English poem
Will Ye Also Go Away?
by John Newton (1725–1807)
When any turn from Zion’s way— Alas! what numbers do!— Methinks I hear my Saviour say, “Wilt thou forsake me too?”
Ah, Lord! with such a heart as mine, Unless thou hold me fast, I feel I must, I shall decline, And prove like them at last.
Yet thou alone hast power, I know, To save a wretch like me; To whom, or whither, could I go, If I should turn from thee?
Beyond a doubt I rest assured Thou art the Christ of God, Who hast eternal life secured By promise and by blood.
The help of men and angels join’d Could never reach my case; Nor can I hope relief to find But in thy boundless grace.
No voice but thine can give me rest, And bid my fears depart; No love but thine can make me bless’d. And satisfy my heart.
What anguish has that question stirr’d, If I will also go? Yet, Lord, relying on thy word, I humbly answer—No.