The Backslider's Supplication

Verse 1

Jesus, Friend of sinners, hear Yet once again, I pray; From my debt of sin set clear, For I have naught to pay: Speak, O speak the kind release, A poor backsliding soul restore; Love me freely, seal my peace, And bid me sin no more.

Verse 2

For my selfishness and pride Thou hast withdrawn thy grace; Left me long to wander wide, An outcast from thy face; But I now my sins confess, And mercy, mercy, I implore; Love me freely, seal my peace, And bid me sin no more.

Verse 3

Sin's deceitfulness hath spread A hardness o'er my heart; But if thou thy Spirit shed, The stony shall depart: Shed thy love, thy tenderness, And let me feel thy softening power; Love me freely, seal my peace, And bid me sin no more.