XIII.—The Danger of Delay.
1Why should I say, "'Tis yet too soon
to seek for heaven, or think of death?"
A flower may fade before 'tis noon,
and I this day may lose my breath.
2If this rebellious heart of mine
Despise the gracious call of Heaven,
I may be hardened in my sin,
and never have repentance given.
3What if the Lord grew wroth and swear,
while I refuse to read and pray,
That he'll refuse to lend an ear
to all my groans another day.
5What if his dreadful anger burn
while I refuse his offer'd grace,
And all his love to fury turn,
and strike me dead upon the place,
4Tis dangerous to provoke our God!
his power and vengeance none can tell;
One stroke of his Almighty rod
shall send young sinners down to hell.
6Then 'twill for ever be in vain
to cry for pardon and for grace,
To wish I had my time again,
or hope to see my Maker's face.