Classic Poem

1

Thus far in generall
About Afflictions,
Wherewith the Lord will exercise
All whom he owns for sons.
Now of particular Ailes
And Exercises great
(Such as most commonly befall)
We purpose to entreat.

2

The Spirit of a man
Will many Griefs sustain:
But who can bear a wounded Sp'rit?
This is the greatest pain.
First then for Spiritual Griefs,
Temptations, and distresses,
Wherewith the Devil keepeth down
And some good Souls depresses.

3

There is a child of Darkness
That walketh in the light,
That thinks his ill state very good
And therein takes delight
There is a child of Light
Whose state is very good,
Yet walks in sadness, in the night,
Till this be understood.

4

Thick Clouds sometimes arise
And darken the noon-day:
A Mist may blind Believers eyes,
They cannot see their way;
Although they walk in light,
Satan so undermines
Their Comfort, that they see no Light
Which round about them shines.

5

Sometimes they doubtful are
Concerning their estates:
Sometimes conclude against themselves
That they are Reprobates.
Such things may Saints befall;
Yet are they never left
Of God, nor of his awful fear
Are utterly bereft.

6

They dare not wickedly
Away from God depart,
But after his sweet presence mourn,
And seek him with their Heart.
Such bruised trembling Reeds
Christ will in no wise break:
But in the most accepted time
Will comfort to them speak.

7

He will into a flame
Blow up their little spark,
And make his face on them to shine
That now are in the dark.
For he will not cast off,
Nor evermore forsake
Those that relie on him for grace,
And him their portion make.

8

Come, poor distressed Souls,
And hear your Grievances:
Learn how you may with Spiritual Arms
Temptations force repress.
Hear what the Flesh suggests
For your discouragement:
Learn what the Spirit may reply
Soul-sinkings to prevent.