Classic Poem

When justice, out of mercy's rod,
Thoughts, words, and actions tries,
How can a man be just with God,
Or pure before his eyes?

Once to contend, if God begins,
Vain shifts will have no sense;
Not one of all our thousand sins
Can bear a just defence.

He's wise in heart, and strong in might,
What arm can his repel;
Who can against him safely fight,
Or prosper that rebel?