»; m iii i mn >va; Wh ?;:: m i if?H nn i i''"/ FROM THE LIBRARY OF REV. LOUIS FITZGERALD BENSON. D. D. BEQUEATHED BY HIM TO THE LIBRARY OF PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY y'-j- f % Digitized by tine Internet Arciiive in 2012 witii funding from Princeton Tlieological Seminary Library http://archive.org/details/divinemoOOwatt GIVmE mU MOBAL SONGS FOE CHILDEEX. MAR 14 1935 P R E P A C E. to all that akk concerxed ix the educatiox of childeex. ]\[y Feiexds, It is an awful and important cliarge tliat is committed to yon. The wisdom and welfare of the succeeding genera- tion are intrusted with you before hand, aud depend much on your conduct. The seeds of misery or happiness in this world, and that to come, are oftentimes sown very early ; and, therefore, Avhatever may conduce to give the minds of children a relish for virtue and religion oudit, in the first place, to be proposed to you. Verse was at first designed for the service of God, though it hath been wretchedly abused since. The ancients among the Jews and the Heathens tauglit their children and disciples the precepts of morality and worship in verse. The children uf Isvatd were commanded to h^arn tlie words 7 of tlie song of Moses, ])t'ut. xxxi. 19, 30; and wo aic directed in the Xew Testament, not only to sing '-'with grace in the heart," Init to "teach and admonish one another by hymns and songs," Eplies. v. ID. And there are these four advantages in it : 1. There is a great delight in the very learning of truths and duties this way. There is something so amusing and entertaining in rhymes and metre that will incline children to make this part of their business a diversion. And you may turn their very duty into a reward, by giving them the privilege of learning one of these songs every week, if they f'^lfil the business of the week well, and promising them the »ook itself, when they have learned ten or twenty songs out of it. 2. What is learned in verse is longer retained in memory, and sooner recollected. The like sounds and the like number of syllables exceedingly assist the remembrance. And it may often happen that the end of a song, running in the niijid, may be an elfectual means to keep off some temptations, or to incline to some duty, when a Avord of scripture is not upon their thoughts. ?). Tin's will be a constant furniture for tlu^ minds of cliihhcn, that they njay have something to think upon PREFACE. wlieu alone, and sing over to themselves. This may some- times give tlieir thoughts a divine turn, and raise a young meditation. Thus they will not be forced to seek relief for an emptiness of mind out of the loose and dangerous sonnets of the age. 4. These Divine Songs may be a pleasant and proper matter for their daily or weekly worship, to sing one in the family at such time as the parents or governors shall appoint ; and therefore I have confined the verse to the most usual psalm tunes. The greatest part of this little book was composed several years ago, at the request of a friend who has been long engaged in the work of catechising a very great number of children of all kinds, and with abundant skill and success. So that you will find here nothing that savours of a party : the children of high and low degree, of the Church of England or Dissenters, baptized in infancy or not, may all join together in these songs. And as I have endeavoured to sink the language to the level of a child's understanding, and yet to keep it, if possible, above contempt, so I have designed to profit all, if possible, and offend none. I hope the more general the sense is, these composures may be of the more universal use and service. 9 B FEE FACE. 1 have added at the end some atteiii])ts of sonnets on moral subjects, for cliildren, witli an air of pleasantry, to provoke some fitter pen to write a little book of them. May the Almighty God make you faithful in this im- portant work of education : may he succeed your cares with his abundant grace ; that the rising generation of Great Britain may be a glory among the nations, a pattern to the Christian world, and a blessing to the earth 1 I. W. PEEPACE TO THE PEESENT EDITION. AVhatever opinion may be entertained by connoisseurs as to the value of Dr. Watts's Hymns as ''Poems/' none can doubt the earnest piety which dictated them, nor the unmistakable popularity they have ever enjoyed, both at home and abroad, and which fully entitles them to be considered as genuine " Household AYoeds." Numerous as are the editions already published, more or less illustrated, none have as yet approached the standard of completeness or excellence which such popu- larity deserves. 