John Newton 8,6,8,6 MOSES and AMALEK February 27, 1778. While Joshua led the armed bands. Of Israel forth to war; Moses apart with lifted hands Engaged in humble prayer. The armed bands had quickly failed, And perished in the fight; If Moses' prayer had not prevailed To put the foes to flight. When Moses' hands through weakness dropped, The warriors fainted too; Israel's success at once was stopped, And Am'lek bolder grew. A people, always prone to boast, Were taught by this suspense, That not a num'rous armed host, But God was their defence. We now of fleets and armies vaunt, And ships and men prepare; But men like Moses most we want, To save the state by prayer. Yet, Lord, we hope thou hast prepared A hidden few today; (The nation's secret strength and guard) To weep, and mourn, and pray. O hear their prayers and grant us aid, Bid war and discord cease; Heal the sad breach which sin has made, And bless us all with peace. |