University of Virginia Library

2553.

[The wisdom of our God adore]

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings, &c. —ix. 1.

The wisdom of our God adore
Who laughs to scorn the rage of man,
Lets loose the persecutor's power,
Slackens the hellish murderer's chain,
But by their vain designs o'erthrown
He serves and stablishes His own.
The sacrilegious power bestow'd
By priestly hate on furious Saul,
Marks out the instrument of God,
Just ready for his second call;

233

The mission dire by Satan given
Conducts him to his Lord from heaven.
The war against Thy people dear
Jesus, Thou turn'st into their peace,
And Satan's fiercest messenger
Deserting doth their joy increase,
Their souls with stronger comforts bless'd,
With stronger tastes of glorious rest.