Part 51 (1/2)

Imperfection of nature, and perfection of scripture.

Ver. 96. paraphrased.

1 Let all the heathen writers join To form one perfect book, Great G.o.d, if once compar'd with thine, How mean their writings look!

2 Not the most perfect rules they gave Could shew one sin forgiven, Nor lead a step beyond the grave; But thine conduct to heaven.

3 I've seen an end of what we call Perfection here below; How short the powers of nature fall, And can no farther go!

4 Yet men would fain be just with G.o.d By works their hands have wrought; But thy commands, exceeding broad, Extend to every thought.

5 In vain we boast perfection here, While sin defiles our frame, And sinks our virtues down so far, They scarce deserve the name.

6 Our faith and love, and every grace, Fall far below thy word; But perfect truth and righteousness Dwell only with the Lord.

Psalm 119:08. Eighth Part.

The word of G.o.d is the saint's portion; or, The excellency and variety of scripture.

Ver. 111. paraphrased.

1 Lord, I have made thy word my choice, My lasting heritage; There shall my n.o.blest powers rejoice, My warmest thoughts engage.

2 I'll read the histories of thy love, And keep thy laws in sight, While thro' the promises I rove, With ever fresh delight.

3 'Tis a broad land of wealth unknown Where springs of life arise, Seeds of immortal bliss are sown, And hidden glory lies.

4 The best relief that mourners have, It makes our sorrows blest; Our fairest hope beyond the grave, And our eternal rest.

Psalm 119:09. Ninth Part.

Desire of knowledge; or, The teachings of the Spirit with the word.

Ver. 64 66 18.

1 Thy mercies fill the earth, O Lord, How good thy works appear!

Open mine eyes to read thy word, And see thy wonders there.

Ver. 73 125.

2 My heart was fas.h.i.+on'd by thy hand, My service is thy due: O make thy servant understand The duties he must do.

Ver. 19.

3 Since I'm a stranger here below, Let not thy path be hid; But mark the road my feet should go, And be my constant guide.

Ver. 26.

4 When I confess'd my wandering ways, Thou heardst my soul complain; Grant me the teachings of thy grace, Or I shall stray again.

Ver. 33 34.

5 If G.o.d to me his statutes shew, And heavenly truth impart, His work for ever I'll pursue, His laws shall rule my heart.

Ver. 50 71.

6 This was my comfort when I bore Variety of grief; It made me learn thy word the more, And fly to that relief.

Ver. 51.

7 [In vain the proud deride me now; I'll ne'er forget thy law, Nor let that blessed gospel go Whence all my hopes I draw.