The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. Containing, besides his Sermons, and Essays on miscellaneous subjects, several additional pieces, Selected from his Manuscripts by the Rev. Dr. Jennings, and the Rev. Dr. Doddridge, in 1753: to which are prefixed, memoirs of the life of the author, compiled by the Rev. George Burder. In six volumes |
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PSALM 12. (C. M.) Complaint of a general Corruption of Manners;
or, the Promise and Signs of Christ's coming to Judgment.
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 | The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. |  |
PSALM 12. (C. M.) Complaint of a general Corruption of Manners; or, the Promise and Signs of Christ's coming to Judgment.
I
Help, Lord, for men of virtue fail,Religion loses ground;
The sons of violence prevail,
And treacheries abound.
II
Their oaths and promises they break,Yet act the flatterer's part;
With fair deceitful lips they speak,
And with a double heart.
III
If we reprove some hateful lie,How is their fury stirr'd!
‘Are not our lips our own,’ they cry,
‘And who shall be our Lord?’
IV
Scoffers appear on every side,Where a vile race of men
Is rais'd to seats of power and pride
And bears the sword in vain.
V
Lord, when iniquities abound,And blasphemy grows bold,
When faith is hardly to be found,
And love is waxing cold,
VI
Is not thy chariot hast'ning on?Hast thou not given this sign?
May we not trust and live upon
A promise so divine?
VII
‘Yes,’ saith the Lord, ‘now will I rise,‘And make oppressors flee;
‘I shall appear to their surprise,
‘And set my servants free.’
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VIII
Thy word, like silver seven times try'd,Thro' ages shall endure;
The men that in thy truth confide
Shall find the promise sure.
| The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | |