1 

"Keep the incense burning"

   On the altar fire;

Let thy heart's petition,

   Let thy deep desire,

Be a cloud of incense

   Wreathing God's own throne,

Till His will among us

   Shall be fully done.

 2 

"Keep the incense burning"

   On the altar fire;

Feed the flame, Lord Jesus,

   Till Thy whole desire

Shall in us, Thy children,

   Find free course, and be

Breathed through lips anointed

   For this ministry.

 3 

"Keep the incense burning"

   Though the faith be weak;

Though in words thou canst not

   All thy longings speak;

Silent heart-petitions,

   Spirit-taught, will be

Gloriously answered;

   Wrought by God for thee.

 4 

"Keep the incense burning,"

   Hourly let it rise,

Till from opened heavens,

   Till from flame-swept skies,

Fire shall fall and kindle

   All hearts to a flame;

Making us a glory

   To our Savior's name.