Poem XIl. O that my ways were made so direct
Augustus Montague Toplady
O THAT my ways were made so strait,
And that the lamp of faith
Would, as a star, direct my feet
Within the narrow path!
O that thy strength might enter now,
And in my heart abide,
To make me as a faithful bow
That never starts aside!
O that I all to Christ were given,
(From sin and earth set free)
Who kindly laid aside his heaven,
And gave himself for me!
Not more the panting hart desires
The cool, refreshing stream
Than my dry, thirsty soul aspires
At being one with him.
Set up thine image in my heart;
Thy temple let me be,
Bid every idol now depart
That fain would rival thee.
Still keep me in the heavenly path;
Bestow the inward light;
And lead me by the hand till faith
Is ripened into sight.