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Author: Dr. Watts Hymnal: A Selection of Hymns #DXX (1792) Meter: 8.8.8.8 Topics: Times and Seasons Youth; Youth encouraged to seek the Lord; A lovely youth falling short of heaven First Line: Must all the charms of nature then Lyrics: 1 Must all the charms of nature then,
So hopeless to salvation prove?
Can hell demand, can heaven condemn
The man whom Jesus deigns to love?—
2 The man who sought the ways of truth,
Paid friends and neighbours all their due;
A modest, sober, lovely youth,
Who thought he wanted nothing new?
3 But mark the change: thus spake the Lord,
"Come, part with earth for heaven to-day,"
The youth, astonish'd at the word,
In silent sadness went his way.
4 Poor virtues, that he boasted so,
This test unable to endure,
Let Christ, and grace, and glory go,
To make his land and money sure!
5 Ah foolish choice of treasures here!
Ah fatal love of tempting gold!
Must this base world be bought so dear?
Are life and heav'n so cheaply sold?
6 In vain the charms of nature shine,
If this vile passion govern me;
Transform my soul, O love divine!
And make me part with all for thee. Scripture: Mark 10:21 Languages: English
A lovely youth falling short of Heaven