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 |
IV. |
The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | ||
SONG 22. Against Pride in Clothes.
I
Why should our garments made to hideOur parents shame, provoke our pride?
The art of dress did ne'er begin,
Till Eve our mother learnt to sin.
II
When first she put the cov'ring on,Her robe of innocence was gone;
And yet her children vainly boast
In the sad marks of glory lost.
III
How proud we are! how fond to shewOur clothes, and call them rich and new!
When the poor sheep and silk-worm wore
That very clothing long before.
IV
The tulip and the butterflyAppear in gayer coats than I:
Let me be drest fine as I will,
Flies, worms and flowers, exceed me still.
V
Then will I set my heart to findInward adornings of the mind;
Knowledge and virtue, truth and grace:
These are the robes of richest dress.
VI
No more shall worms with me compare,This is the raiment angels wear;
The Son of God, when here below,
Put on this blest apparel too.
VII
It never fades, it ne'er grows old,Nor fears the rain, nor moth, nor mould:
It takes no spot, but still refines,
The more 'tis worn, the more it shines.
VIII
In this on earth would I appear,Then go to heaven, and wear it there:
God will approve it in his sight,
'Tis his own work, and his delight.
The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | ||