English poem
Christian Songs, Song XLI
by John Glas (1809–1894)
When Isr'el marched thro' the sea; Their way by heav'n prepar'd; Between them, and their foes, they had JEHOVAH their rear-guard.
2 The cloud of glory mov'd behind, And by its splendor bright, Spread light, and joy, o'er all the host; Dispelling far the night.
3 Yet that same cloud a gloomy side Presented to their foes; Height'ning the horrors of the night; Presaging deeper woes.
4 So, that same glorious word of grace, By which the Lord leads forth From Babel's bondage, his redeem'd, To glory in his worth,
5 Spreads light before, and guards behind; At once, a wall of fire To shield them round, and in the midst Their glory and desire;
6 Ev'n that same word, spreads darkness wide O'er Antichrist's domain; And, blasting all their glory, makes Them gnaw their tongues for pain.
7 Then, fear them not, but follow on Where that word points the way: Soon comes the Lord to crush his foes; And give his friends the sway.