Must all the charms of nature, then

Verse 1

Must all the charms of nature, then, So hopeless to salvation prove? Can hell demand, can heaven condemn, The man whom Jesus deigns to love?

Verse 2

The man who sought the ways of truth, Paid friends and neighbors all their due; A modest, sober, lovely youth, And thought he wanted nothing new?

Verse 3

But mark the change: thus spake the Lord, "Come, part with earth for heaven today," The youth, astonished at the word, In silent sadness went his way.

Verse 4

Poor virtues, that he boasted so, This test unable to endure, Let Christ, and grace, and glory go, To make his land and money sure!

Verse 5

Ah foolish choice of treasures here! Ah fatal love of tempting gold! Must this base world be bought so dear? Are life and heav'n so cheaply sold!

Verse 6

In vain the charms of nature shine, If this vile passion govern me; Transform my soul, O love divine! And make me part with all for thee.