The Loadstone

I

As needles point towards the pole
When touch’d by the magnetic stone;
So faith in Jesus gives the soul
A tendency before unknown.

II

Till then, by blinded passions led,
In search of fancied good we range,
The paths of disappointment tread,
To nothing fix’d but love of change.

III

But when the Holy Ghost imparts
A knowledge of the Saviour’s love,
Our wand’ring, weary, restless hearts
Are fix’d at once, no more to move.

IV

Now a new principle takes place,
Which guides and animates the will;
This love, another name for grace,
Constrains to good, and bars from ill.

V

By love’s pure light we soon perceive
Our noblest bliss and proper end;
And gladly every idol leave,
To love and serve our Lord and Friend,

VI

Thus, borne along by faith and hope,
We feel the Saviour’s words are true;
“And I, if I be lifted up,
Will draw the sinner upward too.”