Andrew Barton Paterson ('Banjo')

Here you will find the Poem He Giveth His Beloved Sleep of poet Andrew Barton Paterson ('Banjo')

He Giveth His Beloved Sleep

The long day passes with its load of sorrow: 
In slumber deep 
I lay me down to rest until tomorrow -- 
Thank God for sleep. 
Thank God for all respite from weary toiling, 
From cares that creep 
Across our lives like evil shadows, spoiling 
God's kindly sleep. 

We plough and sow, and, as the hours grow later, 
We strive to reap, 
And build our barns, and hope to build them greater 
Before we sleep. 

We toil and strain and strive with one another 
In hopes to heap 
Some greater share of profit than our brother 
Before we sleep. 

What will it profit that with tears or laughter 
Our watch we keep? 
Beyond it all there lies the Great Hereafter! 
Thank God for sleep! 

For, at the last, beseeching Christ to save us 
We turn with deep 
Heartfelt thanksgiving unto God, who gave us 
The Gift of Sleep.