11 P EFFACE. Tlie projectors of this effort fully believe that this want will he anijily supplied by the production of the present edition. The names and number of the artists employed, together with the general care and finish l)estowed through- out, they trust will be sufficient guarantee that their labour has not been in vain. It may be well to add that the whole of the Illustrations have been arranged and engraved under the entire direction of Mr. James D. Cooper. London, 1866. CONTENTS. DIVINE SONGS. raqe Almighty God, tliy piercing eye 43 And now another day is gone 79 Angels, that high in glory dwell 63 Be you to others kind and true 87 Bless'd be the wisdom and the power 27 Give to the Father praise 91 Great God, to thee my voice I raise 33 Great God, with wonder and with praise 37 Happy the child whose youngest years 49 Hosanna to king David's Son , 87 Hosanna to the Prince of Grace 88 Hosanna to the Son 89 How doth the little busy bee 65 How glorious is our heavenly King 21 I sing th' almighty power of God 23 Let children that would fear the Lord 73 Let dogs delight to Vark and bite 57 Lord, how delightful 'tis to see 83 Lord, T ascribe it to thy grace 35 Love God Avith all your soul and strengili 80 My God, who makes the sun to know 77 Now let the Father, and the Son 90 'tis a lovely thing for youth 55 13 CONTENTS. Page Our tongues were made to bless the Lord 61 The praises of my tongue 39 Tliere is a God that reigns above 45 There is beyond the sky 47 This is the day when Christ arose 8] Tliou shalt liave no more Gods but me . 85 To God the Father, God the Son 90 AVhat blest examples do I find 53 Whatever brawls disturb the street 59 "Whene'er I take my walks abroad 31 Why should I join with those in play 67 Why should I love my sports so well 75 Why should I say, *"Tis yet too soon" 51 Why should our garments, made to hide 69 With all thy soul love God above 86 MOEAL SOXGS. Abroad in tlic meadows, to sec the young lambs 97 How fair is the Rose ! what a beautiful Hower 99 }fow fine has the day been ! how bright was tlu> sun 109 Hush, n)y dear ! lie still, and slumber Ill These Emmets, how little they are in our eyes 103 Though I'm now in younger days 105 'Tis the voice of the Sluggard : I henrd him coniplaiii 95 Why should I deprive my neighbour 101 Subject. Artist. Fane Portrait of Dr. AVatts T. D. Scott ... 4 Title page T. Kennedy ... 5 Medallion Border Ditto .... 21 Do Ditto .... 22 The San Sisto Cherubs (after Eaphael) A. J, Waudby ... 22 Mountain Sunrise. Coast Scene E. M. Wimpfris . . 23 The Birth of the Brooklet T. Kennedy ... 24 African Lagoon Scene. Evening. "Creatures as numerous as they ha" Ditto .... 25 Moonlight E. M. Wimteris . . 26 Apple Border T. Kennedy ... 27 The Expulsion (after Eaphael) A. J. "Waudby ... 27 Passion Flower Border T. Kennedy ... 28 The Crucifixion (after Durer) W. J. Allen ... 28 Lily Border T. Kennedy ... 29 The Ascension (after Steinle) W. J. Allen ... 29 15 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Suhjfct. Artist. Page Angel of Judgment A. J. Waudby . . . 30 Chanty K. Barnes .... 31 Houseless Poor Ditto .... 32 *' Great God, to thee my voice I raise " Ditto .... 33 The Car of Juggernaut \V. Small .... 34 Family Reading HuGU Camehon . . 35 Negro worshipping Idol W. Small .... 36 Starlight and Moon rise T. Kennedy ... 37 "Meditate by Night" W. Small .... 38 Early Tuition Hugh Cameron . . 39 Holly Border T.Kennedy ... 40 Medallion, The Nativity (after Overbeck) . . . . W. J. Allen ... 40 Convolvulus Border T. Kennedy ... 41 Medallion. Descent of the Holy Ghost (after Callot). W. J. Allen ... 41 The Holy Dove A. J. Waudby ... 42 " Almighty God, thy piercing eye" R. Barnes .... 43 " Lord, at thy feet ashamed I lie " Ditto .... 44 Christ stilling the Storm R. P. Leitcii ... 45 The Fallen Tree T. Kennedy ... 46 ** Beyond " (after Kaulbach) ; . . . T.D.Scott. ... 47 Reaper R. Barnes .... 48 Home Influence Ditto .... 49 Early Death Ditto .... 50 '• A Flower may fade before 'tis noon " . » . . . T.Kennedy ... 51 Annie's Tomb Ditto .... 52 Our Saviour with the Doctors W. Small .... 53 The Infant Samuel (after Sir J. Reynolds) . . . . T. D. Scott ... 54 Ananias (after Raphael) W. J. Allen ... 55 " Keep Thou the door of my lips" W. Small .... 56 Lions Fighting H. Weir 57 The Holy Family (after Murillo) W. J. Allen ... 58 Brotherly Love W. Small .... 59 Cain and Abel Ditto .... 60 Reproof K. Barnes .... 61 Elisha mocked W. Small .... 62 16 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Snbject. Artist. Page *'Angels,thathighiiigloiTd\veir'(afterSirJ. Roynol(ls) T. D. Scott. ... 63 Shun the profoiie AV. Small .... 64 Bees, Foxglove, and Bramble Blossom T. Kexnkdy ... 6') Bee Hives Ditto .... 66 The Truants AV. Small .... 67 Seeking Wisdom Ditto .... 68 The Tain Cliild R. Baknes .... 69 Tulip and Azaleas T. Kennedy ... 70 Nastui'tium, Fuschia, and Butterfly Ditto .... 71 Flower Finial Ditto .... 72 Obedience to Parents W. Small .... 73 The Curse of Disobedience Ditto .... 74 The Young Angler Ditto .... 75 Before Rest R. Barnes .... 76 Early Sunrise E. M. "Wimperis . . 77 Jtlower and Lark W. Small .... 78 " And now another day is gone " Ditto .... 79 " Let Angels guard my head " Ditto .... 80 Lord's Day. Morning R. Barnes .... 81 Toys put aside Ditto .... 82 Lord's Day. Evening Ditto .... 83 Infant Slumber "\V. Small .... 84 Moses and the Tables of the Law Ditto .... So Floral Initials T. Kennedy ... 86 Floral Initials Ditto .... 87 Christ riding into Jenisalam (after Overbeck) . . . AV. J. Allen ... 88 On Calvary W. Small .... 89 Initial Letters T. Kennedy . . 90, 91 The Holy Dove. Emblems of the Trinity .... A. J. AVaudby . . . 91 Cherubin and Seraphin Ditto .... 92 The Sluggard W. Small .... 95 The Sluggard's Garden Ditto .... 96 Lambs in the Meadows J. Lee 97 Boys throwing pebbles - "\V. S.mall .... 98 The Full-blown Rose T. Kennedy ... 99 17 c LIST i>F ILU'STIiATKtXS. Sl(hj€ct In Memoriani The Dishonest StTvniit The licsult .... The Emmets on tht- Path Foresight Younger Days . . . Pity tlie Maimed . . Relief in Distress . Filial Respect Sunset . . Sunrise . . Cradle Lullahy Vine Border . Carnation Border AVhilst Shepherds watcho( The Nativity . Fini.s. Maternal .Toy ArtL^t. Page T. Kennedy ... 