And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. Rev. xiv. 3.

TWENTIETH EDITION.

New-York:

M'ELRATH, BANGS, & HERBERT

1833.

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ble, the heavenly choristers above. Singing is that delightful part of devotion, which animates our hearts, raises our affections, and testifies the inward joy of our souls: hence David cries out in this heavenly frame, "Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous, for praise is comely for the upright;" again, "while I live, will I praise the Lord; I will sing praises unto my God while I have my being."

The matter of singing is God's praise, For God is the King of all the earth, sing ye praises with understanding, Ps. xlvii. 7; and the manner with a loud voice, Sing aloud unto God our Strength; make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob, Ps. lxxxi. 1.

PREFACE.

THE Compiler of this selection of Hymns, feels grateful to the public, for the favourable reception with which the two former editions of this work have met with, and humbly trusts that the present edition, in its improved form, will also meet with their approbation and patronage.

He has designed this selection as a pocket companion, for the use of all who through faith and patience inherit the promises, who have left the city of destruction and are on their way to Mount Zion, the city of the living God. Hoping they may sing with the spirit and understanding, making melody in their hearts, with their voices to the Lord.

As singing is one of the employments of saints in this, as well as the next world, we should be spiritual in our devotions; and imitate, as far as practica