Classic Poem

TAU

Let my complaint, which I prefer,
That I from human weakness err,
 Thro' Christ, O Lord, be heard;
According to thy word expand
My knowledge, let the chaff be fann'd,
 And all the gloom be clear'd.

Grant to mine orisons access,
As I thy gracious throne address,
 And with acceptance greet;
True to thy word my soul reprieve
From bondage, under which I grieve,
 And all my vows compleat.

My lips, which cannot praise too much,
Shall speak as by thine hallow'd touch
 They're sanctified and tun'd,
When thou thy law hast fully taught,
And from my heart each fruitless thought,
 And vile affection prun'd.

Yea, I will take none other theme
For musick than thy word supreme,
 Upon my heart or tongue;
For thy commands in truth compriz'd,
And with such blessings harmoniz'd,
 Are worthiest to be sung.

Let thine hand save me from mischance,
That I may with my feet advance
 Where now I send my voice;
For by thy statutes I procure,
My calling and election sure,
 Because they are my choice.

I long to quit the world beneath,
And mine ejaculations breathe
 Toward my Saviour's peace;
For from thy law my gladness springs,
O Lord, and from all earthly things
 I sue for my release.

O give my soul to life and joy,
Where neither moth nor worms destroy
 My toils in triumph crown;
Amongst thy glorious saints enlist,
And still thy judgments shall assist
 While I thy name renown.

I went astray, of grace bereft,
Like some poor sheep, when he has left
 The shepherd at a loss;
Let mercy seek, if love regret,
A vagrant who could not forget
 The GOSPEL of thy CROSS.