100 W. Small . 101 Ditto . 102 J. Lee . . 103 T. Kennedy 104 ^V. Small . 105 Ditto . 106 Ditto . 107 Ditto . 108 E. M. WlMPERI s 109 Ditto . 110 R. Baiine.s . 111 T. Kennedy 112 Ditto . 113 W. Small . . 114 Ditto . 115 R. Barnes . . IIG GiVJHE SOHGS. 21 TKAISE FOR CREA.TIOX AND PROVIDENrK. I SING til' almighty power of God, That made the mountains rise, That spread the flowing seas abroad, And built the lofty skies. I sing the wisdom that ordain'd The sun to rule the day : Tlie moon shines full at his command, And all the stars obey. 23 DIVINE SONGS. \> \ X''-^^L. I sing the goodness of the Lord, That fill'd tlie earth witli food : He form'd the creatures with his word, And then pronounced them good. Lord, how tliy wonders are display'd, Where'er I turn mine eye, If I survey the ground I tread, Or gaze upon the sky ! There's not a plant or flower below. But makes thy glories known And clouds arise and tempests blow, By order from tliy throne. CREATION AND PROVIDENCE. Creatures — as numerous as they be — Ave subject to tliy cave : Tlieve's not a place wheve we can flee. But God is present tbeve. In heaven he shines witli beams of love, With wrath in hell beneath : 'Tis on his eavth I stand ov move, And 'tis liis air I bvt^athe. His hand is my perpetual guard, He keeps me with his eye : Why should I then forget the Lord, \4l ^\ PllAISE TO GOD FOll OUK REDEMPTION. Blest be tlie wisdom and the power, Tlie justice and the grace, Tliat join'd in counsel to restore And save our ruin'd race ! Our father ate forbidden fruit. And from his glory fell ; And we, his children, thus were brought To death, and near to hell. inilSE SitNGti. FOR OUR REDE MFT ION. Beliold liiiii rising fnnu the giave ; V 7^ /y Beliold liiiii raised on high: ■ He pleads his merits there, to save TransoTcssors dooni'd to die. There, on a glorious throne, he reigns ; And by his power divine Redeems us Ironi the shivifeh chains DIVINE SONGS. Thence shall the Lord to judgment come ; And, with a sovereign voice, Shall call and break up every tomb, AVliile waking saints rejoice. may I then with joy appear Before the Judge's face ; And, with the blest assembly there. Sing his redeeming grace. ji^S^rf fm^ !f , PRAISE FOR MERCIES. Whene'er I take my walks abroad, How many poor I see ! What shall I. render to my God For all his gifts to me? Not more than others I deser^'e, Yet God hath given me more : For I have food, while others starve, Or beo" from door to door. DTVTXE S(fXaS. How many cliihlren in tlic street Half nak(Ml I beliold : Wliile I am clothed from licad to feet, And cover'd from tlie cold. AVliile some poor wretches scarce can tell AVhere they may lay their head, 1 liave a home wherein to dwell, And ivst upon my bed. AVhile others early learn to swear, And curse, and lie, and steal, Lord, I am taught thy name to fear, And do thy holy will. Are these thy favours, day by day. To me above the rest? Then let me love thee more than they. And try to S(^rve thee best. PKAISE FOJi BlliTH AND EDUCATION IN A CHRISTIAN LAND. Gkeat God, to thee my voice I raise, To tliee my youngest hours beloug : T would begin my life with praise, Till growing years improve the song. 'Tis to thy sovereign grace I owe Tluit I was born on Christian ground ; Where streams of lieavenly mercy flow, And words of sweet salvation sound. DIVINE SONG>i. I would not change my native land Per rich Peru, with all her gold : A nobler prize lies in my hand Than east or western Indies hold. Ifow do I pity those that dwell Where ignorance and darkness reign ! They know no heaven — they fear no hell — That endless joy — that endless pain. Thy glorious promises, Lord, Kindle my hopes and my desire : While all the preachers of thy word Warn me t' escape eternal fire. Tliy praise shall still employ my breath, Since thou hast mark'd my way to heaven Nor will I run the road to death. And waste the blessings thou hast given. X >*'^' •*■■.«? A ^^^^^ PRAISE FOE THE GOSPEL. Lord, I ascribe it to tliy grace, And not to cliance as others do, That I was born of Christian race, And not a heathen, or a Jew. What would the ancient Jewish kings And Jewish prophets once have given. Could thev have heard those glorious djn: thmgs WTiich Christ reveal'd and brought from heaven ! 35 I'lViyE S(>M!S. Jluw glad the llcatlien.s wc.iikl liave been, That worsliipp'd idols, wood, and stone, li' they the book of God had seen, Or Jesus and his gospel known ! Then, if the (;osi)el I refuse, How shall I e'er lilt uj) mine eyes ^ For all the (Jentiles and tlie Jews Against nie will in jndgment rise. h The stars that in their courses roll Have much instruction given ; But thy good Word informs my soul How I may climb to heaven. The fields provide me food, and show The goodness of the Lord ; But fruits of life and glory grow In thy most holy Word. 37 DIVINE SONGS. Here are my choicest treasures hid ; Here my best comfort lies ; Here my desires are satisfied; And lience my joys arise. Lord, make me understand thy law : Show what my faults have been ; And from thy Gospel let me draw Pardon for all my sin. Here would I learn how Christ has died To save my soul from hell : Not all the books on earth beside Such heavenly wonders tell. Then let me love my Bible more ; And take a