® <2> ® * ® ® <§> ® ® ® ® LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, Cljnp. ©op^riQ^t ¥}n. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. MAR 20 \M SOI]&S \ OF Tf}UST. COMPILED BY ELIZABETH S. GOODYEAR. BOSTON : James H. Earle, Publisher, 178 Washington Street. 1886. Copyright, 1886. By James H. Earle. All rights reserved. Prefatory Note. This little volume is sent forth with the earnest prayer that it may prove a source of comfort and strength to weary hearts, through the triumphs of Christian faith. TABLE OF CONTENTS. Art thou weak, afflicted soul 31 Above the Master calleth thee 62 Beside the toilsome way 33 Birds have their quiet nest 56 Brother, in thy day of need 77 Be faithful to the end no Come, my soul, forget thy sadness 23 Calm me, my God, and keep me calm 50 Courage, poor way-worn soul 86 Child of the undimmed, trustful eye 89 Dear Lord, behold, I humbly wait 45 Draw me nearer, O my Saviour 102 Doubt is the nerveless arm that hangs and quakes . .114 Day set upon Mount Olivet's brow 117 Each heavy cross the back is forced to bear . . . .116 For what shall I praise thee, my God and my King ? . 39 Father, to thee I bring 119 Hope while there's a hand to strike 11 Heavier the cross, the nearer heaven 87 i know not what the future holds 22 i cannot, cannot say 27 i cannot say 29 Into thy hands, my God 32 i am so weak, dear lord, i cannot stand 44 i have toiled at my work all day, father 52 i did not ask thee, lord, to give 55 I said, sweet Master, hear me pray 70 Is this the way, my Father ? 79 " i would it were yesterday," i said 91 i am waiting, humbly waiting 92 1 am bringing my child to the heavenly land . . . .121 Just to let my Father do 95 drol, teach me how to trust thee 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS. Leave all to God 85 Lord, I believe that thou hast died 100 Laid on Thy altar, O my Lord divine 101 My life is like that garment strange 41 My heart was like to break 57 My God with me in every place 105 My suffering child, thy days of grief are o'er . . . 122 Not disabled from the service 38 Never despair while there's one gleam of sunlight, 82 Oh, trust thyself to Jesus 12 oh, could i but be certain 64 Oil, 'T IS A THOUGHT MOST PRECIOUS 8l Oh, fear not thou to die 84 Only a seed! But it chanced to fall 120 "Rock of Ages, cleft for me" . 48 Return, return thee to thy only rest 79 Sometime, when all life's lessons have been learned, 9 Slowly had passed the hours of day 17 Shut in, shut in from the ceaseless din 34 Since thy Father's arm sustains thee 59 Though the years are dark with sorrow 7 Think'st thou 'mid flowery fields it lies? 21 "'Tis only a half day's work" 53 Thorny the path I tread 63 There's never a day so sunny 71 Trembling against the nursery-wall 9S Thou knowest, Lord, the thousand pitfalls that beset, 109 This day vouchsafe to keep me without sin 67 Upon my forehead set thy seal, O Lord 69 Weary of life's burden 15 We say them oft, the two small words 35 What though I pass life's crowded mart 42 We will never give thee up! O, thou sadly erring one, 72 With thy strong arm, Lord, shut me in 104 Why art thou sorrowful, servant of God 107 Weary and sad I stand alone 112 SONGS OF TRUST. CREDO. HOUGH the years are dark with sorrow, And the way is hard to see — Though the tears, down-falling, blind me, Looking heavenward for thee ; Yet, that thou art waiting, watching, Noting all the tears that fall, And that thou wilt give me loving, Tender comfort for them all — I believe, Lord, I believe. Though I weary in the striving, Though I falter in the ^ay ; Though, in paths I should not ent< r, Heedlessly I often stray ; Yet, that thou art still beside me, Tender, pitying, without blame, SONGS OF TRUST. And that weary, straying, halting, Thou dost love me still the same — I believe, Lord, I believe. Though life's threads seem often tangled, Some too weak, and some too strong, And the fabric they are weaving Looks as if it went all wrong ; Yet, that in thy clearer wisdom, Thou dost hold them in thy hand, And that, trusting in thee, some time I shall see and understand — I believe, Lord, I believe. Though I cannot see the blossoms Springing where I scatter seed, Though the flowers I try to bring thee Seem so very poor indeed ; Yet, that thou canst see the harvest, And dost cherish tenderly All the meagre, humble garlands, Which are my best gifts to thee-*— I believe, Lord, I believe. Though for dearest frends I sometimes Fain would give my life away, SOMETIME, And instead, to help or save them, Can do nothing more than pray; Yet, that thou dost hear the heart-blood Throbbing in the words that go Pleading, moaning, through the silence, And dost answer, even so — I believe, Lord, I believe. Though I often long and weary Just to come to thee and rest, To forget all pain and heart-ache, Lying on thy loving breast ; Yet, that when the work is over, And the busy years are past, In thine arms, O tender Saviour, Thou wilt give me rest at last — I believe, Lord, I believe. SOMETIME. JOMETIME, when all life's lessons have been learned, | And sun and stars for evermore have set, The things which our weak judgments here have spurned, IO SONGS OF TRUST. The things o'er which we grieved with lashes wet, Will flash before us out of Mfe's dark night, As stars shine most in deeper tints of blue, And we shall see how all God's plans were right, And how what seemed reproof was love most true. And we shall see how, while we frown and sigh, God's plans go on as best for you and me ; How, when we called, he heeded not our cry, Because his wisdom to the end could see. And e'en as prudent parents disallow Too much of sweet to craving babyhood, So God, perhaps, is keeping from us now Life's sweetest things, because it seemeth good. And if, sonetimes, commingled with life's wine, We find the wormwood, and rebel and shrink, Be sure a wiser hand than yours or mine Pours out this potion for our lips to drink. And if some friend we love is lying low, Where human kisses cannot reach his face, Oh, do not blame the loving Father so, But wear your sorrow with obedient grace ! And you shall shortly know that lengthened breath Is not the sweetest gift God sends his friend, And that sometimes the sable pall of Death "WATCHWORDS OF LIFE." II Conceals the fairest boon his love can send. If we could push ajar the gates of life, And stand within, and all God's workings see, We could interpret all this doubt and strife, And for each mystery could find a key. But not to-day. Then be content, poor heart ! God's plans, like lilies, pure and white unfold; We must not tear the close-shut leaves apart ; Time will reveal their calyxes of gold. And if, through patient toil, we reach the land Where tired feet, with sandals loosed, may rest, Where we shall clearly know and understand, I think that we shall say, "God knew the best." — Mrs. May Riley Smith. "WATCHWORDS OF LIFE." OPE, while there 's a hand to strike ! Dare, while there 's a young heart brave ! Toil, while there 's a task unwrought ! Trust, while there's a God to save! Learn, that there 's a work for each ! Feel, that there 's a strength in God ! Know, that there 's a crown reserved ! 12 SONGS OF TRUST. Wait, though 'neath the cloud and rod! Love, when there 's a foe that wrongs ! Help, when there 's a brother's need ! Watch, when there 's a tempter near ! Pray, both in thy word and deed ! WHEN TO TRUST JESUS. What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee." — Ps. 56:3. H, trust thyself to Jesus, When conscious of thy sin — Of its heavy weight upon thee, Of its mighty power within. Then is the hour for pleading His finished work for thee ; Then is the time for singing — "His blood was shed for me." Oh, trust thyself to Jesus When tempted to transgress, By hasty word, or angry look, Or thought of bitterness. Then is the hour for claiming Thy Lord to fight for thee ; Then is the time for singing, — "He doth deliver me," WHEN TO TRUST JESUS. 13 Oh, trust thyself to Jesus When daily cares perplex, And trifles seem to gain a power Thy inner soul to vex. Then is the hour for grasping His hand who walked the sea; Then is the time for singing, — "He makes it calm for me." Oh, trust thyself to Jesus - When some truth thou canst not see, For the mists of strife and error That veil its form from thee. Then is the hour for waiting On him to guide thee right; Then is the time for singing, — "The Lord shall be my light." Oh, trust thyself to Jesus When thou art tried with pain ; No power for prayer; the only thought, — How to endure the strain. Then is the time for resting In his perfect love to thee ; Then is the time for singing, — "He thinks, he prays for me." 14 SONGS OF TRUST. Oh, trust thyself to Jesus In days of feebleness ; When thou canst only dumbly feel Thy utter helplessness. Then is the hour for proving His mighty power in thee; Then is the time for singing, — "His grace sufficeth me/' Oh, trust thyself to Jesus When thou art wearied sore ; | When head or hand refuses To think or labor more. Then is the hour for leaning Upon the Master y s breast ; Then is the time for singing, — "My Saviour gives me rest." Oh, trust thyself to Jesus When thou art full of care For wanderers, whom thou canst not win, Our blessed hope to share. Then is the hour for trusting The Lord to bring them nigh ; Then is the time for singing, — "He loves them more than I." WEARY. 15 Oh, trust thyself to Jesus When loved ones pass away ; When very lonely seems thy life, And very dark thy way. Then is the hour for yielding Entirely to his will; Then is the time for singing, — " I have my Saviour still." Oh, trust thyself to Jesus As thy spirit takes its flight * From every earthly shadow To the land of perfect light. Then is the hour for feeling, — " Christ hath done all for me " ; Then is the time for singing, — "He gives the victory." WEARY. EARY of life's burden, I fain would lay it down ; Weary of the cross, I fain would take the crown. 