When Joshua, by GOD’s command, Invaded Canaan’s guilty land; Gibeon, unlike the nations round, Submission made and mercy found. | Their stubborn neighbors who enraged, United war against them waged, By Joshua soon were overthrown, For Gibeon’s cause was now his own. | He, from whose arm they ruin feared, Their leader and ally appeared An emblem of the Savior’s grace, To those who humbly seek his face. | The men of Gibeon wore disguise, And gained their peace by framing lies; For Joshua had no pow’r to spare, If he had known from whence they were. | But JESUS invitations sends, Treating with rebels as his friends; And holds the promise forth in view, To all who for his mercy sue. | Too long his goodness I disdained, Yet went at last and peace obtained; But soon the noise of war I heard, And former friends in arms appeared. | Weak in myself for help I cried, LORD, I am pressed on every side; The cause is thine, they fight with me, But every blow is aimed at thee. | With speed to my relief he came, And put my enemies to shame; Thus saved by grace I live to sing, The love and triumphs of my King. | |