p. 10 | THE BATTLE OF LIFE

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Jan 27, 1904

THE BATTLE OF LIFE.

Go FORTH to the battle of life, my boy, Go while it is called to-day; For the years go out, and the years come in, Regardless of those who may lose or win; Of those who may work or play.

There's a place for you in the ranks, my boy, And duty, too, assigned, Step into the front with a cheerful face, Be quick, or another may take your place, And you may be left behind.

There is work to be done by the way, my boy, That you never can tread again— Work for the loftiest, lowliest men— Work for the plow, plane, spindle, and pen— Work for the hands and the brain.

Temptation will wait by the way, my boy, Temptations without and within; And spirits of evil, with robes as fair As those which the angels in heaven wear, Will lure you to deadly sin.

Then put on the armor of God, my boy, In the beautiful days of youth; Put on the helmet and breastplate and shield, And the sword the feeblest hand may wield In the cause of right and truth.

And go to the battle of life, my boy, With the peace of the Gospel shod, And before high heaven do all you can For the great reward and the good of man, For the kingdom and crown of God. —Selected.