Written by Philip Doddridge on June 10, 1739, this hymn was composed based on the text of Psalm 119:158. It was first published posthumously in Job Orton's edition of Doddridge's Hymns in 1755 under the heading "Beholding Transgressors with Grief." Formatted in five stanzas of four lines, the text was later included in J. D. Humphreys's 1839 edition of Doddridge's works. The hymn quickly gained wide acceptance in Common Use among both Church of England and Nonconformist congregations. Recognized for its strong, vivid language reflecting traditional penitential themes, it remains in numerous British and American hymnals, particularly valued for missionary services.
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Awake my Soul, Stretch Ev'ry nerve
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Triumphant Zion, lift Thy head
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Ye Servants of the Lord
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