What a blessing, what a priv'lege (Hymn 848)

Verse 1: What a blessing, what a priv'lege! Called of God a royal priest, That this glorious, holy office I should bear, though last and least. Verse 2: If I keep this royal calling Under Thine authority, Priestly duty thus fulfilling, Then the church will builded be. Verse 3: Now the church is but the priesthood; Thus the priesthood formed we need; When the priests are knit together, Then the church is built indeed. Verse 4: Through the church's degradation, Saints this office desolate; Through the weakness of their spirits Preaching doth predominate. Verse 5: Most are leaning on the message And the preaching emphasize, Yet neglect the priestly praying And their spirits' exercise. Verse 6: Deal with me and make me balanced, As in preaching, so in prayer; Leading others oft in praying, As Thy Word I too declare. Verse 7: Only serving by our praying Will our spirits mingled be; Stressing prayer as much as preaching— Thus the church is built for Thee.