The Southern harmony, and musical companion containing a choice collection of tunes, hymns, psalms, odes, and anthems |
 | 1. |
[Afflictions, though they seem severe] |
| 2. |
|
 | The Southern harmony, and musical companion |  |
28
[Afflictions, though they seem severe]
[1]
Afflictions, though they seem severe,Are oft in mercy sent,
They stopp'd the prodigal's career,
And caused him to repent.
[2]
Although he no relenting feltTill he had spent his store,
His stubborn heart began to melt
When famine pinch'd him sore
3
What have I gain'd by sin, he said,But hunger, shame, and fear?
My father's house abounds with bread,
Whilst I am starving here.
4
I'll go and tell him all I've done,Fall down before his face,
Not worthy to be called his son,
I'll ask a servant's place.
5
He saw his son returning back,He look'd, he ran, he smiled,
And threw his arms around the neck
Of his rebellious child.
6
Father, I've sinn'd, but O forgive.And thus the father said;
Rejoice, my house! my son's alive,
For whom I mourn'd as dead.
7
Now let the fatted calf be slain,Go spread the news abroad,
My son was dead, but lives again,
Was lost, but now is found.
8
'Tis thus the Lord himself reveals,To call poor sinners home,
More than the father's love he feels,
And bids the sinner come
| The Southern harmony, and musical companion | |