy breast,
«Shelter me safe in that “Haven of Rest.” »

2
Nearer, still nearer, nothing I bring,
Naught as an offering to Jesus my King;
Only my sinful, now contrite heart,
«Grant me the cleansing Thy blood doth impart. »

3
Nearer, still nearer, Lord, to be Thine,
Sin, with its follies I gladly resign;
All of its pleasures, pomp and its pride,
«Give me but Jesus, my Lord crucified. »

4
Nearer, still nearer, while life shall last,
Till safe in glory my anchor is cast;
Through endless ages, ever to be,
«Nearer my Savior, still nearer to Thee. »