1 6 SONGS OF TRUST. Weary of the conflict With myself and sin; Into thy perfect rest, I long to enter in. He, who ever hears, When his children cry, Bends, with pitying love, • From his throne on high ; And in tones that erst Stilled the tempest wild, — Gently, tenderly, Comforteth his child. "Art thou seeking rest Ere thy work is done? Asking for the crown Ere it hath been won? "Wherefore mournest thou Thus so bitterly? Hast thou found life's burden All too great for thee? "Is not its full weight To thy Father known? Must thou need'st rely On thy strength alone? A VIS 10 M 17 "Dost thou doubt my power? Dost thou question whether We, my child, can bear it, — Thou and I together f "Oh, press lovingly, Closer to my side, That thine every burden I may then divide." Not upon mine ear Fall these tones in vain; Joyfully the cross I take up again. Thankful, O my Father, Thankful for the load, That hath brought me nearer - Nearer to my God. A VISION. [LOWLY had passed the hours of day, And on a couch of pain I lay ; Longing for health and strength again, Feeling that life was lived in vain ; 1 8 SOAVS OF TRUST. Grieving that there was here no spot That sin and sorrow enter not ; And praying that the Lord would send To me, so lonely, one true friend. At last the shades of night came on, And, lying in my room alone, In that strange state wherein we dream, Though waking all our senses seem, A soft, clear light around me shone; — I felt that I was not alone. A radiant form seemed by my bed, An angel-hand upon my head; And looking up, with glad surprise, I met, it seemed, my mother's eyes. The love-light had not passed away, But shone on me with clearer ray Than when earth's shadows dimmed their sight, And clouded oft with tears their light. She laid my head upon her breast, Her lips upon my forehead pressed; And while within her arms I lay, Beseeching her with me to stay, Or take me back with her to rest In the bright home where all are blest, She soothed me as in days of old, A VIS 10 AT. 19 With loving words, until I told How, since she left me, all my life Had been one constant scene of strife; How I had sought for love, and found Reproach instead, until the sound Of loving words, to me, was like The notes of joy the angels strike. I told her how I 'd tried in vain To cleanse my heart and life from sin; And failing, all my nature cried For God himself ; — unsatisfied Until with his great fulness filled, My restless longings should be stilled. I asked of her to tell me why He seemed regardless of my cry; And, taking all I loved away, My sun had set while yet 'twas day. She answered : " Child of many prayers, For thee the heatenly Watcher cares ; And in the future thou shalt know What he has wisely hidden now : That all of earthly good or ill Happens according to his will, And will work out for good to those Who calmly in his love repose. 20 SONGS OF TRUST. But would'st thou find a balm for grief, And from thy sorrow sweet relief? Forget thyself; speak words of cheer To toiling ones, who wander here Through darker shades, with weary feet And aching hearts, whom thou wilt meet. If, like the Master, doing good Becomes thy spirit's daily food, Then should' st thou falter, and thy way Sometimes seem lone while far away Thy home appears, thy heavenly Friend, Unseen, is near ; and he will send Ministering ones to guard thy path, And lead thee through the gates of death To heaven's clear light, where thou shalt see How love has ordered all for thee." Her gentle voice dispelled my fears, Her loving hand dried all my tears. She prayed, "O Father, bless my child, And lead her, pure and undefiled, Through earthly snares, and give her strength To overcome, and wear at length The victor's crown, which shall be given To all, through Christ, who enter heaven." I wakened at the words of prayer, — THE PATH THAT LEADS TO HEAVEN. 21 No sound I heard, no form was near; Yet, the sweet dream was not in vain : No more I ask relief from pain, But with each token of God's love, I pray that wisdom from above May guide me to those realms of light, To wear Christ's gift — a robe of white. THE PATH THAT LEADS TO HEAVEN. |HINK'ST thou 'mid flowery fields it lies, The path thine eager spirit tries, Where faith and hope have striven ? Think'st thou the skies are always clear, That love and joy are always near The path that leads to heaven ? And sweetly in that narrow way, Must dear ones greet thee day by day? Ah, no ! By tempests driven, The storm-cloud hovers o'er thy path, Which seems to thee the way of wrath, The path that leads to heaven. 22 SONGS OF TRUST. And graves are there, and sighs, and tears, And sickness, with its train of fears, And hearts with anguish riven ; And martyrs' blood, and dying groans, And dark with woes the world disowns The path that leads to heaven. Yes, 't is the way, the way to God, The way the ancient worthies trod, Where they have fought and striven ; The way Christ opened when he died ; And shall we fear the path He tried, — The path that leads to heaven ? No, weary pilgrim, hasten on ; Thy day of toil is almost gone; Yon western clouds are given, With gold and purple on their breast, As emblems of the morrow's rest, — That calm, sweet rest of heaven. TRUST. KNOW not what the future holds, Of good or ill, for me and mine ; I only know that God enfolds Me in his loving arms divine ! THE BURDEN-BEARER, 2$ So shall I walk the earth, in trust, That he who notes the sparrow's fall Will help me bear whate'er I must, And lend an ear whene'er I call. It matters not if dreams dissolve Like mists beneath the morning sun, For, swiftly as the worlds revolve, So swiftly will life's race be run. It matters not if hopes depart, Or life be pressed with grief and care, If love divine shall fill my heart, And all be sanctified with prayer. Then let me learn submission sweet In every thought, in each desire, And humbly lay at his dear feet, A heart aglow with heavenly fire. THE BURDEN-BEARER. |OME, my soul, forget thy sadness, Pine with grief and care no more ; Wake thy grateful song of gladness, Caught from yonder happy shore. 24 SONGS OF TRUST. Though thy day be lone and weary, There shall come the rest of night ; Anthems, sweet, and pure, and cheery, Greet thee from the world of light. Saints have gone where thou art going, All thy path their feet have trod ; And their footprints still are glowing With the radiant smile of God. Look to Jesus ! See him languish Through a life of burdened years ; See his garden-cup of anguish ! See his cross of blood and tears ! See him in the grave of mortals, Buried, shrouded, all alone ! See him burst death's rocky portals ! See him on his Father's throne ! Oh, my soul ! with Jesus near thee, Pine not, sigh not, nor despair; In all sorrow never fear thee, — Christ shall every burden bear. THE SIMPLICITY OF FAITH. 2$ THE SIMPLICITY OF FAITH. jORD, teach me how to trust thee, And how less unbelieving be ; To place on thine unerring care Those most I love, and leave them there. For faith is not a mere belief That thou canst aid in bitter grief. Ah, no ! for greater blessings, Lord, Are promised in thy gracious Word. 'T is grasping thee, when all are gone ; 'T is viewing thee, when quite alone ; 'T is pillowing on thine unseen arm, Supported there, and free from harm. 'Tis calm assurance, "All is well," Though how or where I cannot tell ; 'T is hearkening, when no voice I hear ; 'T is smiling, though I weep and fear ; 'T is living in thy blessed sight, Where'er I breathe, by day or night; *T is drinking in thy tender love, From all below and all above ; 'T is putting on the garment white, Preparing for the blissful sight Of that rejoicing, glorious feast, 26 SONGS OF TRUST. Which saints will share, from great to least; *T is cleansing in thy blood each stain, And knowing pardon, peace again ; *T is deep remorse, yet grateful song ; 'T is utter weakness, yet so strong ; 'T is stepping right, though burdened sore ; 'T is hating sin yet more and more ; 'T is fighting hard, and yet at rest ; 'T is broken-hearted, and yet blest ; 'T is loving with unuttered love, Though hard the heart and slow to move; 'T is telling thee my every thought ; 'T is finding all I 've ever sought ; 'T is treading on through life's lone walk, In sweet companionship and talk ; 'T is joining in the angels' praise; 'T is fixing high my eager gaze, Where all is boundless love and peace, And freedom marks the soul's release. 'Tis hurrying to glorious end; 'T is pressing towards my bosom Friend ; 'T is meeting him, — come, Jesus, come ! 'T is folding tent and reaching home. My Father, I mtist weary thee, For faith like this was bought for me ; UNDER THE CROSS. 27 Beneath the cross I seek, I claim Such living faith in Jesus' name. UNDER THE CROSS. CANNOT, cannot say- Out of my bruised and breaking heart, Storm-driven along a thorn-set way, While blood-drops start From every pore as I drag on, — "Thy will, O God, be done." I cannot, in the wave Of my strange sorrow's fierce baptism, Look up to heaven with spirit brave, With holy chrism ; And, while the whelming rite goes on, Murmur, "God's will be done." I am not strong to bear This sudden blast of scorching breath, Which blossoms hope in black despair, And life in death ; I cannot say, without the sun, "My God, thy will be done." 28 SONGS OF TRUST. I thought, but yesterday, My will was one with God's dear will ; And that it would be sweet to say, — Whatever ill My happy state should smite upon, — "Thy will, my God, be done." But I was weak and wrong, Both weak of soul and wrong of heart ; And pride alone in me was strong, With cunning art To cheat me in the golden sun To say, "God's will be done." Oh, shadow ! drear and cold, That frights me out of foolish pride ; Oh, flood ! that through my bosom rolled Its billowy tide; I said, till ye your power made known, " God's will, not mine, be done." Now, faint and sore afraid, Under my cross, heavy and rude, My idols in the ashes laid, Like ashes strew'd, The holy words my pale lips shun, — "O God, thy will be done." AMEN! 29 Pity my woes, O God, And touch my will with thy warm breath ; Put in my trembling hand thy rod, That quickens death ; That my dead faith may feel thy sun And say, "Thy will be done." AMEN CANNOT say, Beneath the pressure of life's cares to-day, I joy in these; But I can say That I had rather walk this rugged way, If him it please. I cannot feel That all is well, when dark'ning clouds conceal The shining sun ; But then I know God lives and loves ; and say, since it is so, • • "Thy will be done." I cannot speak In happy tones ; the tear-drops on my cheek Show I am sad ; 30 SOA'GS OF TRUST. But I can speak Of grace to suffer with submission meek, Until made glad. I do not see Why God should e'en permit some things to be, When he is love ; But I can see, Though often dimly, through the mystery, His hand above. I do not know Where falls the seed that I have tried to sow With greatest care ; But I shall know The meaning of each waiting hour below, Sometime, somewhere. I do not look Upon the present, nor in Nature's book, To read my fate ; But I do look For promised blessings in God's Holy Book ; And I can wait. I may not try To keep the hot tears back, but hush that sigh, II It might have been " ; / AM. 3* And try to still Each rising murmur, and to God's sweet will Respond, " Amen." — F. G. Browning. I AM. RT thou weak, afflicted soul ? I am strong, to make thee whole Art thou sick, and hast no cure? I am thy Physician sure. Art thou fainting on thy road ? I am near, to bear thy load. Art thou hungry, thirsty, poor? I am rich, to bless thy store. Art thou much with grief oppressed ? I am come to give thee rest. Art thou weary of thy sin ? I am peace to thee within. I am ready at thy side, At thy right and left, to guide. I am life, and love, and peace, I am joy which ne'er shall cease. 32 SOATGS OF TRUST. INTO THY HANDS, MY GOD. |NTO thy hands, my God, I gladly fall, Resigning there my life, my will, my all ; Do as thou wilt, O Lord, for I am thine Whatever thy blest will, is also mine. Into thy hands, my God, for there, at length, Through my poor weakness shall I find thy strength Thy grace shall triumph over all my sin, And Christ's dear blood shall make me pure within. Into thy hands, my God, — those hands of love, Which sweetly reached and drew me from above; Those hands which countless daily mercies give, Those hands by which I every moment live. Into thy hands, my God, — my Father's hands ; Near them a loving Saviour, pleading, stands. Oh, love! he pleads for me, — how can I fear, With such a Father, such a Saviour, near? In thy dear hands, my God, there let me rest ; Send pain or sickness, if thou seest best ; Do as thou wilt, — thy love I cannot doubt, For perfect love casts fear and sadness out. Safe in thy hands, my God, a little child; I look to thee, through Jesus reconciled ; THE ANGEL OF PATIENCE. 