fresh delight By day to read these wonders o'er, And meditate bv ni^rht. PRAISE TO GOD FOR LEARNING TO READ. The praises of my tongue I offer to the Lord, That I was taught and learnt so young To read his holy Word. 39 IUVTNE SONGS. That I am brought to know The danger I was in ; By nature, and by practice too, A wretched slave to sin. That I am led to see 1 can do nothing we And whitl\(M' shall a sinner flee, To save himself iVom hell? •io LEARNING TO READ. Here I can read and learn How Christ, the Son of God, Did undertake our great concern ; Our ransom cost his blood. And now he reigns above, He sends his Spirit down, To show the wonders of his love, And make his Gospel known. O may that Spirit teach, And make my iieart receive Those truths which all thy ser- vants preach, And all thy saints believe. .s ^^ DIVINE SONG.^. Then shall I pmise the Lurd 111 a more cheerful strain, That I ^vas taught to read his AVord, And have not learnt in vain. ftiC IK. ALL-SEEING GOD. Almighty God, thy x^iercing eye Strikes through the shades of nighty And our most secret actions lie All open to tlr There's not a sin that we commit, Nor wicked word we say, But ill thy dreadful book 'tis writ Against the judgment-day. And must the crimes that I have done Be read and publish'd there ; Be all exposed' before the sun, While men and aiiGfels hear? DIVINE SOXGS. Lord, at thy feet asliamed I lie ; Upward I dare not look : Pardon my sins before I die, And blot them from thy book. Remember all the dying pains That my Redeemer felt ; And let his blood wash out my stains, And answer for my guilt. may I now for ever fear T' indulge a sinful thought, Since the great God can see and hear, And writes down ev'ry fault ! SOLEMN THOUGHTS ON GOD AND DEATH. Theke is a God that reigns above, Lord of the heavens, and earth, and seas I fear his wrath, I ask his love, And witli my lips I sing his praise. There is a lav/ which he has writ. To teach us all what w^e must do : My soul, to his commands submit, For they are holy, just, and true. DIVINE SONGS. There is a Gospel of rich grace, Whence sinners all their comforts draw : Lord, I repent, and seek thy face, For I have often broke tliy law. Tliere is an hour when I must die, Nor do I know how soon 'twill come : A thousand children, young as 1, Are call'd by death to hear tlieir doom. Let me improve the hours I have. Before the day of grace is fled : There's no repentance in the grave, No pardon ofter'd to the dead. Just as a tree cut down, that fell To north or southward, there it lies. So man departs to heaven or liell, Fix'd in the state wherein he dies. hiriyE noa7;n. There is a dreadful hell, And everlasting pains : There sinners must with devils dwi'll Tn darkness, fire, and chains. Can such a wretch as I Escape this cursed end? And may I hope, whcme'er 1 die, I shall to heaven ascend ? Then will I read and pray. While I have life and breath, Lest I should be cut off to-day, And sent t' eternal death. THE ADVANTAGES OF EAKLY KELIGIOX. Happy the child whose youngest years Eeceive instructions well ; Who hates the sinner's path, and fears The road that leads to hell. When we devote our youth to God, 'Tis pleasing in his eyes ; A flower, when offer'd in the hue Is no vain sacrifice. 49 T>:VTNE SO^Gl 'Tis easier work if we begin To fear the Lord betimes ; AVhile sinners, that grow old in sin, Are harden'd in thoir crimes. 'Twill save us from a thousand snares To mind religion young : Grace will preserve our following years, And make our virtue strong. To thee, Almighty Clod, to thee Our childhood we resign : 'Twill ])lease us to look back and see Tliat our whole lives were thine. Let the sweet work of prayer and praise Employ my youngest breath ! Thus I'm prepared for longer days, Or fit for early (l(\ath. THE DANGER OF DELAY. Why should I say, "'Tis yet too soon "To seek for heaven or thmk of death?" A flower may fade before 'tis noon, And I this day may lose my breath. If this rebellious heart of mine Despise the gracious calls of Heaven, I may be harden'd in my sin, And never have repentance given. ^^^lat if tlie Lord grow ^vroth, and swear, While I refuse to read and pray, That he'll refuse to lend an ear To all my groans another day ! 51 DIVINE SONGS. What if his dreadful anger buru, While I refuse his ofifer'd grace, And all his love to anger turn, And strike me dead upon tlie place ! Tis dangerous to provoke a God ! His power and vengeance none can tell One stroke of his almighty rod Shall send young sinners quick to hell. Then 'twill for ever be in vain To cry for pardon or for grace; To wish I had my time again, Or hope to see my Maker's face. EXAMPLES OF EAKLY PIETY. What blest examples do I find AVrit in the Word of Truth, Of children that began to mind Religion in their youth ! Jesus, who reigns above the sky And keeps the world in awe, Was once a child as young as I And kept his Father's law. 53 DIVINE ySONGS. At twelve years old lie talk'd ^vitll men, (The Jews all Avonderiug stand;) Yet lie obey'd his Mother then, And came at her command. Children a sweet hosanna sung, And blest their Saviour's name; They gave him honour with their tongue, AVhile scribes and priests blaspheme. ISamuel the child was ^vean'd and brought To wait upon the Lord : Young Timothy betimes was taught To know his holy AVord. Then why should I so long delay AVhat others learnt so soon? 1 would not pass another day Without this work begun. 