Stay with me: swiftly falls the evening hour; the shadows grow darker; Lord, stay close to me. When helpers fail and comforts vanish, Help of the helpless, oh, stay with me. Swiftly life's brief day comes to a close; earth's joys fade, its beauty fades away. In all I see, change and decay are near. O Lord, who remains unchanged, stay with me. I need your presence every moment. What but your loving-kindness can thwart the enemy's power? Who but you, Lord, can be my guide and strength? Through every trial and triumph, stay with me. I fear no enemy with you by my side to bless, though troubles weigh heavy, and tears are bitter. Where is death's sting? Where, grave, is your victory? I still triumph, for you are with me. Hold your Word before my eyes as I close them. Shine through the darkness and point me to heaven's gates. Heaven's morning light breaks, and earth's shadows flee; in life and in death, O Lord, stay with me.
