O tender and sweet was the Father's voice

Representative text

As printed in The Church Hymnal (1941), no. 570 — the newest hymnal carrying it.

Verse 1

O tender and sweet was the Father's voice As He lovingly called to me, "Come over the line, it is only a step; I'm waiting, My child, for thee."

Refrain

"Over the line," hear the sweet refrain; Angels are chanting the heavenly strain; "Over the line" — Why should I remain With a step between me and Jesus?

Verse 2

"But my sins are so many, my faith so small" — Lo! the answer came quick and clear, "Thou needest not trust in thyself at all; Step over the line. I'm here."

Verse 3

"But my flesh is so feeble," with tears I said, "And the pathway I cannot see; I fear if I try I may sadly fail, And thus dishonor Thee."

Verse 4

The world is so cold I cannot go back, Press forward I surely must; I'll lay my weak hand in His wounded palm, Step over the line and trust.