1. God spake the word, and time began; He spake, and gave His law to man; His presence oft did Adam cheer, Who loved the voice of God to hear.
2. But soon the happy scene was changed, ANd they became from God estranged; They broke His law, and guilt and shame Their state of innocence o’ercame.
3. Impelled by fear, they vainly tried From God’s all-searching eyes to hide; His well-known voice by them was heard, And tremblingly they both appeared.
4. So men, from that eventful day. Far from their God have gone astray, Till near six thousand years have passed, And left a lifeless faith at last.
5. By faith the ancients sought the Lord, From time to time obtained His word: Not only they, but so may we, When faith and works do both agree.
6. From Adam to the present day, Have many sought a righteous way; And some have found the narrow road, And, Enoch-like, have walked with God.
7. God is unchangeable to save, Though men are changeful as the wave; While sinners take the downward road, The faith of man approaches God.
8. Experience and the word agree— Draw nigh to God, He’ll draw night thee; Then, are they wise who do deny The works of faith beneath the sky?