XVIII. GOD insensibly withdrawn.

A Present GOD is all our Strength,
And all our Joy and Hope;
When he withdraws, our Comforts dye,
And every Grace must droop.

But flattering Trifles charm our Hearts
To court their false Embrace,
Till justly this neglected Friend
Averts his angry Face.

He leaves us, and we miss him not;
But go presumptuous on,
Till baffled, wounded, and enslav'd,
We learn, that GOD is gone.

And what, my Soul, can then remain
One Ray of Light to give?
Sever'd from him, their better Life,
How can his Children live?

Hence all ye painted Forms of Joy,
And leave my Heart to mourn!
I would devote these Eyes to Tears,
Till chear'd by his Return.

Look back, my Lord, and own the place,
Where once thy Temple stood;
For lo, its Ruins bear the mark
Of rich atoning Blood.