I LOVE and honour a poor humble state, Because my Saviour Jesus Christ was poor; And riches, too, that help us to abate The miseries which other men endure. I render back no injuries again, Because I wish the doer's case like mine; In which, nor good nor evil, as from men, Is minded much, but from a Hand Divine. I aim sincerely to be just and true; For my good-will to all mankind extends: A tenderness of heart, I think, is due, Where stricter ties unite me to my friends. Whether in conversation or alone, Still to my mind God's presence I recal: My actions wait the judgment of his throne, And 'tis to Him I consecrate them all. These are my thoughts, and briefly thus display'd; I thank my Saviour for them ev'ry day; Who, of a poor, weak, sinful man, has made A man exempt from vice's evil sway. Such is the force of His inspiring grace! For all my good to that alone I owe; Since, if my own corrupted self I trace, I'm nothing else but misery and woe. |