'tis a lovely thing for youtli To ^valk betimes in ^visdom^s way To fear a lie, to speak the truth, That we may trust to all they say But liars yve can never trust, Though they should speak the thing that's true ; And ]ie that does one fault at first. And lies to hide it, makes it two. Have Ave not known, nor heard, nor read How God abhors deceit and wrong? How Ananias was struck dead, Caught w4th a lie upon his tongue? 55 DIVINE SONGS. So did his wife Sappliira die, When she came in, and grew so bold As to confirm tliat wicked lie, Which just before her husband told. The Lord delights in them that speak The words of truth ; but every liar !Must have his portion in the lake That burns with brimstone and with fire. Then let me always watch my lips, Lest I be struck to death and hell, Since God a book of reckoning keeps For every lie that children tell. AGAINST QUARRELLING AND FIGHTING. Let dogs delight to bark and bite, For God hath made them so : Let bears and lions growl and fight, For 'tis their nature, too. , 57 TT inVTNE SONOS. ]*ut, cliilJreii, you sliould never let Such angry passions rise : Your little hands were never made To tear each other's eyes. Jxt love through all your actions lun, And all your words he mild : Liv^e like the blessed Virgin's Son, That sweet and lovely child. His soul was gentle as a lamb ; And as his stature grew, He grew in favour both with man, And God his Father, too. Now, Lord of all, he reigns above ; And from his heavenly throne He sees what children dwell in love, And marks them for his own. '.-i. ;l LOVE BETWEEN BROTHEKS AND SISTEKS. Whatever brawls disturb the street, There should be peace at home ; Where sisters dwell and brothers meet Quarrels should never come. Birds in their little nests agree And 'tis a shameful si^ht, When children of one family Fall out, and chide, and fioJit. ^'OiA DIVINE S0NG;S. Hard names at first, and threatening words, That are but noisy breath, ^lay grow to ehibs and naked swords, To murder and to death. The devil tempts one mother's son To rage against anotlier : So wicked Cain was hurried on, TiU he had kill'd his brother. The wise will let their anger cool. At least before 'tis night ; But in the bosom of a fool It burns till morning light. Pardon, Lord, our childish rage, Our little brawls remove. That, as we grow to riper age, Our hearts may all be love ! AGAIXST SCOFFING AND CALLING NAMES. OuE tongues were made to bless the Lord, And not speak ill of men : When others give a railing word, We must not rail again. Gioss words and angry names require To be chastised at school; And he's in danger of hell- fire That calls his brother fool. 61 in VINE ,SOiV(VN. lUit lips that dare be so pioi'aiie To mock, and jeer, and scoff At holy things, or holy men, The Lord shall cut them off. When eliildren, in their wanton play, Served old Elislia so, And bade the prophet go his wa}', ' Go up, thou bald head, go ! ' ^ CJod quickly stopp'd their wicked breath And sent two raging bears, That tore them limb from limb to death, With blood, and groans, and tears. CJreat God ! how terrible art thou To sinners e'er so young : Grant me thy grace, and teach me how To tame and rule my tongue. DIVINE SONGS. And yet liow -wicked cliildrcn dare Abuse thy dreadful, glorious Name ! And when they're angry, how they swear, And curse their fellows, and blaspheme ! How will they stand before thy face, Who treated thee with such disdain, While thou shalt doom them to the place Of everlasting fire and pain ? Then never shall one cooling drop To quench their burning tongues be given ; But I will praise thee here, and hope Thus to employ my tongue in heaven, My lieart shall be in pain to hear Wretches affront the Lord above : 'Tis that great God whose power I fear, That heavenly Father whom I love. If my companions grow profane, I'll leave thoir friendship when I hear Young sinners take thy Name in vain, And learn to curse, and learn to swear. m^K AGAINST IDLENESS AND MISCHIEF. How dotli the little busy bee Improve each shining hour, And gather honey all the day From every opening flower ! -^ \4 , ^^^ 1*1 VISE SONGS. How skilfully she builds her cell ! How neat she spreads tlie wax ! And labours hard to store it well AVith the sweet food she makes. In works of labour or of skill T would be busy too : F(jr Satan finds some mischief still Vov idle hands to do. In books, or work, or healthful play Let my first years be past, That I may give for every day Some good account at last. «S^| AG\I^ST EVIL COMrVXY ; Why should I join with those in play I In whom I've no delight; p AVho curse and sw^ear, but never pray ; ' Who call ill names, and fioht? mm ^ ' |) I hate to hear a wanton song : Their words oftend my ears: '•^^V -^V-^ ' I should not dare defile my touijue -^^- ^ .