Temptation in the Wilderness

Verse 1

For forty mystic days, Unknown to man their length, Thy foe, the foe of God with man, Exerted all his strength.

Verse 2

No finite mind can tell, The conflicts of those hours: Nor ought but infinite conceive Of Satan's wily pow'rs.

Verse 3

Was it to wreathe thy brow With vict'ry's bright'ning wreath? To give thyself a royal crown That thus thou fought'st with death?

Verse 4

No—surely no—For man The combat was begun— For man 'twas finish'd—'tis complete— for man the battle's won.

Verse 5

Eternal praise await, Thy glorious, blessed name; Thou Captain of Salvation's hosts, All suff'ring, conqu'ring Lamb.