For a Garden-Seat or Summer-House

I

A shelter, from the rain or wind,
A shade from scorching heat,
A resting-place you here may find,
To ease your weary feet,

II

Enter, but with a serious thought,
Consider who is near!
This is a consecrated spot⁠—
The Lord is present here!

III

A question of the utmost weight,
While reading, meets your eye;
May conscience witness to your state,
And give a true reply!

IV

Is Jesus to your heart reveal’d
As full of truth and grace?
And is his name your hope and shield,
Your rest and hiding-place?

V

If so, for all events prepared,
Whatever storms may rise,
He whom you love will safely guard,
And guide you to the skies.

VI

No burning sun or storm or rain
Will there your peace annoy;
No sin, temptation, grief, or pain,
Intrude to damp your joy.

VII

But if his name you have not known,
Oh, seek him while you may!
Lest you should meet his awful frown
In that approaching day.

VIII

When the avenging Judge you see
With terrors on his brow,
Where can you hide, or whither flee,
If you reject him now?