Doctor Watts's Imitation of the Psalms of David ‎#222b

222b. Complaint of quarrelsome Neighbours; or, a devout Wish for Peace

1 Thou God of love, thou ever-blest,
Pity my suffering state;
When wilt thou set my soul at rest,
From lips that love deceit?

2 Hard lot of mine! My days are cast
Among the sons of strife,
Whose never-ceasing quarrels waste
My golden hours of life.

3 Oh might I fly to change my place,
How would I choose to dwell
In some wide lonesome wilderness,
And leave these gates of hell!

4 Peace is the blessing that I seek,
How lovely are its charms!
I am for peace; but when I speak,
They all declare for arms.

5 New passions still their souls engage,
And keep their malice strong:
What shall be done to curb thy rage,
O thou devouring tongue!

6 Should burning arrows smite thee through,
Strict justice would approve;
But I would rather spare my foe,
And melt his heart with love.

Text Information

• First Line: Thou God of love, thou ever-blest
• Title: Complaint of quarrelsome Neighbours; or, a devout Wish for Peace
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1790
• Scripture:
  Psalm 120
• Topic: Complaint: of quarrelsome neighbors; Contention complained of; Evil Neighbors; Peace: with men desired; Slander: Deliverance from it

Tune Information

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