We must be merciful and kind

Verse 1

We must be merciful and kind, If we possess the Saviours mind; In enmity we dare not live, But freely pardon and forgive.

Verse 2

The soul with spite and wrath oppress'd Can ne'er attain to peace and rest! But slavish fear, and guilt and pain, Must ever on that heart remain.

Verse 3

Dare we a right to heaven claim, Though we profess the Christian name; Whilst we still lack the nobler part, The love of God to rule the heart.

Verse 4

To love our friends, and them alone, That would be net to loving none; To love a friend, but not a foe, Such love hath ev'ry Heathen too.

Verse 5

But O, it is a diff'rent case With those, who are the sons of grace! Not eye for eye, nor tooth for tooth, Say they, who love the word of truth.

Verse 6

What ill in other men I see, The very same I find in me; For when I search myself within, I find the best I do is sin.