Here is the spring where waters flow, To quench our heat of sin; Here is the tree where truth doth grow To lead our lives therein; Here is the judge that stints4343stints, stays the strife When men's devises fail: Here is the bread that feeds the life Which death cannot assail. The tidings of salvation dear Comes to our ears from hence; The fortress of our faith is here; The shield of our defence. Then be not like the hog that hath A pearl at his desire, 13 And takes more pleasure in the trough And wallowing in the mire. Read not this book in any case But with a single eye: Read not, but first desire GOD's grace, To understand thereby. Pray still in faith with this respect To fructify therein; That knowledge may bring this effect, To mortify thy sin. Then happy thou in all thy life, Whatso to thee befalls; Yea, doubly happy shalt thou be When GOD by death thee calls. |