By the thoughtless world derided

Verse 1

By the thoughtless world derided, Still I love the word of God; 'Tis the crook by which I'm guided, Often 'tis a chastening rod. 'Tis a sword that cuts asunder All my pride and vanity, When abased I lie, and wonder That he spares a wretch like me.

Verse 2

This confirms me when I waver, Sets my trembling judgment right; When I stray, how much soever, This is my restoring light: Satan oft, and sin, assail me With temptations ever new; Then there's nothing can avail me, Till my bleeding Lord I view.

Verse 3

Faith I need; O Lord, bestow it, Give my labouring mind relief; Oft, alas! I doubt, I know it, Help, oh help my unbelief. Dearest Saviour, by Thy merit May I gain a future crown; Guide, oh guide me by Thy Spirit, Till these storms are overblown.