A CAUTION AGAINST DESPAIR.
I
Despair is a cowardly Thing,
And the Spirit suggesting it bad;
In spite of my Sins I will sing,
That Mercy is still to be had.
II
For He that has shown it so far,
As to give me a sensible Heart,
How heinous soever they are,
Delights in the merciful Part.
III
By Affliction, so heavy to bear,
He searches the Wound He would cure;
'Tis His to be kindly severe,
'Tis mine by His Grace to endure.
IV
O comfort thyself in His Love,
Poor sinful and sorrowful Soul,
Who came, and still comes, from above
To the Sick that would fain be made whole!
V
Who said, and continues to say,
In the Deep of a penitent Breast:
“Come, Sinner, to Me come away:
I'll meet thee, and bring thee to Rest.”
VI
A Refusal to come is absurd;
I'll put myself under his Care;
I'll believe His Infallible Word,
And never, no, never despair.
