The Legion Dispossessed

Verse 1

Legion was my name, by nature Satan rag'd within my breast; Never misery was grater, Never sinner more possess'd: Mischievous to all around me, To myself the greatest foe; Thus I was when Jesus found me, Fill'd with madness, sin, and woe.

Verse 2

Yet in this forlorn condition When he came to set me free; I reply'd to my physician, "What have I to do with thee?" But he would not be prevented, Rescu'd me against my will; Had he staid 'till I consented, I had been a captive still.

Verse 3

"Satan, tho' thou fain would'st have it, Know this soul is none of thine; I have shed my blood to save it, Now I challenge it for mine; Tho' it long has thee resembled, Henceforth it shall me obey;" Thus he spoke, while Satan trembled, Gnash'd his teeth, and fled away.

Verse 4

Thus my frantic soul he healed, Bid my sins and sorrows cease; "Take (said he) my pardon sealed, I have sav'd thee, go in peace: Rather take me, Lord to heaven, Now thy love and grace I know; Since thou hast my sins forgiven, Why should I remain below.

Verse 5

"Love (he said) will sweeten labours, Thou hast something yet to do: Go and tell your friends and neighbours, What my love has done for you: Live to manifest my glory; Wait for heav'n a little space: Sinners, when they hear thy story, Will repent and seek my face."