Since godly men decay, O Lord

Verse 1

Since godly men decay, O Lord, do thou my cause defend; For scarce these wretched times afford one just and faithful friend.

Verse 2

One neighbour now can scarce believe what t'other does impart; With flatt'ring lips they all deceive, and with a double heart.

Verse 3

But lips that with deceit abound, can never prosper long; God's righteous vengeance will confound the proud blaspheming tongue.

Verse 4

In vain those foolish boasters say, "our tongues are, sure, our own; "With doubtful Words we'll still betray, "and be controul'd by none."

Verse 5

For God, who hears the suff'ring poor, and their oppression knows, Will soon arise and give them rest, in spite of all their foes.

Verse 6

The word of God shall still abide, and void of falshood be, As is the silver, sev'n times try'd, from drossy mixture free.

Verse 7

The promise of his aiding grace shall reach its purpos'd end: His servants from this faithless race he ever shall defend.

Verse 8

Then shall the wicked be perplex'd, nor know which way to fly; When those whom they despis'd and vex'd, shall be advanc'd on high.