The Defence of Zion. As birds their infant brood protect, And spread their wings to shelter them, Thus saith the Lord to his elect, "So will I guard Jerusalem." And what is then Jerusalem, This darling object of his care? Where is its worth in God's esteem? Who built it? who inhabits there? Jehovah founded it in blood, The blood of his incarnate Son; There, though besieged on every side, The utmost force of earth and hell. Let earth repent, and hell despair, Her name is called "THE LORD IS THERE;" Zion. GLORIOUS things of thee are spoken, He whose word cannot be broken, C On the Rock of ages founded, See! the streams of living waters, Round each habitation hovering, Showing that the Lord is near. Safe they feed upon the manna Which he gives them when they pray. Blest inhabitants of Zion, Washed in the Redeemer's blood! Jesus, whom their souls rely on, Makes them kings and priests to God. 'Tis his love his people raises Over self to reign as kings, And as priests, his solemn praises Each for a thank-offering brings. Saviour, if of Zion's city I through grace a member am, None but Zion's children know. The Recompense of the Reward. My soul, with all thy wakened powers, Nor let these glittering toys of earth The splendid crown which Moses chose. The joys and treasures of a day Let fools my wiser choice deride, My steadfast soul shall move. With ardent eye, that bright reward The End of our Faith . Look up to yonder world, See myriads round the throne; Each bears a golden harp, And wears a golden crown: Believing in his name, They in his footsteps trod; And sing his love. And shall we not aspire Like them our course to run?' The crown if we would wear, They showed the way; And then obey. Early will I Seek Thee. O GOD! thou art my God alone, A thirsty land, whose springs are dry O that it were as it hath been, Yet through this rough and thorny maze Thee in the watches of the night Better than life itself thy love, Dearer than all beside to me, my For whom have I in heaven above, head. Or what on earth, compared with thee? Praise with my heart, my mind, my voice, My soul shall still in God rejoice, |