Love's Dear Command

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!

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October 7, 1933
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