1 My heart has been too long ensnared,
In folly's hurtful ways;
Oh, may I be at length prepared,
To hear what wisdom says!
2 'Tis Jesus from the mercy-seat,
Invites me to his rest;
He calls poor sinners to his feet,
To make them truly blest.
3 Approach, my soul, to wisdom's gates,
Approach without delay:
No one who watches there and waits,
Shall e'er be turned away.
4 He will not let me seek in vain,
For all who trust his word
Shall everlasting life obtain,
And favor from the Lord.
5 Now I would break my league with death,
And live to thee alone;
Oh let thy Spirit's seal of faith,
Secure me for thine own.
The Hartford Selection of Hymns from the most approved authors, 1799