The poetical works of John and Charles Wesley :: :: University of Virginia Library

PSALM CXL.

[Save me, Lord, from all my foes]

Save me, Lord, from all my foes;
Men of lawless might are they,
Sworn my helpless soul to' oppose,
Turn out of the narrow way;
Serpent-like their tongues they dart,
Speak the poison of their heart.

Keep me from the hands of men;
Make me Thy continual care;
Render all their counsels vain,
Show me every secret snare
Spread to catch my soul; and set
Firm upon the Rock my feet.

Oft I to the Lord have said,
“Thee my Saviour-God I own;
Hear and hasten to my aid,
Make Thy mighty mercies known;
Strength of my salvation, come,
Seal the adversary's doom!

“In the dreadful day of fight,
Thou hast screen'd me heretofore;
Still protect me with Thy might,
Save me from the tempter's power,

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All Thy strength for me employ,
Satan and his works destroy!”

Sure I am, divinely sure,
Help I have not ask'd in vain;
God shall vindicate the poor,
God shall still my cause maintain;
On the Lord I dare rely,
Poor, and weak, and helpless I!

Yes: the justified shall give
Thanks and praises to Thy name;
Still before Thee walk and live,
All Thy faithfulness proclaim,
Till they gain the mountain's height,
Number'd with the saints in light.