How long, O Lord, will you forget

How long, O Lord, will you forget,
your face and favour hiding—
that I should wrestle with my thoughts,
my heart for sorrow sighing?
How long will you forget me, Lord,
O surely not for ever?
Help me to listen to your word:
‘I will forsake you never!’

2. How long will my oppressors rise,
their victory declaring?
O answer me and give me light,
or I will die despairing.
How long will you forget me, Lord?
Don’t let it be for ever!
Help me to understand your word:
‘I will forsake you never!’

3. My enemies will smile, and say
their strength has overcome me;
and at my fall my foes rejoice
that they have overthrown me.
How long will you forget me, Lord?
It cannot be for ever—
help me to take you at your word:
‘I will forsake you never!’

4. In your salvation I rejoice,
I trust your love unceasing;
I’ll sing to you, for, O my Lord
you shower my life with blessing.
How long will you forget me, Lord?
It shall not be for ever,
for by your grace I’ll prove your word:
‘I will forsake you never!’
BASED ON PSALM 13