^H With lan(?ua<]re such as then-s. C7 DIVINE SONGS. Away from fools I'll turn my eyes, Nor with the scoffers go : r would be walking with tlie wise, Tliat wiser I may grow. From one rude boy, that's used to mock^ They learn the wicked jest : One sickly sheep infects the flock, And poisons all the rest. jNly God, I hate to walk or dwell With sinful children here : Then let me not be sent to hell, Where none but sinners are. m mm Km AGAINST PEIDE IN CLOTHES. ^^^^/fiM Why should our garments, made to hide Our parents' shame, provoke our pride ? The art of dress did ne'er begin Till Eve our mother learnt to sin. nniSE SONGS. When first she put the covering on, Her robe of innocence was gone; And yet lier cliildren vainly boast In tlie sad marks of glory lost. How proud we are ! how fond to shew Our clothes, and call them rich and new, When the poor sheep and silkworms wor That very clothing long before ! The tulip and tlie butterfly Appear in gayer coats tlian T : Let me be dress'd fine as I wil Flies, worms, and flowers exceed me still. ^'' PRir>E ly CLOTHES. Then will 1 set my heart to lind Inward adornin<^rs of the mind : Knowledge and virtue, truth and grace, These are the robes of richest dress. No more shall worms with me compare, ^/ This is the raiment angels wear : I "^ The Son of God, when here below, Put on this blest apparel too. It never fades, it ne'er grows old, Xor fears the rain, nor moth, nor mould; It takes no spot, but still refines ; The more 'tis worn, tlie more it shines. DIVINE SONGS. In this on earth would 1 api)ear, Then go to heaven, and wear it there God will approve it in his sight ; 'Tis his own \vork, and his delight. JiiiMiii. OBEDIENCE TO TARENTS. Let children that would fear the Lord Hear what tlieir teachers say ; With reverence meet their parents' word, And ^^ith delight obey. DIVINE SONGS. Have you not heard what dreadful phigues Are tlireaten'd by the Lord, To him that Lreaks his fathers hiw, Or mocks his mother's word ? What heavy guilt upon him lies ! , How cursed is his name ! The ravens shall pick out his eyes, And eagles eat the same. But those who worship God, and give Their parents honour due, Here on this earth they long shall live, And live liereafter, too. feM^i^ V ^i-^'/ \f^ THE child's complaint. :^ Why should 1 love my sports so Avell, ^ So constant at my play, And lose the thonghts of heaven and hell. And then forget to pray? 75 DIVINE SONGS. AVhat do I read my Bible for, But, Lord, to learn thy will? And shall I daily know thee more, And less obey thee still? How senseless is my heart, and wild How vain are all my thoughts ! Pity the weakness of a child, And pardon all my faults. ]\Iake me thy heavenly voice to hear, And let me love to pray ; Since God will lend a gracious ear To what a child can say. ^u K ^W' A MOEXIXG SONG. My God, wlio makes the sun to know His proper liour to rise ; And, to give light to all below, Doth send him round the skies: 77 DIVINE SONGS. When from the chambers of the east His morning race begins, He never tires, nor stops to rest, But round the world he shines. So, like the sun, would I fulfil The business of the day ; Begin my work betimes, and still ]\Iarch on my heavenly way. Give me, O Lord, thy early grace, Nor let my soul complain Tliat the young morning of my days Has all been spent in vain ! AN EVENING SONG. And now another day is gone, I'll sing my Makers praise! My comforts every hour make known His providence and grace. 79 DIVINE SONGS. But how my childhood runs to waste My sins how great their sum ! Lord, give me pardon for the past. And strength for days to come. I hay my body down to sleep, Let angels guard my head ; And, through the hours of darkness, keep Their watch around my bed. With cheerful heart I close mine eyes. Since thou wilt not remove ; And in the morning let me rise Rejoicing in thy love. FOR THE LOEDS-D.\Y MORNING. This is the day when Christ arose So early from the dead : Why should I keep my eyelids close, And waste my hours in bed? 81 DIVINE SONGS. This is the clay when Jesus broke The powers of death and hell; And shall 1 still wear Satan's yoke, And love my sins so well ? To-day, with pleasure, Christians meet. To pray, and hear thy AVord ; And I would go with cheerful feet To learn thy will, Lord! I'll leave my sport, to read and pray, And so prepare for heaven : may I love this blessed day The best of all the seven ! FOE THE LORDS-DAY EVENING. LOED, how delightful 'tis to see A whole assembly worship thee ! At once they sing, at once they pray ; They hear of heaven, and learn the way. 83 DIVINE SONGS. I have been there, and still would go 'Tis like a little heaven below ! Not all my pleasure and my play Should tempt me to foi-get this da}^ write upon my memoiy, Lord, The text and doctrines of thy Word ; That I may break thy laws no more. But love thee better than before ! With thoughts of Christ and things divine Fill up this foolish heart of mine : That, hoping pardon through his blood, 1 may lie down, and wake with God. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. 1. Thou slialt have no more Gods but me. 2. Before no idol bow thy knee. 3. Take not the Name of God in vain : 4. 'Not dare the Sabbath-day profane. 5. Give both thy parents honour due. G. Take heed that thou no murder do. 7. Abstain from words and deeds unclean : 8. ISTor steal, though thou aft poor and mean 9. Nor make a wilful lie, nor love it. 10. What is thy neighbour's dare not covet. 85 THE SU-Af OF THE COMMANDMENTS. ' ITH all thy soul love God above ; Vnd as thyself thy neighbour love. n M'V DUTV TO GOD AND OUR NEIGHBOUR. OVE God with all your soul and strength, With all your heart and mind ; And love your neighbour as yourself: ->c- Be faithful, just, and kind. Deal with another as you'd have Another deal with you : Wliat you're unwilling to receive, Be sure you never do. 86 OUR SAVIOUR S GOLDEX RULE. E you to others kind and true, As you'd have others be to you ; w vl- %s^ ^iid neither do nor say to men Whate'er you vould not take again. THE HOSANXA ; OR SALVATION ASCRIBED TO CHRIST. OSANNA to king David's Son, ^Yho reigns on a superior throne ! We bless the Prince of heavenly birth, VTko brinofs salvation down to earth. Let every nation, every age, In this delightful work engage ; Old men and babes in Sion sing The growing glories of her King ! 