David Gay writes: 'Admitting the truth of the observation that, in our weaker moments, many of us have tried our hand at hymn writing, I am no exception. Here are thirty-five of my compositions, with a further twenty-seven from others. I do not publish my efforts, I hasten to add, with any illusions as to my talent as a versifier... It is the doctrine that they convey which interests me. Above all, I want to speak of Christ. My aim is clear. There are thousands of excellent hymns, but, to my mind, far too few which expressly set out the leading truths of the theology of the new covenant. This is grievous. Since I am convinced that most believers take their doctrine not from theological books, not from the Confessions, not even from sermons, but from the hymnbook, we cannot have too many spiritual songs which highlight the glorious themes of the new covenant'.