POEMS

Life’s Conflict

In the deep recess of the inmost heart,
Where Satan tempts and angels come to shield,
Are foes by which we would be overcome,
Were Christ not with us on the battle-field.PSAS iv.1

The tempter, seeking whom he may devour,
Would sift as wheat, and finally prevail;
But Jesus intercedes and prays for us,
That faith in these dread conflicts may not fail.PSAS iv.2

These calls unheeded, who the end can know?
The Spirit grieved and angels forced to leave,
The victims, though unconscious, hastening where
No pardoning love is found, and no reprieve.PSAS iv.3

If yet there’s hope, one mighty effort make
To conquer, and the enemy defeat;
Watch unto prayer, in Jesus Christ abide,
And hasten to be made in him complete.PSAS iv.4

No true enjoyment here aside from this.
No other name on earth e’er to be given,
Through him we must be cleansed and purified,
Or closed to us will be the gates of Heaven.PSAS iv.5