Charity to the Poor; or Religion in Words and Deeds

Representative Text

11 Why do the wealthy wicked boast,
And grow profanely bold?
The meanest portion of the just,
Excels the sinner’s gold.

12 The wicked borrows of his friends,
But ne’er designs to pay;
The saint is merciful and lends,
Nor turns the poor away.

13 His alms with lib'ral heart he gives
Amongst the sons of need;
His mem'ry to long ages lives
And blessèd is his seed.

14 His lips abhor to talk profane,
To slander or defraud;
His ready tongue declares to men
What he has learn'd of God.

15 The law and gospel of the Lord
Deep in his heart abide;
Led by the spirit and the word,
His feet shall never slide.

16 When sinners fall, the righteous stand,
Preserv'd from every snare;
They shall possess the promis'd land
And dwell for ever there.

Source: Church Hymn Book: consisting of newly composed hymns with the addition of hymns and psalms, from other authors, carefully adapted for the use of public worship, and many other occasions (1st ed.) #P.XXXVII.II

Author: Isaac Watts

Isaac Watts was the son of a schoolmaster, and was born in Southampton, July 17, 1674. He is said to have shown remarkable precocity in childhood, beginning the study of Latin, in his fourth year, and writing respectable verses at the age of seven. At the age of sixteen, he went to London to study in the Academy of the Rev. Thomas Rowe, an Independent minister. In 1698, he became assistant minister of the Independent Church, Berry St., London. In 1702, he became pastor. In 1712, he accepted an invitation to visit Sir Thomas Abney, at his residence of Abney Park, and at Sir Thomas' pressing request, made it his home for the remainder of his life. It was a residence most favourable for his health, and for the prosecution of his literary… Go to person page >

Text Information

First Line: Why do the wealthy wicked boast
Title: Charity to the Poor; or Religion in Words and Deeds
Author: Isaac Watts
Meter: 8.6.8.6
Language: English
Copyright: Public Domain

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The Cyber Hymnal #7453

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