1 Oh, rest a while, but only for a while;
Life’s business presses, and the time is short:
Ease may the weary of reward beguile;
Let not the workman lose what he has wrought.

2 Rest for a while, if only for a while.
The strong birds tire, and gladly seek their nest:
With quiet heart enjoy Heaven’s quiet smile;
What strength has he who never takes his rest?

3 Rest for a while, though ’tis but for a while;
Home flies the bee, then soon re-quits the hive:
Rest on thy staff, walk then another mile;
Soon will the long, the final rest arrive.

4 Oh, rest awhile, for rest is self-return;
Leave the loud world, and visit thine own breast;
The meaning of thy labors thou wilt learn,
When thus at peace, with Jesus for thy guest.