ADVERSE FORTUNE by Mrs. R. Smith

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Aug 7, 1856

ADVERSE FORTUNE.

By Mrs. R. Smith

WHAT though my lot has been to bear, Much adverse fate, 'mid toil and care, Raised expectations crushed and dead, And hope's triumphant visions fled.

If I can feel a mightier power, A hand divine, in this dark hour; If but my heart is made to feel The claims of him who wounds to heal.

As purest gold, and clearest glass Must through the hottest furnace pass; So oft repeated strokes are given To mould and fit a soul for heaven.

God knows what most his children need, From sin and folly to be freed; And oft the ties by which they're bound, He severs by the heart-felt wound.

Though rough, unyielding, he'll not spare, Till he reflects his image there; And though severe the process be, 'T will fit us for eternity.

The gold refined, Heaven's image traced, Be it no more by sin defaced, A life of holiness maintain, And soon with Christ in glory reign. MRS. R. SMITH. Wilton, N. H.