Book III · Hymn 74 · Dependance

William Cowper

Dependance.
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,
Mt 26:33

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
Jn 6:29

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.