Hymns for the Amusement of Children (1791)/Humility

by Christopher Smart

For works with similar titles, see Humility.

HYMN VII.

HUMILITY.

Folly builds high upon the Sand,
But lowly let my Basis be;
Firm as a Rock my Hope shall stand,
Deep founded in Humility.

Content, when threat'ning Ills obtrude,
Sweet meek-ey'd Patience, arm my Soul;
And let a prudent Fortitude
Teach me my passions to controul.

My God, I long to know Thee still,
To love, and fear, and trust Thee more, <10>
To live submissive to thy Will,
And whilst I feel thy Grace, adore.

My Faith and Love, obedient be;
Dear Saviour! teach me thy Commands;
My ardent Soul still follows thee,
And trusts her Int'rests in thy Hands.

Let Love and Mercy, all divine,
Justice, descending from the Skies,
Kindness and Truth, my Heart incline,
Still to forgive mine Enemies.<20>

Thus may I act the Christian Part,
The Social, Human and Divine,
Whilst a wise Zeal inspires my Heart;
Then shall I know that Heaven is mine.