Love constrained to Obedience

William Cowper (1731-1800)

6 Verses Freedom From Bondage Child Of God

Verse 1

No strength of nature can suffice To serve the Lord aright: And what she has she misapplies, For want of clearer light.

Verse 2

How long beneath the law I lay In bondage and distress; I toll'd the precept to obey, But toil'd without success.

Verse 3

Then, to abstain from outward sin Was more than I could do; Now, if I feel its power within, I feel I hate it too.

Verse 4

Then all my servile works were done A righteousness to raise; Now, freely chosen in the Son, I freely choose His ways.

Verse 5

" What shall I do," was then the word, " That I may worthier grow?" " What shall I render to the Lord?" Is my inquiry now.

Verse 6

To see the law by Christ fulfilled And hear His pardoning voice, Changes a slave into a child, And duty into choice.