p. 1 | THE CHRISTIAN WARFARE

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 25, 1858

THE CHRISTIAN WARFARE

Selected for REVIEW.

THE CHRISTIAN WARFARE.

SOLDIER, go—but not to claim, Mouldering spoils of earth-born treasure, Not to build a lasting name, Not to dwell in tents of pleasure. Dream not that the way is smooth, Hope not that the thorns are roses; Turn no wishful 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 canst 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 thy weapons down, Quit the sword, and take the crown: Triumph, all thy foes are banished; Death is slain, and sin is vanished!