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Schwing dich auf zu deinern Gott.--(Goed. 135.)

Appeared in Crü.--Runge, 1653, no.*288, under the title "Trost in schwerer Anfechtung."

56

The only English version of this fervent hymn of consolation in despondency and temptation is that of J. Kelly, 1867, p. 195. Nearly every line has the force and directness of the original especially in the verses addressed to the Soul, charging it to defy the wiles of Satan and to seek strength and consolation in Nature's bounties. Gerhardt's poem is one of close introspection and self analysis, and the translator interprets with feeling its spirit of "Trost."

IN DESPONDENCY AND TEMPTATION.
Stanza 1. Look up to thy God again,
Soul, sunk in affliction!
Shall He be reproach'd by men
Through thy sore dejection?
Satan's wiles dost thou not see?
By severe temptation,
Gladly would he keep from thee
Jesu's consolation.
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