The Heart Taken

I

The castle of the human heart,
Strong in its native sin,
Is guarded well in every part
By him who dwells within.

II

For Satan there in arms resides,
And calls the place his own⁠—
With care against assaults provides,
And rules as on a throne.

III

Each traitor thought on him, as chief,
In blind obedience waits;
And pride, self-will, and unbelief,
Are posted at the gates.

IV

Thus Satan for a season reigns,
And keeps his goods in peace;
The soul is pleased to wear his chains,
Nor wishes a release.

V

But Jesus, stronger far than he,
In his appointed hour
Appears, to set his people free
From the usurper’s power.

VI

“This heart I bought with blood,” he says,
“And now it shall be mine;”
His voice the strong one arm’d dismays⁠—
He knows he must resign.

VII

In spite of unbelief and pride,
And self, and Satan’s art,
The gates of brass fly open wide,
And Jesus wins the heart.

VIII

The rebel soul that once withstood
The Saviour’s kindest call,
Rejoices now, by grace subdued,
To serve him with her all.