Peter's Fall and Recovery

Verse 1

How did the powers of darkness rage Against the son of God! While cruel men on earth engage To shed his precious blood.

Verse 2

His friends forsook him with surprise, When that dread scene began; And one perfidiously denies He ever knew the man.

Verse 3

How feeble human efforts prove Against temptation's power! E'en Peter's flaming zeal and love Are vanquish'd in an hour.

Verse 4

His firmest purpose will not stand Behold his guilt and shame! Lord, keep me by thy mighty hand, Or I shall do the same.

Verse 5

At length the suffering Savior turns, And looks with pitying eyes; Peter relents, withdraws and mourns, And loud for mercy cries.

Verse 6

So boundless is Jehovah's grace, He hears the humble prayer; If I am found in Peter's case, I would not still dispair.

Verse 7

Look on me, Lord, with eyes of love, My wandering soul restore; My guilt forgive, my fears remove, And let me sin no more.