To keep the lamp alive,
With oil we fill the bowl;
'Tis water makes the willow thrive,
And grace that feeds the soul.
The Lord's unsparing hand
Supplies the living stream;
It is not at our own command,
But still derived from him.
Beware of Peter's word,[1]
Nor confidently say,
'I never will deny thee, Lord,'
But, 'Grant I never may!'
Man's wisdom is to seek
His strength in God alone;
And e'en an angel would be weak,
Who trusted in his own.
Retreat beneath his wings,
And in his grace confide;
This more exalts the King of kings[2]
Than all your works beside.
In Jesus is our store,
Grace issues from his throne;
Whoever says, 'I want no more,'
Confesses he has none.