33 I dare, for his dear sake, to call thee mine ; For this sweet bliss, I would all else resign. Into thy hands, my God, I cast my will ; Bid every murmuring, restless thought be still, My only wish, while on the narrow road, Tranquil to lie in thy dear hands, my God. THE ANGEL OF PATIENCE. ESIDE the toilsome way, Lowly and sad, by fruits and flowers un- blest, Which my worn feet tread sadly, day by day, Longing in vain for rest, An angel softly walks, With pale, sweet face, and eyes cast meekly down, The while from withered leaves and flowerless stalks, She weaves my fitting crown. A sweet and patient grace, A look of firm endurance, true and tried, Of suffering, meekly borne, rests on her face, So pure, so glorified. 34 SONGS OF TRUST. And when my fainting heart Desponds, and murmurs at its adverse fate, Then quietly the angel's bright lips part, Murmuring softly, "Wait." " Patience," she sweetly saith, " The Father's mercies never come too late ; Gird thee with patient strength, and trusting faith, And firm endurance, — wait." Angel, behold, I wait, — Wearing the thorny crown through all life's hours; Wait, till thy hand shall ope the eternal gate, And change the thorns to flowers. SHUT IN. [HUT in, shut in from the ceaseless din Of the restless world and its wants and sin ; Shut in from turmoil, care, and strife, And all the wearisome round of life. Shut in with tears that are spent in vain ; With the dull companionship of pain ; "laid aside: 9 35 Shut in with the changeless days and hours, And the bitter knowledge of failing powers. Shut in with dreams of days gone by, With buried joys, that were born to die ; Shut in with hopes that have lost their zest And leave but a longing after rest. Shut in with a trio of angels sweet, — Patience and Grace all pain to meet, With Faith that can suffer, and stand, and wait, And lean on the promises strong and great. Shut in with Christ ! Oh, wonderful thought ! Shut in with the peace his sufferings bought ; Shut in with the love that wields the rod; Oh, company blest ! Shut in with God. "LAID ASIDE." IE say them oft, the two small words ; Thinking of some who, lying still, May watch the reapers at their work, May only wait to know their Father's will. But by what right do we in judgment stand, And, looking o'er the harvest-field so wide, 36 SONGS OF TRUST. Say of those lives whose way we cannot know, These hath the Father's wisdom "laid aside "? They may not toil; their wasting hands lie still, And cannot glean the sheaves so white and fair; But shall we say that they are "laid aside " When God's own hand hath touched and placed them there ? Because their feet no longer come and go Among the sheaves that ripen 'neath the sun; Because their hands can neither sow nor glean, Is this the sign that work for them is done? Ah, no ! God does not count them laid aside Because his voice has bade them to lie still ; For, though they only wait with folded hands, It is enough that so they do his will. How shall we judge what task on earth is theirs? God does not measure by our human sight ; The work we count as nothing, in his hands May some day shine in radiance of ligfit. A life of waiting, lived as for the Lord, Shall never in his sight be wholly loss. Dost find it hard to wait ? Remember this : Our wills opposing God's will makes the cross. IN THE HOSPITAL. 37 God's plans are great and deep, his ways are wide ; We strive in vain his wHl to understand, Till, looking upward through the mist of doubt, We hear his loving voice and clasp his hand. He holds us then ; no harm our souls need fear, If, in life's toilsome field, he makes our place; Or if he bids us lay aside our work And wait, unquestioning, a little space. The reason here we may not understand, Why he should bid some labor, others rest, But since his love and wisdom cannot fail, We know his ways are right, his plans are best. And, though I dare not judge another's work, This do I know, — In all God's kingdom wide, Where'er their place, however small the task, None of God's children can be laid aside. — Millie Colcord. IN THE HOSPITAL. " David pursued, he and four hundred men : for two hundred men abode behind, which were so faint that they could not go over the brook Besor. . . , And David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away. . . . And David came to the two hundred men, which were so faint that they could not follow David, whom they had ' made, also, to abide at the brook Besor. . . . Then said David: As his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike." — I Sam. 30: io, 18, 21, 24. 38 SONGS OF TRUST. OT disabled from the service; No, nor absent from your post ; You are doing gallant duty, Where your Master needs you most. It was noble to give battle, While the world stood cheering on ; It is nobler to lie patient, Leaving half one's work undone ; Or to stand still, cheerful-hearted, One among the chosen few, Who, " detached for special service," Are to suffer, not to do. For God metes to each his measure ; And the sick man's patient prayer Brings no less than ball or bayonet — The sure victory, unaware. Eyes that smile on, through their anguish, Sighs on sighs choked bravely down ; All the thin hands, folded meekly, Letting go the wished-for crown ; All the strong hearts, learning patience, All the faint hearts, learning trust, PRAISE FOR EVERY THING. 39 Cry out loudly, as a death-cry, " Gracious God, our cause is just ! " Above the narrow bedside, Where the wan, white face grows calm, Bend invisible, bright angels, With the laurel and the palm ; And the King counts up his heroes, Where the desperate charge is led, But writes "My best beloved," Over the sick man's head! PRAISE FOR EVERY THING. " I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me." — Ps. 119:75. I OR what shall I praise thee, my God and my King? For what blessings the tribute of grati- tude bring ? Shall I praise thee for pleasure, for health, and for ease ; For the spring of delight, and the sunshine of peace ? 40 SONGS OF TRUST. Shall I praise thee for flowers that bloomed on my breast ? For joys in perspective, and pleasures possessed ? For the spirits that heightened my days of de- light, And the slumbers that fell on my pillow by night ? For this should I praise thee; but if only for this, I should leave half untold the donation of bliss. I thank thee for sickness, for sorrow, for care ; For the thorns I have gathered, the anguish I share ; For the nights of anxiety, watchings, and tears, A present of pain, a perspective of fears. I praise thee, I bless thee, my King and my God, For the good and the evil thy love hath bestowed. The flowers were sweet, but their fragrance is flown; They yielded no fruits — they are withered and gone; The thorn, it was poignant, but precious to me — 'T was the message of mercy : it led me to thee. THE COAT OF MANY COLORS. 4 1 THE COAT OF MANY COLORS. Gen. 37:3. Y life is like that garment strange, The Patriarch Jacob made, With many a piece and many a change Of brightness and of shade. A parent's work of love and care, By deep affection planned: The fairest robe a child could wear, Made by a father's hand. And strangely Joseph's gentle youth, And life's unfolding maze, Were ordered by that God of truth, Who portioned out his days. Far from his home, in scenes of strife, No storms his faith could move ; Patient, he trod that path in life All traced for him in love. For me, life's many-colored scene Is in wise order laid ; Bright spots of gladness come between Dark days and hours of shade. 4 2 SONGS OF TRUST. And not one bit of brightness there But God, my Father, knows ; And the same hand, in days of care, Hath measured out my woes. And side by side, with perfect skill, He fits each part for me ; Nor asks he where my wayward will Would like each part to be. But none forgot, or wrongly placed, Eternity will show, When there, unraveled and retraced, Are all these years below. O Lord, increase our faith to feel "Our times are in thy hand"; Be thou our guide, through woe or weal, Safe to the Better Land. SPES MEA CHRISTUS. HAT though I pass life's crowded mart Of millions upon millions thronging, A weary, silent, lonely heart, That finds no answer to her longing? SPES MEA CHRISTUS. 43 That heart a sweeter friendship knows, A dearer FYiend than earthly love bestows. What though no dwelling-place be mine, And homeless, homeless, here I wander? What though for earth I rear no shrine, And men despise, and scorn, and wonder? Mine is a home unchanging, fair, In that great house where many mansions are. What though no treasures here I heap, Of useless stores that vainly glitter, Where moth and rust their revels keep, And riches like their owners flitter? My treasures are heaped up with zeal, Where moth is not, nor thieves break through and steal. What though my steps be marked with blood, And slow and faint with heavy crosses ? What though time sweep, a surging flood, And bring me only pain and losses ? 'T is for the best — this well I know, Else God, my Father, had not willed it so. What though his coming, long delayed, Makes dark my path with cloud and blackness? 44 SONGS OF TRUST. What though he haste not to my aid ? He is not slack, as men count slackness ; But patient and long-suffering, And will, in his good time, deliverance bring. What though I see my strength decay, My body to corruption given ? What though the world be swept away, And suns and stars to chaos driven ? Securely fixed my hopes remain, For Christ, my Saviour, doth forever reign. wljm 03| ENOUGH. AM so weak, dear Lord, I cannot stand One moment without thee ; But, oh! the tenderness of thy enfolding, And, oh ! the faithfulness of thine upholding, And, oh ! the strength of thy right hand ! That strength is enough for me. I am so needy, Lord, and yet I know All fulness dwells in thee ; And hour by hour that never-failing treasure Supplies ' and fills in overflowing measure "WHA1 WILT THOU HAVE ME DO?" 45 My last and greatest need. And so Thy grace is enough for me. It is so sweet to trust thy word alone! I do not ask to see The unveiling of thy purpose, or the shining Of future light on mysteries untwining; Thy promise-roll is all my own — Thy word is enough for me. There were strange soul-depths, restless, vast, and broad, Unfathomed as the sea; An infinite craving for some infinite stilling; But now thy love is perfect filling! Lord Jesus Christ, my Lord, my God, Thou, thou art enough for me. — F. R. H. "WHAT WILT THOU HAVE ME DO?" EAR Lord, behold, I humbly wait And seek thy presence still; _ Oh, deign to hear my earnest prayer, And make me know thy will. 46 \GS OF TRUST. What wilt thou have me, Lord, to do ? What offering shall I bring ? What sen-ice here for thee perform, My God, my heavenly King! Thus long I prayed, until at last The wished-for answer came ; And in a dream, a gentle voice Seemed calling me by name. I rose, obedient to the call, ten, lo ! in mortal gu: My Saviour seemed to stand revealed Unto my wondering ey And then methought