IX.
The Christian's Confidence.
Probably by Joachim Magdeburg, a Pastor who died in 1560--long a favourite Hymn at death-beds; said to be found in a stained glass window in Nordhausen with the date 1592, printed at latest 1598.
8,7,8,7
Wer Gott vertraut hat wohl gebaut
Who puts his trust in God most just Hath built his house securely; He who relies on Jesus Christ, Shall reach His heaven most surely: Then fix'd on Thee my trust shall be, For Thy truth cannot alter; While mine Thou art, not death's worst smart Shall make my courage falter. | 193 Though fiercest foes my course oppose, A dauntless front I'll show them; My champion Thou, Lord Christ, art now, Who soon shalt overthrow them! And if but Thee I have in me With Thy good gifts and Spirit, Nor death nor hell, I know full well, Shall hurt me, through Thy merit. | I rest me here without a fear, By Thee shall all be given That I can need, O Friend indeed, For this life or for heaven. O make me true, my heart renew, My soul and flesh deliver! Lord, hear my prayer, and in Thy care Keep me in peace for ever. | |