O God! by whom the seed is given

O God! by whom the seed is given. Reginald Heber* (1783-1826).   This is from Heber’s Hymns written and adapted to the Weekly Church Services of the Year (1827), the book published by Heber’s widow Amelia in the year following his death. It was entitled ‘Sexagesima Sunday’. It had three stanzas:  O God! by whom the seed is given;   By whom the harvest blest; Whose word, like manna shower’d from Heaven,   Is planted in our breast;  Preserve it from the passing feet,   And plunderers of the air; The sultry sun’s intenser heat,   And weeds of worldly care!  Though buried deep or thinly strewn,   Do Thou Thy grace supply; The hope in earthly furrows sown   Shall ripen in the sky!   In The Book...