Like most Isaac Watts hymns, this one uses multiple bible references, including Galatians 6:14: “But far be it from me to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”

 

When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died; my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, save in the death of Christ my God: all the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to his blood.

See, from his head, his hands, his feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down; did e’er such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were a present far too small; love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.

 

The writer repents of pride, boasting, and vain things that charm. He confesses Christ as God, the Prince of glory, and Lord.  He writes that the blood of Christ was caused by both sorrow over man’s sinful nature and even greater love for those created in His image.  And, the gift offered by Jesus cannot be repaid, ever.  My proper response of gratitude is to offer my whole self.