128 (XCIII.--"Ringe recht wenn Gottes Gnade.")
128.
Original Tune.
Ringe recht wenn Gottes Gnade
Winkler, 1703
| Strive aright when God doth call thee, When he draws the by His grace, Cast off all that would enthrall thee, And deter thee from the race. | | Wrestle, till thy zeal is burning And thy love is glowing warm, All that earth can give thee spurning;-- Half love will not bide the storm. | | Combat, though thy life thou givest, Storm the kingdom, but prevail; Let not him with whom thou strivest Ever make thee faint or quail. | | Perfect truth will never waver, Wars with evil day and night, Changes not for fear or favour, Only cares to win the fight. | | Perfect truth will love to follow Watchfully our Master's ways; Seeks not comfort poor and hollow, Looks not for reward or praise. | | Perfect truth from worldly pleaaure, Worldly turmoil, stands apart; For in heaven is hid our treasure, There must also be the heart. | | Soldiers of the Cross, take courage! Watch and war 'mid fear and pain; Daily conquering sin and sorrow, Till our King o'er earth shall reign. | |