he spoke to me, In accents low and sweet, While, filled with love and joy, I fell Adoring, at his feet. " My child, behold, thy prayer is heard, T is this that thou must do : Determined, run the heavenly race ; My grace shall bear thee through. * Xo splendid service do I ask, No deeds of might or fame, 11 WHAT WILT THOU HAVE ME DO?" 47 No testimony, sealed with blood, No tortures, stripes, or shame. " I only ask a yielded heart, The martyrdom of sin; The constant struggle to subdue All that is wrong within. "Sin is the deadly, hateful thing That nailed me to the tree; A hatred of its every guise I ask, my child, from thee. "Thy work no other hands may do, Marked out alone for thee ; If thou shalt do it faithfully, Thou dost it unto me." I woke, but never may forget The truth which I had learned, — That many deeds which from the world The meed of praise have earned, Are not the deeds that please the Lord; He looketh at the heart, And grants his smile alone to those Who choose "the better part." 48 SOJVGS OF TRUST. E'en in the common tasks of life He may be glorified ; If all is done with love for him, For him, the " Crucified." "ROCK OF AGES." OCK of Ages, cleft for me," Thoughtlessly the maiden sung ; Fell the words unconsciously From her girlish, gleeful tongue ; Sang as little children sing ; Sang as sing the birds in June ; Fell the words like light leaves down On the current of the tune — "Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee." "Let me hide myself in thee" — Felt her soul no need to hide — Sweet the song as song could be, And she had no thought beside ; All the words unheedingly Fell from lips untouched by care, "ROCK QF AGES? 49 Dreaming not that they might be On some other lips a prayer — " Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee." "Rock of Ages, cleft for me" — 'T was a woman sang them now, Pleadingly and prayerfully ; Every word her heart did know; Rose the song as storm-tossed bird Beats with weary wing the air, Every note with sorrow stirred, Every syllable a prayer — "Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee." "Rock of Ages, cleft for me" — Lips grown aged sung the hymn Trustingly and tenderly, Voice grown weak, and eyes grown dim — " Let me hide myself in thee." Trembling though the voice and low, Rose the sweet strain peacefully, Like a river in its flow ; Sang as only they can sing Who behold the promised rest — 50 SONGS OF TRUST. " Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee/' "Rock of Ages, cleft for me" — Sung above a coffin-lid ; Underneath all restfully : All life's joys and sorrows hid. Nevermore, O storm-tossed soul, Nevermore from wind or tide, Nevermore from billows' roll Wilt thou need thyself to hide. Could the sightless, sunken eyes, Closed beneath the soft gray hair, Could the mute and stiffened lips Move again in pleading prayer, Still, aye still, the words would be — " Let me hide myself in thee." THE INNER CALM. " Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." — Isa. 26:3. ALM me, my God, and keep me calm, While these hot breezes blow, Be like the night-dew's healing balm Upon earth's fevered brow. THE INNER CALM, 5 1 Calm me, my God, and keep me calm, Soft resting on thy breast ; Soothe me with holy hymn and psalm, And bid my spirit rest. Calm me, my God, and keep me calm, Let thine outstretched wing Be like the shade of Elim's palm Beside her desert spring. Yes, keep me calm, though loud and rude The sounds my ear that greet, — Calm in the closet's solitude, Calm in the bustling street. Calm in the hour of buoyant health, Calm in my hour of pain, Calm in my poverty or wealth, Calm in my loss or gain, Calm in the sufferance of wrong Like him who bore my shame, Calm 'mid the threatening, taunting throng, Who hate thy holy name. Calm when the great world's news with power My listening spirit stir; Let not the tidings of the hour E'er find too fond an ear. 5 2 SONGS OF TRUST. Calm as the ray of sun or star Which storms assail in vain, Moving, unruffled, through earth's war, The eternal calm to gain. MY CRY. HAVE toiled at my work all day, Father, Toiled at my work all day; And now, as evening shadows fall, I humbly kneel to pray. Thou gavest me the work, Father, And bad'st me patient be ; So now the story of the day I bring and tell to thee. I toil in weakness oft, Father, In weariness and pain. Oh ! grant that all my earthly loss May prove eternal gain. Let not my toil be vain, Father, Some fruitage may I see, — Something to tell my drooping faith That 't will accepted be. ONLY A HALF-DAY'S WORK. 53 Oft when I catch the gleam, Father, Of fair, wide harvest-fields, And hear the reaper's song of joy, To grief my spirit yields. For I long to join their ranks, Father, And swell their happy song, To bring my sheaves at eventide, With the rejoicing throng. My work is in the vale, Father, Not on the busy ' plain, Yet though I glean but one poor sheaf, Oh ! say \ is not in vain ! And help me work with joy, Father, In high or low estate ; Content, with all thy love appoints, To " labor and to wait." ONLY A HALF-DAY'S WORK. IS only a half-day's work," — The murmur was faint and low : Life's reaper laid down his task In the golden noon-day glow. 54 SONGS OF TRUST. "'Tis only a half-day's work," To leave the ungathered corn, When the shadow, shrunken, falls, That was long in the early morn. "'Tis only a half-day's work"; The sickle must nerveless fall, And the idleness of pain Draw tighter its bitter thrall. "'Tis only a half-day's work"; I must leave my sheaves unbound, And make excuse as best I may For the grain-encumbered ground. "'Tis only a half-day's work," — Ah! questioning friend, what then? You forget that the Master wills That some should be half -day men ; — Forget that the nail-torn hand Aside plucks the kingly crown, To gather these sickles dropped, When the weary ones lay them down ; That he will complete the task You are all too weak to bear; And the sound of a perfect day Shall end with the Master's share. THY WILL BE DONE, 55 THY WILL BE DONE. DID not ask thee, Lord, to give This racking pain, these aching eyes, This feeble flesh in torture's grasp, This absence from the sunny skies, — I prayed for health, for bounding blood, For joy beneath the glancing sun ; And thou hast answered with this woe: Thy will be done ! I did not pray, O Lord, for this: That friends should leave me lone and drear, That poverty should hedge me in, That I should work in care and fear, — I prayed for home, and wealth, and bliss, That what I toiled t for might be won ; Thou hast denied the blessing still, — Thy will be done ! I did not seek, O Lord, for night And sorrow, darkening o'er my way ; That I should look into the grave, And all I love be turned to clay, — I prayed for light, that faces dear Might greet me as the days went on ; 56 SONGS OF TRUST. And they have vanished like a cloud — Thy will be done ! Thy will be done ! Thy will be done ! I trust thee, Father, Saviour, God ! I trust thee though my flesh grow faint ; Though all are buried 'neath the sod, I trust thee still; for in death's vale Thy presence is a beaming sun. All that is lost in thee aye shines, — Thy will be done! HE HAD NOT WHERE TO LAY HIS HEAD. JlRDS have their % quiet nest, Foxes their holes, and man his peace- ful bed; All creatures have their rest ; But Jesus had not where to lay his head. And yet, he came to give The weary and the heavy-laden rest; To bid the sinner live, And soothe our griefs to slumber on his breast. HOPE ONI 57 Let the birds seek their nest, Foxes their holes, and man his peaceful bed;- Come, Saviour, on my breast — Come and repose thine oft-rejected head! Come, give me rest ; and take The only rest on earth thou hadst, within A heart that, for thy sake, Shall purify itself from every sin. HOPE ON! Y heart was like to break With prayers denied ; Dark had grown all the way,- Sweet hope had died. Withered the flowers I clasped Closely at morn; Faded, and wan, and dead, — ■ So fair at dawn ! Life was no longer sweet; Shining afar — So cold and far away — The morning star. 5 8 SOWGS OF TRUST, I dreamed his will I chose, — Waked, — 't was my own ! Wildly I craved the boon; This, this alone ! Then to my weary soul An angel spoke ; Chided my coward fears, New faith awoke. "Dear heart," she whispered low, " God reigneth still ! Chooseth, in love to thee, His blessed will. " Canst thou distrust and doubt The loving Lord, Who evermore hath proved A faithful God? "Beloved, rest thee sure Each sob he hears ; Noteth and counteth all Thy dropping tears. " Rest quiet in his arms ; Wait, and be strong ! What though the answer wait, And tarry long ? RESTING IN GOD. 59 "Bate not thy hope one jot; All will be well! Yet shall thy singing heart His praises tell. " Lift up thy drooping heart — He will not fail ! Weak as thy strength shall be, His can prevail !" Close to my heart I pressed God's angel sent; Low on my knees I fell, Lowly I bent. O thou sweet Christ of God! Hold my hand fast, Till need of hope shall be Forever past. RESTING IN GOD. IjINCE thy Father's arm sustains thee, Peaceful be ; When a chastening hand restrains thee, It is he. 60 SONGS OF TRUST. Know his love in full completeness Fills the measure of thy weakness; If he wound thy spirit sore, Trust him more. Without murmur, uncomplaining, In his hand Lay whatever things though canst not Understand, Though the world thy folly spurneth, From thy faith in pity turneth, Peace thy inmost soul shall fill, — Lying still. Like an infant, if thou thinkest Thou canst stand ; Child-like, proudly pushing back The offered hand, Courage soon is changed to fear, Strength doth feebleness appear; In his love, if thou abide, He will guide. Fearest sometimes that thy Father Hath forgot? When the clouds around thee gather, Doubt him not. RESTING IN GOD. 6 1 Always hath the daylight broken, — Always hath he comfort spoken, — Better hath he been for 'years Than thy fears. Therefore, whatsoe'er betideth, Night or day, Know his love for thee provideth Good alway. Crown of sorrow gladly take, Grateful wear it for his sake; Sweetly bending to his will, Lying still. To his own, thy Saviour giveth Daily strength ; To each troubled soul that liveth, Peace at length. Weakest lambs have largest share Of this tender Shepherd's care. Ask him not, then, "When?" or "How?' Only bow. 62 SOJVGS OF TRUST. ABOVE. [BOVE — the Master calleth me, He offers me a crown; He points me to the "crystal sea," Where his own Find home and rest, — rest ever free, — He offers heaven to even me! He knows me here; he watches here My every pang and care ; He meets each joy, he counts each tear; But never there Shall fall for me the shades of fear: No shadows fall in that bright sphere. So oft do clouds beset on earth ; So oft sweet peace declines ; So oft the spirit starves in death, — But heaven shines With beams undimmed — no death, no dearth, Beyond these sin-clothed scenes of earth. Above — I'm prisoned here in clay! In bonds I sit and sing; " O VER WHELMED." 