87 IIoSANNA to the Prince of Grace; Sion, behold thy King ! Proclaim the Son of David's race, And teach the babes to sing. Hosanna to tlie eternal Word, AVho iVoni llie Father came; Ascribe salvation to tlie Lord, Witli blessings on his Name ! 88 j AVI 10 made our peace with Leaven. 89 God tlie Father, God the Son, And God tlie Spirit, Tliree in One, l>e hononr, praise, and glory given, V))' all on eiirth, and all in heavcMi. OW let the Father, and the Son, And S])ii'it lie adored, Whei'c tlu-re are works to make him known. Or saints to love the Lord. '■lllir fiVE to the Father praise, Give glory to the Son, And to the Spirit of his Grace Be equal honour done. 91 MOHAL HOHGS. A SLIGHT SPECIMEN; Such as I wish some happy and condescending genius would undertake for the use of children, and perform much better. The sense and subjects might be borrowed plentifully from the Proverbs of Solomon, from all the common appear- ances of nature, from all the occuirences of civil life, both in city and country (which would also afford matter for other divine songs). Here the language and measures should be easy, and flowing with cheerfulness, with or Avith- out the solemnities of religion, or the sacred names of God and holy things : that children might find delight and profit together. This would be one effectual way to deliver them from those idle, wanton, or profane songs, which give so early an ill taint to the fancy and memory ; and become the seeds of future vices. THE S L U a G A K D. 'Tis the voice of tlie Sluggard : I heard him complain, ' You have waked me too soon ! I must slumber again ! ' As the door on its hinges, so he on his bed Turns his sides, and his shoulders, and his heavy head. ' A little more sleep, and a little more slumber ! ' Thus he ^^'astes half his days and his hours without number; And when he gets up he sits folding his hands. Or walks about sauntering, or trifling he stands. 95 MORAL SOXGS I pass'd by his garden, and saw the wild brier, The thorn, and the thistle grow broader and higher : Tlie clothes that hang on him are turning to rags ; And his money still wastes, till he starves or he be^^s. I made him a visit, still hoping to find He had took better care for improving his mind: He told me his dreams, talk'd of eating and drinking; But he scarce reads his Bible, and never loves thiiikin<^ Said I then to my heart, ' Here's a lesson for me ! That man's but a picture of what I miojit be • But thanks to my friends for their care in my breeding, Who have taught me by times to love working and readinLi" !" ';Ai-- Ir^W':'^ T'l ''•'ik-^ .l> Abkoad in the meadows, to see the young lambs Eun sporting about by the side of their dams, With fleeces so clean and so white; Or a nest of young doves in a large open cage, ^Yhen they play all in love, without anger or rage, How much may we learn from the sight 97 N MORAL SONGS. If we had been ducks, we might dabble in mud ; Or dogs, we might pLay till it ended in blood: So foul and so fierce are their natures ; But Thomas and AVilliam, and such pretty names. Should be cleanly and harmless as doves or as lambs, Those lovely sweet innocent creatures. !N'ot a thing that we do, nor a word that we say, Should injure another in jesting or play ; For he's still in earnest that's hurt : How rude are the boys that throw pebbles and mire ; There's none but a madman will fling abont fire. And tell you, "'Tis all but in sport." -- THE ROSE. How fair is the Eose ! what a beautiful flower ! The glory of April and May : But the leaves are beginning to fade in an hour, And they wither and die in a day. 99 MORAL SONGS. Yet the I\ose lias one powerful virtue to boast, Above all the Iknvers of the field ! "When its leaves are all dead and fine colours are lost, Still how SAveet a perfume it Avill yield ! So frail is the youth and the beauty of man, Though they bloom and look gay like the Eose ; But all our fond care to preserve them is vain, Time kills them as fast as he goes. Then I'll not be proud of my youth and my beauty, Since both of them wither and fade ; But gain a good name by well doing my duty : This will scent like a Rose when I'm dead. Why should I deprive my neighbour Of his goods against his will? Hands were made for honest labour, Not to plunder, or to steal. 