Hymn of the Day: ‘When I Survey the Wondrous Cross’ by Isaac Watts

“When I survey the wondrous cross,
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord! That I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God:
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down:
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.”

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“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”

Crucifixion to the World, by the Cross of Christ. Gal. vi. 14.

Isaac Watts (1674-1748), 1707

1940 Broadman Hymnal variation

For more information & history on this hymn and its history, click here.