63 But then, beyond, away, away, On unbound wing, I '11 rise to God's bright land of day, Whereof the Lamb's the light alway. " OVERWHELMED." HORNY the path I tread; Storm-clouds above my head; Heavy the weight I bear; Crushing my load of care. Jesus ! bend down to me, Let me thy dear face see ! Fainting, my weary heart, Aching with bitter smart; Failing, my faith so small, That the dear Lord knows all. Jesus ! bend down to me, Let me thy dear face see ! Shine thou into my soul; Say to the sick, "Be whole!" Hear thou my sobbing plaint ; Strengthen my trust so faint. 64 SONGS OF TRUST. Jesus! bend down to me, Let me thy dear face see! Jesus! sweet Lamb of God! Though by all heaven adored, Well dost though know the strife Of this sad, mortal life. Jesus! bend down to me, Let me thy dear face see! Turn thou my night to day ; Drive all my fears away; Hold me upon thy breast; Hush every doubt to rest. Jesus ! bend down to me, Let me thy dear face see ! "I DO NOT FEEL." H, COULD I but be certain The Saviour died for me, And feel a full assurance That he Las set me free ; Could I accept salvation, And know it was my own, «/ DO not feel:' 65 And yield my heart forever To Christ the Lord alone! I long to love the Saviour, To know him mine indeed; And daily at his footstool For this great gift I plead, — But, oh ! I have no answer : I do not feel forgiven. I cannot say, with many, That I am sure of heaven. I strive, though often failing, His precepts to fulfill; To be what he would have me: Submissive to his will. A dark cloud would be lifted, If I could only see I was his child, abiding In him, and he in me. What if you do not feel it? The Lord is still the same ; Faithful to each believer, Who trusts his holy Name. He is no man, repenting A promise he has made ; 66 SONGS OF TRUST. Forevermore abideth Each word that he hath said. What if you do not feel it ? Which is the surest guide: Your heart, so weak and wayward, Or Christ, the Crucified? All whom his Holy Spirit Homeward doth gently lead, — Who his blessed word received, — These are his sons indeed. And this same Holy Spirit Is working in your heart Those fervent, restless longings He only can impart. And so — how can you doubt it ? — His word must aye be true; You are his child, abiding In him, and he in you. What if you do not feci it? Be careful how you say That Jesus' full salvation Is not your own to-day. Is it not really calling His blessed word untrue, KEPT DAILY FROM SIN 67 To say that what is promised To all, is not for you ? E'en if you do not feel it, His promise is secure; His love and his compassion Forever must endure. So cast away your doubtings: Awake, sad heart ! and sing Praise to your Heavenly Father, Your Shepherd, and your King. KEPT DAILY FROM SIN. HIS day vouchsafe to keep me without sin, Lord of all power and might ! My own strength never can the battle win, When struggling for the right. In the least matter there is right and wrong; Oh, let thy truth shine out, To mark the way, and lead me all day long Through mists of chilling doubt. 68 SOATGS OF TRUST. Disperse the doubts that make me hesitate, And, hesitating, lose The hours that hurry by, and cannot wait While I the day's work choose. Keep thou my mind, be thou its polar-star, In the pure realms of thought. Keep thou my heart, whose ceaseless issues are With life and death full fraught. Suspicion, pride, and jealousy are death — Let me not fall therein; Let not a word, a whisper, or a breath, Commit me to such sin. Kindness, and truth, and love, and trust, are life — Give this full life to me ; Let it spring up and overflow all strife With streams of charity. Pluck up each root of inborn, secret sin, Let not one vain desire, One self-willed wish, like a dead weight within, Forbid me to aspire. Thou art the rightful owner of each thought ; Then must they be subdued, And in captivity to Christ be brought, And by his love imbued. A PRAYER. 69 Then this unceasing prayer may hope to win Acceptance in thy sight; Vouchsafe to keep me this day without sin, Lord of all power and might. A PRAYER. I PON my forehead set thy seal, O Lord! So shall it cleaner, whiter, fairer grow; So all thy gentle angels, passing by, A spirit kindred to their own shall know, And holy eyes alone shall mark its glow. Not on my forehead only — on mine eyes! So can no sight impure be mirrored there; So shall they bear to look on thine, and learn To seek for snowy wings in all the air. So shall they seem to thee divinely fair ! Upon my lips ! The tender, wandering notes, — Fragments of angel-songs that fill the blue, — That pass them now, untouched, as all too gross, Shall cling as to the rose-lip clings the dew; So, sealed of thee, to thee shall they be true. 7° SOuYGS OF TRUST. Upon my palms ! No lowly serving then Can mar their comely seeming in thy sight : Nor flake of dross shall cling — like clings to like ; — But serve to make them more supremely white. So may they clasp the hem of robes of light ! Upon my heart, O Lord, upon my heart ! So shall it, too, be whitened, as the fleece, Until it blusheth not beneath thine eyes ; So this unholy tumult all shall cease — Its wildest pulses learn to lisp in peace ! THE BLESSED TASK. SAID, " Sweet Master, hear me pray ; For love of thee the boon I ask ; Give me to do for thee, each day, Some simple, lowly, blessed task/' And listening long, with hope elate, I only heard him whisper, " Wait/' The days went by, but nothing brought, Beyond the wonted round of care, And I was vexed with anxious thought, "THE BALANCINGS OF LIFE." 7 l And found the waiting hard to bear; But when I said, "In vain I pray/' I heard him answer gently, " Nay." So praying still, and waiting on, And pondering what the waiting meant, This knowledge sweet at last I won — And, oh, the depth of my content ! My blessed task for every day Is humbly, gladly to obey. And though I daily, hourly fail To bring my task to him complete, And must with constant tears bewail My failures at my Master's feet, No other service would I ask Than this, my blessed, blessed task. — Harriet McEwen Kimball. "THE BALANCINGS OF LIFE." HERE 'S never a day so sunny But a little cloud appears ; There *s never a life so happy But has had its time of tears ; fjfelj 72 SONGS OF TRUST. Yet the sun shines out the brighter When the stormy tempest clears. There 's never a garden growing With roses in every plot ; There 's never a heart so hardened But it has one tender spot. We have only to prune the border To find the "forget-me-not." There 's never a cup so pleasant But has bitter with the sweet ; There 's never a path so rugged That bears not the print of feet ; And we have a helper promised For the trials we may meet. There 's never a way so narrow But the entrance is made straight ; There is always a guide to point us To the "little wicket gate"; And the Lord is ever nearest To a heart that is desolate. There *s never a dream that 's happy But the waking makes us sad ; There 's never a dream of sorrow But the waking makes us glad. "WE WILL NEVER GIVE THEE UP." 73 We shall look some day with wonder At the troubles we have had. There 's never a heart so haughty But will some day bow and kneel ; There 's never a heart so wounded That the Saviour cannot heal ; There 's many a lowly forehead That is bearing the hidden seal. There 's never a sun that rises But we know 't will set at night. The tints that gleam in the morning, At evening are just as bright ; And the hour that is the sweetest Is between the dark and the light. "WE WILL NEVER GIVE THEE UP." E will never give thee up, O thou sadly erring one ! Though faster in the downward path thy wayward foot-steps roam ; Though harder than an adamant thy steadfast brow be set In proud rebellion 'gainst thy God, thou 'It come to Jesus yet. 74 SOKGS OF TRUST. We will never give thee up! though each pass- ing day and hour Find thee a still willing slave to Satan's deadly power : Though tighter, closer, round thy life sin's iron chain be bound ; Though darker grow thy deeds and words, thou, lost one, shalt be found. We will never give thee up! though the heavens above like brass Seem stretched, we know that e'en through them our feeble prayers must pass ; Though earth-born clouds throng dark between, we know the sun is there ; That it will pierce them through anon — our God will answer prayer. We will never give thee up! though our eyes grow dim with tears, And our hearts sick with hope deferred, in a waste of weary years, Each ending darker than the last, we will not look at thee, But whisper still unto our God, "Our eyes are unto thee." "WE WILL NEVER GIVE THEE UP." 75 We will never give thee up! though faint, cold, and erring be Our best petitions offered up 'midst gloom and fears for thee ; We know no prayers of ours could stand the blaze of God's white throne, But Jesus lives to intercede; he pleads them as his own ! We will never give thee up! We know the day- must come When thou a lowly prodigal shalt seek thy Fa- ther's home. We know not when that day shall be, but as our God is true, " Whate'er we ask in Jesus' name, that will our Father do." We will never give thee up! God's word shall be our stay ; Though heaven and earth shall be removed, it cannot pass away. Hath he not said, "Ask what thou wilt, the answer I will give " ? His grace can bid thy cold, dark heart turn to the light and live. 76 SONGS OF TRUST, We will never give thee up, O thou sadly err- ing one ! Morn, noon, and eve, and night we '11 pray, until the prize be won. Dear wanderer ! Sadly yearn our hearts, but there *s a Heart above That yearns with deeper tenderness. Thou yet shalt know its love. These lines were written with reference to one whose sad career they too truly describe. Handsome, generous, and amiable, early entering into uncontrolled possession of a large property, he was exposed to great temptations, to which his excitable temperament rendered him peculiarly open. Led away by wild companions, the downward course was speedily entered; and once there, he rushed on with fearful rapidity. He had Christian friends, and grace was given them to wrestle for his conversion, and to believe firmly and assuredly that the answer would come, though each day it seemed further off. " God's ways are not our ways." A few months after this poem was written he was called hence, — thank God, it was to dwell with Jesus. It is in humble gratitude to the God of all grace, and in simple trust in his Word, that these lines are printed, that any who may be weep- ing and despairing over the case of some beloved one may take courage, and trust in the God who cannot lie, who at the eleventh hour saved one whose case seemed utterly hopeless. Dear brother or sister in Jesus, who may be thus in deep waters, look up, pray on, and faint not # As God is true, he will, in his own time and way, answer your prayers. OUR ELDER BROTHER. 