Poems on Subjects Chiefly Devotional, Vol. 1 ‎#112

112. Desiring a Taste of Real Joy

I. Why should my spirit cleave to earth,
This nest of worms, this vile abode?
Why thus forget her nobler birth,
Nor wish to trace the heav'nly road?

II. How barren of sincere delight,
Are all the fairest scenes below!
Through beauteous colours charms the sight,
They only varnish real woe.

III. Were I to mount the flying wind,
And search the wide creation round,
There's nothing here to suit the mind;
On earth no solid joy is found.

IV. Oh! could my weary spirit rise,
And panting with intense desire,
Reach the bright mansions in the skies,
And mix among the blissful choir:

V. How should I look, with pitying eye,
On this low world of gloomy care,
And wonder, how my soul could lie
Wrapp'd up in the shades and darkness there!

VI. Say, happy natives of the sky,
What is it makes your heav'n above?
You dwell beneath your father's eye,
And feast forever on his love.

VII. My God, thy presence can impart
A glimpse of heav'n to earth and night;
O smile, and bless my mournful heart,
Sweet foretaste of sincere delight.

VIII. Then shall my soul contented stay
'Till my Redeemer calls me home:
Yet let me oft with transport say,
"Come, O my Lord, my Saviour, come."

Text Information

• First Line: Why should my spirit cleave to earth
• Title: Desiring a Taste of Real Joy
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1760

Tune Information

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