1 Let all the heathen writers join
To form one perfect book;
Great God! if once compared with Thine,
How mean their writings look!

2 Not the most perfect rules they gave
Could show one sin forgiv’n,
Nor lead a step beyond the grave;
But Thine conduct to Heav’n.

3 I’ve seen an end to what we call
Perfection here below;
How short the powers of nature fall,
And can no further go!

4 Yet men would fain be just with God
By works their hands have wrought;
But Thy commands, exceeding broad,
Extend to every thought.

5 In vain we boast perfection here,
While sin defiles our frame,
And sinks our virtues down so far,
They scarce deserve the name.

6 Our faith and love, and every grace
Fall far below Thy Word;
But perfect truth and righteousness
Dwell only with the Lord.