77 OUR ELDER BROTHER. ROTHER, in thy day of need, Sister, in thy night of sorrow, Weaker than a bruised reed, Waiting, trembling, for the morrow - Whatsoe'er thy burden be, Jesus whispers, " Give it me ! " Presses close thy cup of pain, Evermore to make thee sip ? Seekest thou relief in vain From the chalice at thy lip ? On the great Physician call ! He will heal thee — tell him all! Spreads the tempter covert snares, Waiting that thy feet may slide ? Hedges he thy path with cares — Walking always at thy side ? Luring but to plunge thee in Deeper in the depths of sin ? Or do words and deeds — thine own- Weigh thee to the very dust, 78 SOATGS OF TRUST. Shutting out the crown and throne — Hiding from thy soul her trust ? Stretch thy hand ! Uplift thy cry ! Loving, pitying, he is nigh ! Doth some cross before thee rise, And thou dar'st not leave it there — Yet to thy beclouded eyes Looks it terrible to bear ? Ask of him to give it thee ; Life and Love that cross shall be ! Bows thy spirit to the dust — Smitten thoughtlessly and sore — Gathering up the broken trust, Looking toward her friends no more? Lean on him, the loving Head — All forsook him once, and fled. He forgave! Oh, then, forgive! Sinning, sorrowing, weary, weak — Dare we unforgiving live, We who daily pardon seek ? Gather we about his cross — He will give us gold for dross. HIS GUIDING HAND. 79 RETURN THEE TO THY REST. |ETURN, return thee to thy only rest, Lone pilgrim of the world ! Far erring from the fold — By the dark night and risen storms distressed; List, weary lamb, the Shepherd's anxious voice, And once again within his arms rejoice. Return, return! Thy fair, white fleece is soiled, And by sharp briars rent — Thy little strength is spent ; Yet he will pity thee, thou torn and spoiled. There thou art cradled on his tender breast ; Now, nevermore, sweet lamb, forsake thy rest. THE GUIDING HAND. JS this the way, my Father ? It is, my child ; Thou must pass through this tangled, dreary wild, If thou wouldst reach the city undcfilcd, — Thy peaceful home above. SO SONGS OF TRUST. But enemies are round ! Yes, child, I know That where thou least expectest, thou 'It find a foe; But victor shalt thou prove o'er all below, — Only seek strength above. My Father, it is dark ! Child, take my hand, Cling close to me, I'll lead thee through the land; Trust my all-seeing care ; so shalt thou stand 'Midst glory bright above. My footsteps seem to slide ! Child, only raise Thine eyes to me, then in these slippery ways I will hold up thy goings ; and thou shalt praise Me for each step above. O Father, I am weary ! Child, lean thine head Upon my breast ; it was my love that spread Thy rugged path ; hope on, till I have said, " Rest, rest, forever rest." OUR HEAVENLY GUIDE. 8 1 OUR HEAVENLY GUIDE. H ! 't is a thought most precious, While journeying here below, The pathway all unknowing In which our steps must go, That there's a Guide unerring, Who knoweth all the way, And who '11 direct our footsteps Alike both night and day. We must not ask his reasons; We must not doubt his love; But take whate'er he sendeth, As bidden from above. And then life's daily crosses, And blessings, too, will seem As ways his wisdom taketh From danger to redeem. So we will fear no evil, But take that guiding hand, Follow that gentle leading, Obey that kind command; 82 SONGS OF TRUST. Him in our ways acknowledge, Walk in his holy light, Till earth be left for heaven, And faith exchanged for sight. NIL DESPERANDUM! I EVER despair while there ' s one gleam of sunlight To shine o'er thy life-path and bright, en thy way ; But list to the spirit-voice whispering within thee ; If darkness is gathering, — oh! work while 'tis day ! Shrink not though stern duties awhile may op- press thee, Though dark clouds and mists obscure the bright sun ; But press on through the gloom, with a heart that grows stronger, Till the bright goal is reached, and the victory won. NIL DESPERANDUM. 83 Though, in toiling, thy strength and thy spirit should fail thee, And wild thoughts arise, which no effort can quell, Look upward, in faith, to the Father, who '11 teach thee To fight the stern life-battle bravely and well. Others have passed o'er life's rough track before thee; Other lips pressed the brim of sorrow's dark cup; Then why shouldst thou faint, when the future holds treasures Which will one day be thine, if thou dost not give up ? No, never despair, though thy trusted friends leave thee, And darkness like midnight thy hope-star en- shrouds ; But list to the voice, which in sweet accents tells thee There 's a silvery lining to life's darkest clouds Then look on the side which is tinged with the silver; And pass, with brave heart, unrepiningly on, 84 SONGS OF TRUST. In the footsteps of those who conquered before thee, — # Who fought bravely and well till the victory was won. FEAR NOT TO DIE. H, fear not thou to die ! But rather fear to live; for life Has thousand snares thy feet to try : By peril, pain, and strife. Brief is the work of death ; But life — the spirit shrinks to see How full, ere heaven recall the breath, The cup of woe may be. Oh, fear not thou to die! No more to suffer, or to sin ; No snares without thy feet to try ; No traitor heart within. But fear, oh, rather fear The gay, the light, the changeful scene ; The flattering smiles that greet thee here, From heaven thy heart to win. LEAVE ALL TO GOD. 85 Oh, fear not thou to die! To die, and be that blessed one Who, in the bright and beauteous sky, Shall feel life's conflict done; — Shall feel that nevermore The tear of grief and shame shall come, For thousand wanderings from the power, That loved and called thee home. LEAVE ALL TO GOD. EAVE all to God! Forsaken one, and still thy tears ; For the Highest knows thy pain, - Sees thy suffering and thy fears ; Thou shalt not wait his help in vain ; Leave all to God ! Be still, and trust ! For his strokes are strokes of love Thou must for thy profit bear ; He thy filial fear would move ; Trust thy Father's loving cara: Be still, and trust ! 86 SONGS OF TRUST. Know God is near ! Though thou think him far away, Though his mercy long hath slept, He will come and not delay When his child enough hath wept, For God is near ! Oh, teach him not When and how to hear thy prayers ; Never doth our God forget ; He the cross who longest bears Finds his sorrow's bounds are set ; Then teach him not. If thou love him, Walking truly in his ways, Then no trouble, cross, or death Shakes thy heart, or quells thy praise ; All things serve thee here beneath, If thou love God. COURAGE. OURAGE, poor way-worn soul, Shrinking from scourge and fire ; Glory of chosen saints Comes out of anguish dire. HEAVIER THE CROSS. 87 Courage ! Of all thy pain, Labor, and bitter loss ! A greater yet was borne On Calvary's sacred cross. Courage, and struggle on ! Lift up thine aching eyes ; On farthest mountain-tops The dawn's first glory lies. Courage! Nay, soul, rejoice, That unto thee is given The rugged, upward path, That climbs to heights of heaven. HEAVIER THE CROSS. EAVIER the cross, the nearer heaven ; No cross without, no God within, — Death, judgment, from the heart are driven, Amid the world's false glare and din : Oh ! happy he, with all his loss, Whom God hath set beneath the cross. Heavier the cross, the better Christian ; This is the touchstone God applies. 88 sojVGS of trust. How many a garden would be wasting, Unwet by showers from weeping eyes ! The gold by fire is purified ; The Christian is by trouble tried. Heavier the cross, the stronger faith ; The loaded palm strikes deeper root ; The vine-juice sweetly issueth, When men have pressed the clustered fruit ; And courage grows where dangers come, Like pearls beneath the salt-sea foam. Heavier the cross, the heartier prayer ; The bruised reeds most fragrant are. If sky and wind were always fair, The sailor would not watch the star ; And David's Psalms had ne'er been sung, If grief his heart had never wrung. Heavier the cross, the more aspiring'; From vales we climb the mountain crest ; The pilgrim of the desert, tiring, Longs for the Canaan of his rest. The dove has here no rest in sight, And to the ark she win^s her flight. A & x Heavier the cross, the easier dying, Death is a friendlier face to see ; THE CALL. 89 To life's decay one bids defying, From life's distress one then is free. The cross sublimely lifts our faith To him who triumphed over death. Thou Crucified ! the cross I carry The longer, may it dearer be ; And lest I faint while here I tarry, Implant thou such a heart in me That faith, hope, love, may flourish there, Till for the cross my crown I wear. THE CALL. JHILD of the undimmed, trustful eye, That into the far away future peers Thro' rifts in the blue of your smiling sky, (Softening the gleam of your gladsome eye), What sight does your baby-vision see ? Ah, tenderly sweet a voice she hears — Come, follow mc. Dropped is the youth's gay hunting-horn — The rudder hangs loose of the boat he steers — Or ever the moon has flushed the morn, 90 SOA'GS OF TRUST. Or the echoes ceased of his matin-horn. Moved by a mystical sound is he, Which clearer than bugle or bird he hears — Co7ne, follow me. The nightingale's song has touched her heart, Her tremulous breast the red rose cheers — But closer than whisper of lover's art, Closer than beat of the maiden's heart Is the wooing that woos her silently ; And these are the unbreathed words she hears — Come, follow me. Bay-wreaths are twining his manhood's brow, Music of praise is in his ear, Dizzy with happiness is he now ! Wherefore that lifting of thoughtful brow? Can there a goal more lofty be ? Is there a melody sweeter to hear? Yea, follow me. Slow steps tremble beside the grave — Bent is the form with its weight of years — Hark! to the moan, "Will no one save Me from the chill of the noisome grave ?" Still falls the voice that would set him free, While faint with a dying pulse he hears — Ah, follow me. THE REVELATION OF SORROW. 91 Tender as ever, it falls to-day, Seeming afar — yet, oh, so near! Sweet as though never it had gone astray The lamb that is called to the fold to-day — Sweet, and tender, and low the plea, (Alas ! for the soul too dead to hear), Follow thoit me. J l-ffi REVELATION OF SORROW. WOULD it were yesterday/' I said, For there stood such a sorrow in my way, I could but turn away my drooping head, And clasp my hands, and weeping sadly, pray : 14 Let me turn back, the storm is dark and wild ; Dear Father, I am but a little child! — "Let me turn back." But at my childhood's gates An angel, calm and solemn, barred the way. "Forward," he said, "thy life's work for thee waits; Why wouldst thou linger 'mid the flowers to play ? By strife and toil life's victories are won, And to endure is still to overcome." 