O What a stiff rebellious house

Verse 1

Oh what a stiff rebellious house Was Jacob’s ancient race! False to their own most solemn vows, And to their Maker’s grace.

Verse 2

They broke the cov'nant of his love, And did his laws despise; Forgot the works he wrought to prove His pow'r before their eyes.

Verse 3

They saw the plagues on Egypt light From his avenging hand; What dreadful tokens of his might Spread o’er the stubborn land.

Verse 4

They saw him cleave the mighty sea, And march'd in safety through, With wat'ry walls to guard their way, 'Till they had ’scap'd the foe.

Verse 5

A wond'rous pillar marked the road, Compos'd of shade and light; By day it proved a shelt'ring cloud, A leading fire by night.

Verse 6

He from the rock their thirst suppli'd; The gushing waters flow'd, And ran in rivers by their side, Alone the desert road.

Verse 7

Yet they provok'd the Lord most high, And dar'd distrust his hand: "Can he with bread our host supply, Amidst this desert land?"

Verse 8

The Lord with indignation heard, And caus'd his wrath to flame; His terrors ever stand prepar'd To vindicate his name.