p. 206 | Be Cheerful

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 24, 1864

Be Cheerful.

This world is not all cheerless, As some would have us think, Who ever are complaining, That they are on the brink Of some heart-rending sorrow, Some trial dark and dire; Their faith is melancholy, Instead of something higher.

The life of each has sunshine, Commingled with the shade, And he's the true Philosopher, Who never is afraid, That overwhelming torrents Of grief shall e'er arise, To overcome his courage, And take away his prize.

He sees in every trial, A Father's hand displayed, And hears his Saviour speaking, "It is I, be not afraid." Thus passes life serenely, Contented with his lot, Well knowing by his Father He never is forgot.

Then let us never cherish, A cold complaining tone, Nor ever feel within us That we are all alone. But to our work go, trusting, That if we sow the seed, The harvest shall be gathered, Though not perhaps with speed.

Perform the work with patience, And we've the promise left That of the fruits of labor, We ne'er shall be bereft. Our bread cast on the waters Will after many days, Return again to bless us, And our sad hearts will raise.