9 2 SOA r GS OF TRUST. Scarcely the words I seemed to understand, But like a chidden child went weeping on, And then from out the darkness came a hand, And when it touched me I was calm and strong. Such virtue in its clasp, that I took grace, And looked my sorrow bravely in the face. And, as I looked, the mournful shape grew fair, And the dark road was brighter towards the end, And Faith and Hope came oft my watch to share, And Sorrow grew to be so rich a friend — So prodigal of gifts, — that I could say, "'Twas good for me that Sorrow came that day." I thank thee, Lord, for the perpetual light That gilds the memory of my childhood's days ; And for that dark initiation night That made me free of all life's bitter ways. The Joy, the Sorrow, were alike from thee, And if thou send'st them, both alike to me. WAITING ON THE LORD. AM waiting, humbly waiting At the footstool of my Lord ; Nor is faith in him abating, Though my plea be long ignored ; WAITING ON THE LORD. 93 For his word of truth is plighted, What is wrong shall all be righted, Hope in him shall not be blighted — I am waiting on his word. I am trusting, firmly trusting, Until faith gives place to sight ; Satan by his lures disgusting Renders life a constant fight. But my Lord will not evade me, Sure hath his assurance made me, He in every strait will aid me, — I am trusting in his might. I am toiling, weary toiling, In the sunshine and the rain ; And though sin, my efforts spoiling, Often pierces me with pain, Jesus bids me toil untiring, He my soul with zeal is firing, He my courage is inspiring — I am toiling not in vain. I am bringing, freely bringing All my wants to him in prayer, Till I, songs at midnight singing, Find him chasing all despair ; 94 SOXGS OF TRUST. For he sees my burdened longing, Sees temptations round me thronging, Sees me suffer bitter wronging — I am bringing him my care. I am drifting, gently drifting On the current of his will ; He my course for me is shifting, He my bark is steering still : His design shall be perfected, By his providence directed, By his mighty arm protected, I am drifting safe from ill. I am leaning, calmly leaning On his surety in alarm : All his purposes have meaning, Every promise has a charm ; All were meant in love to cheer me, He has promised still to hear me, Promised always to be near me — I am leaning on his arm. A t> I am nearing, slowly ncaring Now the time of my release ; I with him no harm am fearing, For his guard shall never cease : THE SECRET OF A HAPPY DAY. 95 He through all my way attends me, He from every foe defends me, He in danger succor sends me — I am nearing home in peace. THE SECRET OF A HAPPY DAY. UST to let thy Father do What he will; Just to know that he is true, And be still. Just to follow hour by hour As he leadeth ; Just to draw the moment's power As it needeth ; Just to trust him, that is all ! Then the day will surely be Peaceful, whatsoe'er befall, Bright and blessed, calm and free. Just to let him speak to thee Through his word ; Watching that his voice may be Clearly heard. 9^ SOA r GS OF TRUST. Just to tell him everything As it rises, And at once to him to bring All surprises. Just to listen and to stay- Where you cannot miss his voice. This is all ! and thus to-day, Communing, you shall rejoice. Just to ask him what to do All the day, And to make you quick and true To obey ; Just to know the needed grace He bestoweth, Every bar of time and place Overfloweth. Just to take thy orders straight From the Master's own command. Blessed ! when thus we wait Always at our Sovereign's hand. Just to recollect his love, Always true ; Always shining from above, Always new. THE SECRET OF A HAPPY DAY. 97 Just to recognize its light, All-enfolding ; Just to claim its present might, All-upholding. Just to know it as thine own, That no power can take away, — Is not this enough alone For the gladness of the day ? Just to trust, and yet to ask Guidance still; Take the training, or the task, As he will. Just to take the loss or gain As he sends it; Just to take the joy or pain As he lends it. He who formed thee for his pride Will not miss the gracious aim: So to-day, and all thy days, Shall be moulded for the same. Just to leave in his dear hand l Little things; All we cannot understand, All that stings. 9^ SOXGS OF TRUST. Just to let him take the care, Sorely fretting ; Finding all we let him bear Changed to blessing. This is all ! yet the way Marked by him who loves thee best, — Secret of a happy day, Secret of his promised rest. — Franxes Ridley Havergal. "COME!" |REMBLIXG, against the nursery Iwal, An infant stood one day; The mother, kneeling, stretched her hands, And "Come!" I heard her say. So Jesus, walking on the sea, Across the billowy foam, To Peter's "Bid me," simply spoke The ready-answering " Come ! " And thus I pray, "Oh, bid me draw Nearer, dear Lord, to thee"; And to each eager, longing cry He whispers "Come!" to me. « come: 9 99 But oft contrary winds arise, Of trouble, doubt, or sin, And toss my soul with chilling fear, Till Jesus draws me in; Or some bewitching tanglements My timid footsteps stay; Some idol, lifted high between, Stands blindly in my way. And he must reach, and with the hand Of tender, faithful love, Tear from my grasp the hindering thing,— The stumbling-block remove. I groan, and cry, and fall aghast, Stripped, empty, and alone; But when across the open path, Each obstacle o'erthrown, I venture out, and cast myself Upon his loving heart, I find how blessed 'tis to come, However hard to start. — Mrs. Helen E. Brown. IOO SOtfGS OF TRUST. IN CHRIST, LIKE CHRIST, WITH CHRIST. ORD, I believe that thou hast died, My soul from death to free; And faith in thee, the Crucified, Bids all my terrors flee. I tremble not, for thou dost hide My guilty soul in thee. And daily, Lord, I strive to make My faith and life agree, The power of reigning sin to break; But daily, still, I see Fresh depths of sin : But I shall wake And find myself like thee. The cross I bear, the cup I drink, Bitter and sharp must be! Help me, O thou who didst not shrink From cross or cup for me, Lest I too often sigh and think, — "Ah! when in heaven with thee!" Let me not murmur at thy will, But wait thy just decree; MY SACRIFICE. 101 Knowing if I my task fulfill, And in thee, like thee be: Let but this beating heart be still, And I am thus with thee. MY SACRIFICE. I AID on thy altar, O my Lord divine, Accept this gift to-day for Jesus' sake. I have no jewels to adorn thy shrine, Nor any world-famed sacrifice to make; But here I bring, within my trembling hand, This will of mine — a thing that seemeth small; And thou alone, O Lord, canst understand How, when I yield thee this, I yield mine all. Hidden therein, thy searching gaze can see Struggles of passion, visions of delight; All that I have, or am, or fain would be — Deep loves, fond hopes, and longings infinite; — It hath been wet with tears, and dimmed with sighs, Clenched in my grasp till beauty it hath none. Now, from thy footstool, where it vanquished lies, The prayer ascendeth — "May thy will be done ! " 102 SONGS OF TRUST. Take it, O Father, ere my courage fail; And merge it so in thine own will, that e'en If in some desperate hour my cries prevail, And thou give back my gift, it may have been So changed, so purified, so fair have grown, So one with thee, so filled with peace divine, I may not know or feel it as mine own ; But gaining back my will, may find it thine. DRAW ME NEARER. RAW me nearer, O my Saviour ! May my heart be wholly thine, E'en to thee by faith united, As the branch unto the vine. Draw me to that inner circle, Where thy dearest friends are found, Perfect trust in thee confiding, Let thy grace in me abound. Draw me nearer, O my Saviour ! Lest the world's seductive charms Should in some unguarded moment Lure me from thy sheltering arms. DRAW ME NEARER. IO3 Break the chains that long have bound me, And my captive soul set free; In the hour of fierce temptation Draw me nearer, nearer thee. Draw me nearer, O my Saviour ! Thorny though the path may be, If thy guiding hand doth lead me, And thy footsteps I can see, Evermore I '11 gladly follow In the path thy feet have trod — Rough or smooth, it does not matter, If it leads me home to God. Draw me nearer, O my Saviour ! Nearer to thy bleeding side ; May my soul, bathed in that fountain, From earth's dross be purified. Cleanse my soul from earth-born passions, Cast all idols from thy throne, Ever-blessed Lord and Master, Reign thou in my heart alone. Draw me nearer, O my Saviour! I would place my hand in thine, Whispering in meek submission, "Evermore thy will, not mine/' 104 SONGS OF TRUST. I can trust thee, O my Saviour! Knowing well thy will is best. Sheltered by the "Rock of Ages/' Shall my soul securely rest. LORD, SHUT ME IN. "And the Lord shut him in." — Gen. 7:16. ITH thy strong arm, Lord, shut me in Thy ark of grace ; Withdraw me from the power of sin And folly's wild, incessant din, No more let earth my spirit win From thy embrace. Safe shut me in with thee and thine, Apart from wrong : Conform my heart to thy design — My soul a branch, and thou the vine, And of the fellowship divine Shall be my song. Give me, O Lord, to share thy love And so find rest ; Enarked in thee my life shall prove MY GOD WITH ME. 105 The joy akin to that above, Where yet, I trust, I may remove Among the blest. At last, Lord, bid the pearly gates Close shut me in ; To pass those gates my spirit waits And with delight anticipates The glory of those pure estates Where comes no sin. MY GOD WITH ME. " When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee ; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee : when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." — Isaiah 43 : 2. Y God with me in every place ! Firmly does the promise stand, On land or sea, with present grace, Still to aid us near at hand. If you ask, " Who is with thee ? " God is here — my God with me ! Nor depth, nor prison, nor the grave, Can exclude him from his own ; 106 SONGS OF TRUST. His cheering presence still I have, If in crowds or all alone. In whatsoever state I be, Everywhere is God with me ! My God for me ! I dare to say — God the portion of my soul ! Nor need I tremble in dismay, When around me troubles roll. If you ask, "What comforts thee?" It is this, God is for me ! Ah ! faith has seen him cradled lie, Here on earth a weeping child ; Has seen him for my vileness die — He, the sinless, undefiled ! And this I know it true to be : God, my Saviour, is for me ! In life, in death, with God so near, Every battle I shall win, — Shall boldly press through dangers here, Triumph over every sin. "What!" you say, "a victor be?" No, not I, but God in me ! — C. F. Zeller. THE REMEMBRANCE OF MERCY. 107 HiE REMEMBRANCE OF MERCY. JHY art thou sorrowful, servant of God? And what is this dullness that hangs on thee now ? Sing the praises of Jesus, and sing them aloud, And the song shall dispel the dark cloud from thy brow. For is there a thought in the wide world so sweet, As that God hath so cared for us, bad as we are ; That he thinks of us, plans for us, stoops to entreat, And follows us, wander we ever so far? Then how can the heart e'er be drooping and sad, Which God hath once touched with the light of his grace ? Can the child have a doubt, who but lately had laid Himself to repose in his father's embrace ? And is it not wonderful, servant of God, That he should have honored us so with his love ? 108 SONGS OF TRUST. That the sorrows of life should but shorten the road Which leads to himself and the mansions above? Oh, then, wh^en the spirit of darkness comes down With clouds and uncertainties into thy heart, One look to thy Saviour, one thought of thy crown, And the tempest is over, the shadows depart. That God hath once whispered a word in thine ear, Or sent thee from heaven one sorrow for sin, Is enough for a life, both to banish all fear, And to turn into peace all the troubles within. The school-men can teach thee far less about heaven ; Of the height of God's power, or the depth of his love, Than the fire in thy heart when thy sin was forgiven, Or the light that one mercy brings down from above. Then why dost thou weep so? For see how time flies, — The time that for loving and praising was given! OUT OF THE DEPTHS. IO9 Away with thee, child, then, and hide thy red eyes In the lap, the kind lap, of thy Father in heaven ! — Faber. OUT OF THE DEPTHS. jjHOU knowest, Lord, the thousand pit- falls that beset This thorny path of mine; Thou knowest all the agonizing — all the strife; Thou knowest how the golden fruitage of my life Has turned to bitter wine I Thou not est all the heavy days and wakeful nights, My lightest care and need ; Thou countest every tear that flows adown my cheek. My God, thou knowest I am helpless, frail, and weak As any bruised seed. HO SOJVGS OF TRUST. Small need to name my grief: thou knowest all my heart — A sorely-troubled thing ! Oh ! thou who stilled the stormy waves of Galilee, Speak now thy wondrous "Peace, be still !" to me ; I heard thee whispering. E'en now, a calm unspeakable fills all my soul; I own thy power divine. Dear Lord, I freely take the bitter, bitter cup — Yea, to the dregs — the very dregs — I drain it up; My will is lost in thine! — Rose Standish.* FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH. E faithful to the end ! Let not danger or distress Make thy heart love Jesus less; Unto death trust thou that Friend! Ah ! the suffering of this earth All the glory is not worth, Which thy Lord will give to thee When up yonder thou shalt be. FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH. Ill Be faithful in thy grief ! Let not storms from Christ divide, Let not weeping Jesus hide; Murmur not to get relief ; For impatience makes thy care Heavier much for thee to bear. Happy he whose childlike will Lets God lead him up the hill. Be faithful in thy faith! Let not any robber bold Take it from thy heart's stronghold; Keep thy covenant till death. Then in the o'erflowing wave God is with thee, strong to save. Ah ! thou goest there forlorn, When thou art to him forsworn ! Be faithful in thy love! See the love God has for thee! Love thy neighbor — e'en when he Lays more cares, thy care above. Think how Jesus prayed for those By whose hands his cross arose! E'en as God doth thee forgive, So let mercy in thee live. 112 SOJVGS OF TRUST. And in thy hope stand true ! Trust thou firmly in God's word ; Is thy cry in trouble heard, Comes he not to help thee through ? Hope thou in him firmly yet, -For the Lord doth not forget; Even now is help proclaimed: Hope can never make ashamed. Then forward ! steadfast be, In faith, love, hope, forever ! Lord, I hear, and I will never Leave my God, who leaves not me. He is my soul's rejoicing still ; Griefs no more my joy can kill. Reach forth thy hand, O God, my Friend! Keep me faithful to the end. THE CROSS. EARY and sad I stand alone, All unbefriended and unknown, When, lo! I hear a gentle tone, "Behold the cross/' THE CROSS. 113 I look ; the sight adds to my fear ; My sins have nailed my Saviour here, And pierced him with the cruel spear, Upon the cross. I look again ; that flowing blood Seals me a pardon from my God, And takes away my heavy load, Here at the cross. This crimson stream by love supplied, Tells me the law is satisfied, And I may live, since Jesus died Upon the cross. Oh, matchless, unexampled love! My heart, with grateful rapture move, And join the ransomed ones above To sing the cross. My lonely heart has found a Friend Who freely loves and without end, And will from every ill defend Those near the cross. In faith to him I lift my eye, And when I fear the dangers nigh, 114 SONGS OF TRUST. To this dear refuge will I fly, My Saviour's cross. Here would I evermore abide, My precious Saviour, near thy side ; Would feel, by faith, thy blood applied Beneath the cross. Dear fellow-sinner, come and see ; He died for you as well as me\ The love that makes salvation 'free, Flows from the cross. Be this my glory here below, And when to brighter worlds I go, My joy shall ever be to know — Saved by the cross. — F. E. H. DOUBT AND FAITH. OUBT is the nerveless arm that hangs and quakes ; Faith is the hand that reaches forth and takes. DOUBT AND FAITH. IIS Doubt is the mist that earth and heaven can shroud ; Faith is the undimmed sun above the cloud. Doubt is the raw recruit, who shrinks with fright; Faith is the long-tried warrior, strong to fight. Doubt asks, "How can I know my prayers are heard ? " And Faith replies, "I trust his gracious word." Doubt says, "The promise is too good for me"; Faith answers, "Gifts of kings should kingly be." Doubt says, "He lays mine honor in the dust"; And Faith, "Though he should slay, yet will I trust." Doubt moans, "I strive with tears, but sins abound"; Faith says, "In Christ my righteousness is found." Doubt fixes on the earth his downcast eye; Faith lifts her clear and steadfast gaze on high. Doubt haunts the darkened border of despair; Faith soars to regions lofty, pure, and fair. Doubt is of troubled and unquiet mien ; But Faith is steadfast, tranquil, and serene. II<3 SONGS OF TRUST. Doubt is of the earth, and with the earth must die ; But Faith shall live, where now she points, on high. O Lord, this blinding, clogging, deadening Doubt, As thou of old the demons didst, cast out ! And let me pray along life's darkened path, As thy disciples, " Lord, increase my faith/' GOD KNOWS. " Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him." — Ps. 103 : 13. |ACH heavy cross the back is forced to bear ; Each cruel wound that rankles in the heart ; Each doubt, each fear, each weary load of care, Grief's lingering pain, or sudden, keenest smart, — God knows them each; and his all-seeing eye Is quick to note our sorrows when we cry. Think you the love which led the Son of God His brightness in humanity to veil, TARRY YE HERE AND WATCH. 1 17 And bear, acquaint with grief, the load Of man's estate ; think you that love can fail To pity, comfort, succor, and uplift, And to each faltering prayer send answer swift? Ah ! well for us, our wondrous, great High Priest Was tempted, tried, assailed on every hand, That for our sinfulness, from great to least, Our Advocate might with the Father stand. Oh ! let this thought thy weariness console : He knows thy struggles, tempted, doubting soul. However rough and rugged is the road, How low soe'er the heart may heave its sigh, Infinite love itself would bear the load: God knows and pities ! Lay thy burdens by. No longer tossing like the dove, Oh, trust and feel thy Father's boundless love. TARRY YE HERE AND WATCH. AY set upon Mount Olivet's brow, And night and darkness closed around No mortal sees the Saviour bow In anguish that bedews the ground Il8 SOA r GS OF TRUST. With drops of blood wrung from his brow, The sweat of his great agony. Sleep captive holds the chosen three, To whom he said, " Watch here with me." While on the ground he sorrowing lies, With God the Father pleads the Son : " Let this cup pass from me," he cries, " Yet not my will, but thine, be done." That bloody sweat may not suffice, Lost man to save, the Son must die, And sadly asks the slumbering three, " Could ye not watch one hour with me ? " One little hour, when death was nigh, And mortal foes were gathering near, One hour with him about to die, That death for them might have no fear? " If this cup may not pass from me, Except I drink of it," he cries, "Father, thy will be done"; the three Forget his bidding, "Watch with me." Three times he prays, apart, alone, Then comes with strength to do the will Of him who sits upon the throne ; And finds the Apostles sleeping still. «/ WILL FEAR NO EVIL. 19 1 1 9 "Sleep on and rest," he said. 'T was done! His blood was bought, his hour had come. "Arise," he bids the awakened three, "And let us go — they wait for me." I WILL FEAR NO EVIL: FOR THOU ART WITH ME." Ps. 23:4. ATHER, to thee I bring These haunting fears ; Deliver me, my Lord, As in past years. I cannot fight these foes, They are too strong; But one still word of thine Will right the wrong. The "unclean spirit" flees Where faith abides, And no ill thing may hurt Whom Jesus guides. This root of unbelief, Dear Lord, destroy ! And give instead thy peace, God of my joy ! 120 SOJVGS OF TRUST. ONLY. IJNLY a seed ! But it chanced to fall In a little cleft of a city wall ; And taking root, grew bravely up Till a tiny blossom crowned its top. Only a flower! But it chanced that day That a burdened heart passed by the way ; And the message that through the flower was sent Brought the weary soul a sweet content. For it spake of the lilies so gaily clad, And the vexed heart grew strangely glad At the thought of a tender care o'er all, That noted even a sparrow's fall. Only a thought ! But the work it wrought Can never by tongue or pen be taught ; For it ran through a life like a thread of gold, And the life bore fruit a hundred fold. Only a word ! But *t was spoken in love, With a whispered prayer to the Lord above : And the angels in heaven rejoiced once more, For a new-born soul entered in by "The Door/ Wjr THE RUGGED WAY. 121 THE RUGGED WAY. Written for one who is being called home through great suffering AM bringing my child to the heavenly land ; I am leading her day by day, And am asking her now, while I hold her hand, To come home by a rugged way. By a way that she never herself would choose, For its beauties she does not see ; And she knows not yet what her soul would lose If she trod not this path with me. I will walk by her side when the road is wild ; I will ever my succor lend ; She shall lean on my strength, I will shield my child, As the shadows of night descend. I will point to the stars in the midnight sky, And will tell of the lights of home ; I will comfort her heart as the days go by With the thought of the joys to come. I will carry her over the "silver stream," And will sing to her songs of peace : 122 SONGS OF TRUST. She shall calmly rest in a fair, fair dream, When the pathway of life shall cease. I will waken her gently in realms of bliss, In the land of eternal day ; And my child shall be glowing with thankfulness That I brought her the rugged way. COME HOME. Y suffering child ! thy days of grief are o'er ; Come home to me, and rest forever- more." " Jesus, thou Lord of all! I dare not go, No work well-done for thee I have to show." " Great deeds I ask not ; but some act of love, One word for me thy righteousness may prove." 1 Alas ! I do remember no such word, Nor one such act ; pardon me, O Lord ! " COME HOME. 123 "Yet, come, my child, 'tis I who bid thee come; I can now ask no more; come home, come home!" " I cannot, dare not ! Call me not thy child, Behold my hands, my heart with sin denied! Behold my wasted life, my barren years ; Behold my murmurs, my rebellious tears ; See how myself I love, while cold towards thee, My conscience seared, my hardened heart, oh, see!" " I see ! And sad thou naught hast done for me ; I have done all, poor, sorrowing soul for thee ; The word that thou for me hast never spoken, That word I spake for thee with faith unbroken; The loving deed thou didst not, I have done, And interceded for thee near the throne. Thy sins, thy wasted life, thy heart defiled, Better I know than thou dost know them, child; And freely all that sin I have forgiven ; Come home, my child, come home to me and heaven ! " " My blessed Lord ! my Saviour, and my All, Weeping no longer, I obey thy call ! 124 SOATGS OF TRUST. I come to praise thee with my heart and voice, I come with blood-bought sinners to- rejoice; I bless my dying day ; I bless the grace That gives me with thy ransomed ones a place. 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