English poem
On WORSHIP
by Anonymous
The Worship, Heav'n with Approbation crowns, Consisteth not in Cringes, or in Sounds; In Ceremonies, or in Cut of Coat, Nor in long Pray'rs, expressed all by Rote; 'Tis not perform'd with tuned Instrument In costly Domes, Houses magnificent, Which strike the Senses, and Affections draw Into a superstitious lifeless Awe; But unreforms, and leaves the Soul as poor, As impotent, and filthy as before.
No! genuine WORSHIP is a nobler Thing, LOVE's its Original and only Spring; It is perform'd in Spirit and in Heart, By th' Ability GOD doth Himself impart; And it consisteth in a holy living, In Pray'r, in Praise, and true Thanksgiving.