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THE REST OF FAITH

“Since the Father’s arm sustains thee,
Peaceful be.
When a chastening hand restrains thee,
It is he.
Know his love in full completeness
Fills the measure of thy weakness;
If he wounds thy spirit sore,
Trust him more.

“Without measure, uncomplaining,
In his hand
Lay whatever things thou canst not
Understand;
Though the world thy folly spurneth,
From thy faith in pity turneth,
Peace thy inmost soul shall fill,
Lying still.

“Like an infant, if thou thinkest
Thou canst stand,
Child-like, proudly pushing back
The proffered hand,
Courage soon is changed to fear,
Strength doth feebleness appear;
In his love if thou abide,
He will guide.

“Fearest sometimes that thy Father
Hath forgot?
When the clouds around thee gather,
Doubt him not.
Always hath the daylight broken,
Always hath he comfort spoken;
Better hath he been for years
Than thy fears.

“Therefore, whatso’er betideth,
Night or day,
Know his love for thee provideth
Good alway.
Crown of sorrow gladly take,
Grateful wear it for his sake,
Sweetly bending to his will,
Lying still.

“To his own thy Savior giveth
Daily strength;
To each troubled soul that liveth,
Peace at length;
Weakest lambs have largest share
Of this tender Shepherd’s care;
Ask him not, then, ‘When?’ or ‘How?’
Only bow!”

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— August, 1889 —