University of Virginia Library


372

CLXVI. FOR THE FEAR OF GOD.

God of all grace, and majesty,
Supremely great, and good,
If I have favour found with Thee,
Through the atoning blood;
The guard of all Thy mercies give,
And to my pardon join
A fear, lest I should ever grieve
The gracious Spirit Divine.
If mercy is indeed with Thee,
May I obedient prove,
Nor e'er abuse my liberty,
Or sin against Thy love:
This choicest fruit of faith bestow
On a poor sojourner,
And let me pass my days below
In humbleness and fear.
Rather I would in darkness mourn
The absence of Thy peace,
Than e'er by light irreverence turn
Thy grace to wantonness:
Rather I would in painful awe
Beneath Thine anger move,
Than e'er reject the gospel-law
Of liberty and love.
But oh! Thou wouldst not have me live
In bondage, grief, and pain,
Thou dost not take delight to grieve
The helpless sons of men:

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Thy will is my salvation, Lord,
And let it now take place,
And let me tremble at Thy word
Of reconciling grace.
Still may I walk as in Thy sight,
My strict Observer see,
And Thou by reverent love unite
My child-like heart to Thee.
Still let me, till my days are past,
At Jesu's feet abide,
So shall He lift me up at last,
And seat me by His side.