'Tis a foolish self-deceiving By such tricks to hope for gain : All that's ever got by thieving Turns to sorrow, shame, and pain. 101 MORAL SONGS. Have not Eve and Adam tauglit us Their sad profit to compute, To what dismal state they brought us AVhen they stole forbidden fruit? Oft we see a young beginner Practise little pilfering ways, Till grown up a harden'd sinner, Then the gallows ends his days. Theft will not be always hidden, Though we fancy none can spy: When we take a thing forbidden, God beholds it with his eye. Guard my heart, God of heaven, Lest I covet what's not mine; Lest I steal what is not given, Guard my heart and hands from sin. mi THE ANT, OR EMMET. These Emmets, how little they are in our eyes ! We tread them to dust, and a troop of them dies. Without our regard or concern : Yet, as wise as we are, if we w^ent to their school, There's many a sluggard and many a fool Some lessons of wisdom might learn. They w^ear not their time out in sleeping or play. But gather up corn in a sunshiny day. And for winter they lay up their stores : They manage their work in such regular forms, One would think they foresaw all the frosts and the storms. And so brought their food withindoors. ^"^ ^ 103 MORAL SONGS. Lut 1 have less sense than a poor creeping Ant, If I take not due care for the things I shall want, Xor provide against dangers in time ; AVhen death or old age shall once stare in my face, AVhat a wretch shall I be in the end of my days. If I trifle away all their prime ! Xow, now, while my strength and my youth are in bloom, Let me think what shall serve me when sickness shall come. And pray that my sins be forgiven. Let me read in good Ijooks, and believe, and ol)ey ; That, when death turns me out of this cottage of clay, 1 may dwell in a palace in heaven. GOOD RESOLUTIONS. Though I'm now in younger days, Nor can tell what shall befall me, I'll prepare for every place Where my growing age shall call me. Should I e'er be rich or great, Others shall partake my goodness I'll supply the poor with meat, Never shewing scorn or rudeness. 105 MORAL SONGS. -at AVliere I see the blind or lame. Deaf or dumb, I'll kindly treat them T deserve to feel the same, Tf I mock, or hurt, or cheat them. If I meet with railing tongues, Wliy should I return them railing, /, Since T best revenge my wrongs By my pntience never failing? When 1 hear them telling lies, Talking foolish, cursing, swearing, First I'll try to make them wise, Or I'll soon i^o out of hearing. \ni\ rrOOl) RESOLUTIONS. ^m What though I he low or iiieciii, I'll engage the rich to love me, While I'm modest, neat, and clean. And submit when they reprove me. If I should be poor and sick, I shall meet, I hope, with pity ; Since I love to help the weak, Thdngh they're neither fair nor witt^ 107 MORAL SONGS. I'll not willingly oli'end, Nor be easily offended: AVhat's amiss I'll strive to mend, And endure what can't be mended. ]\Iay I be so watchful still O'er my humours and my passion, As to speak and do no ill, Though it should be all the fashion. Wicked fashions lead to hell ; Ne'er may I be found complying ; But in life behave so well, Not to be afraid of dying. How fine has the day been ! how bright was the sun How lovely and joyful the course that he run ; Though he rose in a mist when his race he begun, And there follow'd some droppings of rain : But now the fair traveller's come to the west, His rays are all gold, and his beauties are best; He paints the skies gay as he sinks to his rest, And foretells a bright risino- aaain. 109 MORAL S(fXGS. Just such is llic Cliristiaii. His cuuisc lie begins Like the suu in a mist, while he mourns for his sins, And melts into tears ! then he breaks out and shines. And travels his heavenly way : But when he comes nearer to finish his race, Like a fine setting sun, he looks richer in grace ; And gives a sure hope, at the end of his days, Of rising in brighter array. ^*Ml' Ylir.— CRADLE HYMN. ': USH, my dear ! Lie still, and slumber ! Holy angels guard thy bed ! Heavenly blessings, without number Gently falling on thy head. MORAL SONGS. ^-/ '^'^ 'Ca"; L»^-^\ ;.iA ►'^leop, my babe! thy food aiK I raiment, House and liome, tliy friends provide ; ' All witliout tliy care or payment, All thy wants are well supplied. How much better thou'rt attended f Than the Son of (^od could be, AVhen from lieaven lie descended, And became a child like thee ! Soft and easy is thy cradle: Coarse and hard thy Saviour lay, \Mien his birthplace was a stabl(\ And his softest bed was hay. ii>'- v 112 CRADLE HYMX. -^ ^% X d Blessed Babe ! what glorious features, — Spotless fair, divinely bright ! Must he dwell with brutal crea- tures ? How could angels bear the sight? Was there nothing but a manger Cursed sinners could afford, To receive the heavenly stranger? Did they thus affront the Lord ? Soft, nay child I I did not chide thee, Though my song might sound too hard : 'Tis thy mother sits beside thee, And her arm shall be thy guard. J ,, ^ /- { ^i 113 MORAL SONGS. 1^1 W\ Yet to read the sliameful story, |j^Y^ How the Jews abused their King, X^ ' How they served the Lord of Glory, M/- Makes me angry while I sing. See the kinder shepherds round him, Telling wonders from the sky 1 Where they sought him, there they found him, AYith his Virgin-mother by. See the lovely Babe a-dressing: / Lovely infant, how he smiled! '5 When he wept, his mother's blessing Sooth'd and hush'd the holy Cliild. t^' "/"* Ss.^ 114 CRADLE HYMX, '\ •r^ C Lo, he slumbers in a manger, /f 'a Where the horned oxen fed ! — /v \ Peace, my darling, here's no danger : There's no ox a-near tliy bed. Twas to save thee, child, from dying. Save my dear from burning flame, Bitter groans and endless crying, That thy blest Eedeemer came. ^lay'st thou live to know and fear him. Trust and love him all thy days, Then go dwell for ever near him : See his face, and sing his praise ! 115 MORAL SONGS. I could give thee thousand kisses ! Hoping what I most desire, Not a mother's fondest wishes Can to greater joys aspire ! ._/| d • - TSrTTiJf -r.-^Tr. ViT-' ■v>.^.WU,^•!i^\•.o