CHRISTIAN WARFARE by Charlotte Elizabeth Tonna

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Nov 18, 1889

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 15, No. 44.

CHRISTIAN WARFARE.

By Charlotte Elizabeth Tonna

SOLDIER, go—but not to claim Modering spoils of earth-born treasure; Not to build a vaunting name, Not to dwell in tents of pleasure. Dream not that the way is smooth, Hope not that the thorns are roses; Turn no wistful eye of youth, Where the sunny beam reposes. Thou hast sterner work to do, Hosts to cut thy passage through; Close behind thee gulfs are burning— Forward! there is no returning.

Soldier, rest—but not for thee Spreads the world her downy pillow; On the rock thy couch must be, While around thee chafes the billow; Thine must be a watchful sleep, Wearier than another’s waking; Such a charge as thou dost keep, Brooks no moment of forsaking. Sleep, as on the battle-field, Girded—grasping sword and shield; Foes thou can'st not name or number, Steal upon thy broken slumber.

Soldier, rise—the war is done; Lo! the hosts of hell are flying; 'Twas thy Lord the battle won; Jesus vanquished them by dying. Pass the stream—before thee lies All the conquered land of glory. Hark! what songs of rapture rise! These proclaim the victor’s story. Soldier, lay the weapons down, Quit the sword and take the crown. Triumph! all thy foes are banished, Death is slain, and earth has vanished. —Charlotte Elizabeth Tonna.