Psalms ‎#119g

119g. Imperfection of Nature, and Perfection of Scriptures

1 Let all the heathen writers join
To form one perfect book,
Great God, if once compar'd with thine,
How mean their writings look.

2 Not the most perfect rules they gave
Could shew one sin forgiv'n;
Nor lead a step beyond the grave,
But thine conduct to heav'n.

3 I've seen an end to what we call
Perfection here below;
How short the pow'rs of nature fall,
And can no further go.

4 Yet men would fain be just with God,
By works their hands have wrought;
But thy commands, exceeding broad,
Extend to ev'ry thought.

5 In vain we boast perfection here,
While sin defiles our frame,
And sinks our virtues down so far,
They scarce deserve the name.

6 Our faith, and love, and ev'ry grace
Fall far below thy word;
But perfect truth and righteousness
Dwell only with the Lord.

Text Information

• First Line: Let all the heathen writers join
• Title: Imperfection of Nature, and Perfection of Scriptures
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1793
• Scripture:
  Psalm 119:96
• Notes: Now Public Domain. Seventh part

Tune Information

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