1 Why should the dread of sinful man
Ensnare and vex my soul?
O for that fortitude which can
My every fear control.

2 Shall I offend a holy God,
And sacrifice my peace,
To shun a mortal’s threatening rod;
A friend or two to please?

3 Hard is the task, I must confess,
Where duty thus confines;
Nor can my soul escape distress
Though she to God inclines.

4 Fain would I please both friends and foes,
And follow peace with all,
Nor to one frown myself expose,
But where ’tis duty’s call.

5 I must obey the God I love,
Though all the world contemns;
One smile from Him I prize above
The richest earthly gems.

6 Hark, O my soul, methinks I hear
Jehovah’s awful voice—
“Fear not, thou worm, for I am near,
I will defend thy choice.

7 "While mortal men revile and frown,
I’ll smile upon thy soul;
And thou shalt tread the Tempter down,
While I his rage control.

8 "Trust thou in My almighty name,
Nor let thy faith be weak;
Thy soul shall ne’er be put to shame
Whilst thou My glory seek."

9 Lord, I resign me to Thy will,
Thy wisdom I adore!
I yield to Thee—Thy word fulfill,
And let me doubt no more.