Just last night my copy of The Hymns of Philip Doddridge came in the mail, and I was straightway taken in. Doddridge (1702-1751) was mentored by Watts and was a prominent Dissenting minister in England. This volume is a reprint of the posthumously published volume of Doddridge’s hymns with a brief biographical sketch added. The hymns are arranged canonically according to the texts from which each hymn was drawn.

The are rich poems very valuable for meditation (not to mention singing). Here is one where Doddridge contemplates 2 Timothy 2:19:

But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.”

The Stability of the Divine Foundation, and Its Double Inscription

(2 Timothy 2:19)

To THEE, great Architect on high,

Immortal thanks be paid,

Who, to support Thy sinking saints,

This firm foundation laid.

2. Fix’d on a Rock Thy gospel stands,

And braves the rage of hell;

And, while the Saviour’s hand protects,

His blood cements it well.

3. Here will I build my final hope;

Here rest my weary soul;

Majestic shall the fabric rise,

Till glory crown the whole.

4. Deep on my heart, all-gracious Lord,

Engrave its double seal;

Which, while it speaks Thy honor’d name,

Its sacred use may tell.

5. Dear by a thousand tender bonds,

Thy saints to Thee are known;

And, conscious what a name they bear,

Iniquity they shun.

This is a great book and wonderful devotional resource.