James Montgomery · 159 of 363

Hymn 156: Work while it is to-day

HYMN CLVI.

Work while it is to-day! This was our Saviour's rule; With docile minds let us obey, As learners in His school.

We, as He did, should do, Who practised what he taught; By precept and example too Our master spake and wrought.

To work the works of God, Was His divine employ, And we must tread the path He trod, Or enter not His joy.

The night will come full soon, Life's day with morn may end; While many a sun goes down ere noon Few to their west descend.

Lord, Christ, we humbly ask Of Thee the power and will, With fear and meekness, every task Of duty to fulfil.

Our own salvation be Our first and constant aim, Then far and wide, o'er land and sea, Glad tidings to proclaim.

At home by word and deed, Adorn redeeming grace, And sow abroad the precious seed Of truth in every place.

That thus the wilderness May blossom like the rose, And trees spring up of righteousness, Where'er life's river flows.

For Thee our all to spend, Still may we watch and pray, And persevering to the end, Work while it is to-day.