When filthy passions or unjust Professors’ minds control; When men give up the reins to lust, And interest sways the whole; Or when they seek themselves to please, Decline each thorny road, Indulge their sloth, consult their ease, And slight the fear of God; The faith is vain such men profess; It comes not from above; The righteous man does righteousness, And true faith works by love. Men’s actions with their minds will suit; By them the heart is viewed; A tree that bears corrupted fruit, Cannot be callèd good. The Christian seeks his brother’s good, Sometimes beyond his own; Or, if self-interest will intrude, It does not reign alone. Help us, dear Lord, to honour thee; Let our good works abound; Thou art that green, that fruitful tree; From thee our fruit is found.
