Hymns for the Amusement of Children (1791)/Temperance
HYMN VII.
TEMPERANCE.
For forty days the Lord abstain'd,
(The subtle tempter near)
And greatly every bait disdain'd,
Self — aw'd and self — severe.
5 This is the pattern that I set,
To keep the flesh in awe;
I will not gross desires abet,
Withdraw, soul fiend, withdraw.
The fiend withdrew, the Angels came,
10 And worship'd at his feet;
"O great Jehovah, word and name
"Inestimably sweet!
"How cou'd that cursed serpent dare,
15 "Thine honour to offend?"
Says Christ, a little while forbear,
'Tis for a glorious end.
O may I keep the body cool,
By fasting on my knees;
And follow strict religion's rule,
20 Those days the church decrees.
Keep, keep intemp'rance far away,
'Tis duty and 'tis love;
Or how shall I my breast display,
To nest my Saviour's dove.
Notes
This work was published before January 1, 1929, and is in the public domain worldwide because the author died at least 100 years ago.
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