A HYMN FOR TODAY – I Could Not Do Without You

A fine example of “old” lyrics which deserve to be sung, “refreshed” by new Charli Couchman music appropriate to the lyrics. This is one of the hymns recently recorded in Tampa for inclusion on the forthcoming third Sumphonia CD.

I could not do without You,
O Savior of the lost,
Whose precious blood redeemed me
At such tremendous cost.
Your righteousness, Your pardon
Your precious blood, must be
My only hope and comfort,
My glory and my plea.

I could not do without You;
I cannot stand alone;
I have no strength or goodness,
No wisdom of my own;
But You, beloved Savior,
Are near in all I do,
And weakness will be power
If leaning hard on You.

I could not do without You,
For, oh, the way is long,
And I am often weary,
And sigh replaces song:
How could I do without You?
I do not know the way;
You know, Lord, and You lead me
And will not let me stray.

I could not do without You,
For years are fleeting fast,
And soon in solemn oneness
The river must be passed;
But You will never leave me,
And though the waves roll high,
I know You will be near me
And whisper, “It is I.”

7.6.7.6.D – Frances R. Havergal, 1873

Tune: ELBERT – C.E. Couchman, 2003

#313 in Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs, 2012