1  In the secret of His presence

       How my soul delights to hide!

    Oh, how precious are the lessons

       Which I learn at Jesus' side!

    Earthly cares can never vex me,

       Neither trials lay me low;

    For when Satan comes to tempt me,

       To the secret place I go.

 2  When my soul is faint and thirsty,

       'Neath the shadow of His wing

    There is cool and pleasant shelter,

       And a fresh and crystal spring;

    And my Savior rests beside me,

       As we hold communion sweet;

    If I tried, I could not utter

       What He says when thus we meet.

 3  Only this I know: I tell Him

       All my doubts and griefs and fears;

    Oh, how patiently He listens!

       And my drooping soul He cheers;

    Do you think He ne'er reproves me?

       What a false friend He would be,

    If He never, never told me

       Of the sins which He must see.

 4  Would you like to know that sweetness

       Of the secret of the Lord?

    Go and hide beneath the shadow;

       This shall then be your reward;

    And whene'er you leave the silence

       Of that happy meeting-place,

    By the Spirit bear the image

       Of the Master in your face.