389.
[What precious promises abound]
“Precious Promises.” 2 Peter, i. 4.
1
What precious promises abound
In that bless'd book, which all should prize;
A mine, where countless gems are found,
And where the deepest wisdom lies!
2
If men with poverty contend,
God's blessing is the greatest gain:
Our heavenly master is our friend,
And none shall serve him, and complain.
3
The good, design'd, may not proceed
Just in the way we deem the best,
Yet Faith can see a Father lead,
And on his faithfulness can rest.
4
Do sorrows press the righteous down,
While in their sojourn here below?
We read of an immortal crown,
And streams of joy that ever flow.
5
Do widows combat with distress?
What precious words are those we see!
A Father to the fatherless,
And let the widow trust in me!
6
Does sickness on our vitals prey,
And the weak frame in languor lie?
God can transform our night to day,
And, in the desert, springs supply.
7
Must death at length the victory gain,
And we confess his sovereign power?
The strongest promises remain,
To soothe us in that trying hour!
8
Faint not! dismiss your faithless fear!
Though others sink, with dread opprest,
Be not dismay'd, for I am near,
The Rock on which your souls may rest!
9
When passing Jordan's waters wide,
The billow shall assault in vain!
My faith shall cheer, my hand shall guide,
My smiles your sinking heart sustain.
10
With such encouragements, to men
Who truly in their Lord rejoice,
Let us, our three-score years and ten
Fulfil, without a murmuring voice!
11
These transitory conflicts o'er,
In exile call'd no more to roam,
God and the Lamb shall we adore,
And saints and angels hail us home.
