HAPPY the youth whose heav'n-born choice
Turns him from sin's destructive way;
Who gives his ear to wisdom's voice,
And strives her precepts to obey.
Conscious of guilt, his only rest
Is found when Calv'ry meets his view::
He flies to his Redeemer's breast,
And vows to be his servant too.
By earnest prayer for light and grace,
He gains, each day, a fresh supply;
And thus, unwearied, runs the race
That leads him to the prize on high.
Protected by almighty pow'r
His steadfast soul no terror knows,
Though war awaits him, ev'ry hour,
With armies of surrounding foes.
In vain the world employs her wiles
To check his course, with varied art:
Against her frowns, against her smiles,
Firm faith securely guards his heart.
In works of piety to God,
And love to man, he spends his years;
And when he feels affliction's rod,
Sweet peace is mingled with his tears
His life with growing lustre shines
Till all the toils of life are past:
His breath then calmly he resigns,
Trusting his Saviour to the last.
Attendant angels, while they sing
His victory, their friend convey
Up to the presence of their King,
The region of eternal day.