Poem October 7, 1933 Issue

Love's Dear Command

KATHERINE ENGLISH

When clouds of dark discouragement and dread
Hang heavy round the path that I must tread,
When speeds the arrow at the break of day,
Or creeps the pestilence beside my way,
Comes to my listening heart Love's dear command:
Thou shalt not be afraid!

Though angry hosts encamp on every side,
Love's hidden, rock-built fortress opens wide
By morning, noon, or night—my refuge sure,
My habitation high, my rest secure—
Do I but turn to heed Love's dear command:
Thou shalt not be afraid!

If hatred strikes, no evil shall befall;
Since Love doth shield, no terror can appall.
His angels charge o'er every footstep keep;
They guide and guard me as I wake or sleep,
Their secret tones repeat Love's dear command:
Thou shalt not be afraid!

That Love shall set me free from every snare
And fill me with the joy of answered prayer;
His tender loving-kindness give me light
To see the path before me shining bright.
How can I fail to keep His dear command?
I will not be afraid!

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

Love's Dear Command

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access