Charity to the Poor; or Religion in Words and Deeds

Verse 1

Why do the wealthy wicked boast, And grow profanely bold? The meanest portion of the just, Excels the sinner’s gold.

Verse 2

The wicked borrows of his friends, But ne’er designs to pay; The saint is merciful and lends, Nor turns the poor away.

Verse 3

His alms with lib'ral heart he gives Amongst the sons of need; His mem'ry to long ages lives And blessèd is his seed.

Verse 4

His lips abhor to talk profane, To slander or defraud; His ready tongue declares to men What he has learn'd of God.

Verse 5

The law and gospel of the Lord Deep in his heart abide; Led by the spirit and the word, His feet shall never slide.

Verse 6

When sinners fall, the righteous stand, Preserv'd from every snare; They shall possess the promis'd land And dwell for ever there.