Methodist-Hymns-398
1: When Thy soldiers take their swords,
When they speak the solemn words,
When they kneel before Thee here,
Feeling Thee, their Father, near:
These Thy children, Lord, defend,
To their help Thy Spirit send.
2: When the world’s sharp strife is nigh,
When they hear the battle- cry,
When they rush into the fight,
Knowing not temptation’s might:
These Thy children, Lord, defend,
To their zeal Thy wisdom lend.
3: When their hearts are lifted high
With success or victory,
When they feel the conqueror’s pride-
Lest they grow self- satisfied-
These Thy children, Lord, defend,
Teach their souls to Thee to bend.
4: When the vows that they have made,
When the prayers that they have prayed,
Shall be fading from their hearts;
When their first warm faith departs:
These Thy children, Lord, defend,
Keep them faithful to the end. Amen.