John W. Peterson

God, the All Wise and Creator of the human intellect,
Guide our search for truth and knowledge, all our thoughts and ways direct.
Help us build the towers of learning that would make us wise, astute,
On the rock of holy Scripture – truth revealed and absolute.

O how vast the shores of learning – there are still uncharted seas,
And they call to bold adventure, those who turn from sloth and ease.
But we need Thy hand to guide us, in the studies we pursue,
And the presence of Thy Spirit, to illumine all we do.

May the things we learn, so meager, never lift our hearts in pride,
Till in foolish self-reliance, we would wander from Thy side.
Let them only bind us closer, Lord, to Thee in whom we find,
A very fountainhead of wisdom, light and life to all mankind.

—John W. Peterson