Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

As birds their infant brood protect

William Cowper

A brilliant English poet and hymnist (1731–1800) who struggled with severe depression and mental illness throughout his life. Despite his deep struggles and times of darkness, Cowper found profound comfort in his faith and his friendship with John Newton. Together, they co-authored the famous Olney Hymns. Cowper's vulnerability and search for hope led him to write some of the church's most comforting and honest hymns, including 'There is a Fountain Filled with Blood' and 'God Moves in a Mysterious Way', which he wrote to declare God's hidden goodness during his own deepest spiritual trials.

Source: Olney Hymns

As birds their infant brood protect,

And spread their wings to shelter them;

Thus saith the LORD to his elect,

"So will I guard Jerusalem."

And what then is Jerusalem,

This darling object of his care?

Where is its worth in God's esteem,

Who built it? who inhabits there?

Jehovah founded it in blood,

The blood of his incarnate Son;

There dwell the saints, once foes to God,

The sinners, whom he calls his own.

There, though besieged on every side,

Yet much beloved and guarded well;

From age to age they have defied,

The utmost force of earth and hell.

Let earth repent, and hell despair,

This city has a sure defence;

Her name is called, the LORD is there,

And who has pow'r to drive him thence.

As birds their infant brood protect

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