By Nature All Men Are Sinners

Verse 1

Fools, in their hearts believe and say, "That all religion’s vain, "There is no God that reigns on high, "Or minds th’affairs of men."

Verse 2

From thoughts so dreadful and profane, Corrupt discourse proceeds; And in their impious hands are found Abominable deeds.

Verse 3

The Lord, from his celestial throne Look'd down on things below, To find the man that sought his grace, Or did his justice know.

Verse 4

By nature all are gone astray, Their practice all the same; There’s none that fears his Maker’s hand, There’s none that loves his name.

Verse 5

Their tongues are us'd to speak deceit, Their slanders never cease; How swift to mischief are their feet: Nor know the paths of peace.

Verse 6

Such seeds of sin (that bitter root) In ev'ry heart are found; Nor can they bear diviner fruit, 'Till grace refine the ground.