A Thought on Hell

Terrible thought! shall I alone,
Who may be saved — shall I —
Of all, alas! whom I have known,
Through sin, for ever die?

While all my old companions dear,
With whom I once did live,
Joyful at God's right hand appear,
A blessing to receive;

Shall I, — amidst a ghastly band, —
Dragg'd to the judgment-seat.
Far on the left with horror stand,
My fearful doom to meet?

Abandon'd to extreme despair.
Eternally undone;
My Father would not own me there,
His hell-devoted son.

Dissolved are nature's closest ties.
And bosom-friends forgot;
When God, the just Avenger, cries,
"Depart, I know you not."

But must I from His glorious face,
From all His saints retire?
But must I go to my own place
In everlasting fire?

While they enjoy His heavenly love,
Must I in torments dwell?
And howl, (while they sing hymns above,)
And blow the flames of hell?

Ah, no: — I still may turn and live,
For still His wrath delays;
He now vouchsafes a kind reprieve,
And offers me His grace.

I will accept His offers now.
From every sin depart.
Perform my oft-repeated vow.
And render Him my heart.
lo I will improve what I receive,
The grace through Jesus given;
Sure, if with God on earth I live.

live with God in heaven.