PSALM 36. v. 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9. (C. M.) Practical Atheism exposed; or, the Being and Attributes of God asserted.
I
While men grow bold in wicked ways,
And yet a God they own,
My heart within me often says,
‘Their thoughts believe there's none.’
II
Their thoughts and ways at once declare
(Whate'er their lips profess)
God hath no wrath for them to fear,
Nor will they seek his grace.
III
What strange self-flattery blinds their eyes!
But there's an hast'ning hour
When they shall see with sore surprise
The terrors of thy power.
IV
Thy justice shall maintain its throne,
Tho' mountains melt away;
Thy judgments are a world unknown,
A deep unfathom'd sea.
V
Above the heavens created rounds,
Thy mercies, Lord, extend;
Thy truth outlives the narrow bounds
Where time and nature end.
VI
Safety to man thy goodness brings,
Nor overlooks the beast;
Beneath the shadow of thy wings
Thy children choose to rest.
VII
From thee, when creature-streams run low,
And mortal comforts die,
Perpetual springs of life shall flow,
And raise our pleasures high.
VIII
Tho' all created light decay,
And death close up our eyes,
Thy presence makes eternal day
Where clouds can never rise.
