nella's journeys

The Father's Exhortation to His Children

Ye are the temples of the Lord,
for ye are dearly bought;
and they that do defile the same,
shall surely come to nought.

Possess not proud in any wise,
build not your house too high,
but have always before your eyes,
that ye be born to die.

Defraud not him that hired is,
your labor to sustain;
but give him always out of hand,
his penny for his pain.

And as you would that other men
against you should proceed,
do you the same to them again,
when they do stand in need.

And part your portion with the poor,
in money or in meat;
and feed the fainted feeble soul,
with that which ye should eat.

Ask counsel always at the wise,
give ear unto the end;
refuse not you the sweet rebuke
of him that is your friend.

Be thankful always to the Lord,
with prayer and with praise,
Desiring him in all your works
for to direct your ways.

- a poem by Robert Smith