Author: Isaac Watts Meter: 8.6.8.6 Appears in 38 hymnals Scripture: Psalm 17 Lyrics:
O 'tis a lovely thing to see
A man of prudent heart,
Whose thoughts, and lips, and life agree
To act a useful part.
When envy, strife, and wars begin
In little angry souls,
Mark how the sons of peace come in,
And quench the kindling coals.
Their minds are humble, mild, and meek,
Nor let their fury rise;
Nor passion moves their lips to speak,
Nor pride exalts their eyes.
Their frame is prudence mixed with love,
Good works fulfil their day;
They join the serpent with the dove,
But cast the sting away.
Such was the Savior of mankind,
Such pleasures he pursued;
His flesh and blood were all refined,
His soul divinely good.
Lord, can these plants of virtue grow
In such a heart as mine?
Thy grace my nature can renew,
And make my soul like thine.
Topics: Saints and Sinners' portion; Sinner and saint's portion; Portion of saints and sinners; Courage in death; Death courage in it; Resurrection of the saints; Death of saints and sinners; Despair and hope in death; Grace tried by afflictions; Heaven of separate souls and resurrection; Hope and despair in death; Separate souls, heaven; Souls in separate state
O 'tis a lovely thing to see