We went astray from the path of life; and
thy mercy came down from heav'n to seek us.
To seek us in the wilderness where we had
lost our selvs; and bring us home to the disci∣pline
of thy love.
Lord, what are we, that thou shouldst thus
regard * such poor and vile and inconsiderable
wretches!
What can our good will avail thy Blyss; that
with so many charms thou woo'st us to love
Thee!
What can our malice prejudice thy content;
that thou threatnest so violently if we love thee
not!
Is there, O my God, not felicity enough * in
the sweetness alone of loving Thee?
Is there perhaps not misery enough * in living
depriv'd of thy blysful love?
Yes, Yes, dear Lord, and that thou knew'st; and
that's the only cause * which mov'd thy good∣nes
to court our affections.
Thou knew'st we else would cast away our
selvs; * by doating on the follys of this deceit∣ful
world.
Thou knew'st the danger of our wilful na∣ture;
and therefore striv'st by greatest fears, and
greatest hopes.
And all the wisest arts of love, and bounty,
* to draw us to thy self and endow us with thy
kingdom.