On what foundation do you build, neighbor,
Your hopes for the future fair?
Do you walls reach down to the rock below
And rest securely there?
Sad wrecks lie 'round you on the sand, neighbor,
The floods and the storms are near,
Will the strong blast hurl to the earth thy walls
Or blanch thy cheek with fear?

On what foundation do you build, neighbor,
Your hopes for the future fair?
Do you walls reach down to the rock below
And rest securely there?

On sure foundation would you build, neighbor,
Take heed to the Lord's commands.
Ever fast and firm while the storms go on by
This rock of ages stands.
Alas, what folly 'tis to build, neighbor,
A mansion so fair, so great
With its costly walls and its lofty towers
On sin's delusive sand.

(chorus)