Song 13

Why should I say, "`Tis yet too soon "To seek for heaven or think of death?" A flower may fade before `tis noon, And I this day may lose my breath.

If this rebellious heart of mine, Despise the gracious calls of Heaven; I may be hard'ned in my sin, And never have repentance given.

What if the Lord grow wroth, and swear While I refuse to read and pray, That he'll refuse to lend an ear, To all my groans another day?

What if his dreadful anger burn, While I refuse his offer'd grace, And all his love to fury turn, And strike me dead upon the place?

'Tis dangerous to provoke a God; His power and vengeance none can tell: One stroke of his almighty rod Shall send young sinners quick to hell.

Then `twill for ever be in vain To cry for pardon or for grace, To wish I had my time again, Or hope to see my Maker's face.

Song 14. Examples of early piety.

What blest examples do I find Writ in the Word of Truth, Of children that began to mind Religion in their youth.

Jesus, who reigns above the skie, And keeps the world in awe; Was once a child as young as I, And kept his Father's law.

At twelve years old he talk'd with men, (The Jews all wondering stand;) Yet he obey'd his Mother then, And came at her command.

Children a sweet hosanna sung, And blest their Saviour's name; They gave him honour with their tongue While scribes and priests blaspheme.

Samuel the child was wean'd, and brought To wait upon the Lord; Young Timothy betimes was taught To know his holy Word.

Then why should I so long delay What others learn so soon? I would not pass another day Without this work begun.