The impious atheist, in his folly proud

Verse 1

The impious atheist, in his folly proud, At one all-powerful being laughs aloud. Corrupt they're all; from virtue's path they turn, And in the quenchless fires of lust they burn; Their shocking crimes, their curst impieties, Demand tremendous vengeance from the skies.

Verse 2

Th' All-high looks down from his etherial throne, To see, if man his sov'reign pow'r will own; If yet the sons of earth accept his sway, His name revere, and his dread will obey.

Verse 3

Ah no! not one--they 'gainst their God conspire, Pursue the dictates of each wild desire, In filthy scenes their precious hours employ, And make their shocking crimes their horrid joy.

Verse 4

Does then rank frenzy o'er the wicked reign, That they such hideous blasphemy maintain, That they my people, as their prey, devour, And, obstinate, reject almighty pow'r?

Verse 5

But still their wretched hearts shall make with fear, For, where the righteous are, God's always near, The refuge of the just he'll constant prove; The humble soul is sure to have his love;

Verse 6

And, while, ye wicked, you her hopes deride, Falls direful vengeance on your impious pride.

Verse 7

From Sion's hill, O that the Lord wou'd send His speedy aid, and Jacob's sons defend; Wou'd his own people from their bondage free, And give them back their long'd-for liberty; Then shou'd the race of Israel shout for joy, And their glad tongues in grateful hymns employ.