Contempt of the World
Can ought below engross my thought
Or am I to the world confined
Nay, let my pure affections soar
To objects of a nobler kind
I know I'm but a pilgrim here
That seeks a better promised land
Then may I run and never tire
Till that celestial home's obtained
Resolved to tread the sacred way
That Jesus watered with His blood
I bend my fixed and cheerful course
Through that rough path my Master trod
Contemptuous of the world I live
A daily death rejoice to die
And while I move and walk below
My absent heart mounts up on high
O Light of life, still guide my steps
Without Thy friendly aid I stray
Lead me, my God, for I am blind
Direct me, and point out my way
Let the vain world applaud or frown
Still may I heaven's path pursue
Still may I stand unshook and keep
The center of my hopes in view
Though Satan, earth, and self oppose
Yet through Thy help I'll persevere
To Canaan's hills my eyes lift up
And choose my lot and portion there
Augustus Toplady
1740-1778
