Forest beasts, that live by prey, Seldom show themselves by day; But when day–light is withdrawn, Ps 104:20 Then they rove and roar till dawn. | Who can tell the traveller’s fears, When their horrid yells he hears? Terror almost stops his breath, While each step he looks for death. | Thus when Jesus is in view, Cheerful I my way pursue; Walking by my Savior’s light, Nothing can my soul affright. | But when he forbears to shine, Soon the travell’rs case is mine; Lost, benighted, struck with dread, What a painful path I tread! | Then, my soul with terror hears Worse than lions, wolves, or bears, Roaring loud in every part, Through the forest of my heart. | Wrath, impatience, envy, pride, Satan and his host beside, Press around me to devour; How can I escape their pow’r? | Gracious LORD afford me light, Put these beasts of prey to flight; Let thy pow’r and love be shown, Save me, for I am thine own. | |