The Paradox.

How strange is the course the Christian must steer!
How perplexed is the path he must tread!
The hope of his happiness rises from fear,
And his life he receives from the Dead.

His fairest pretentions must wholly be waived,
And his best resolutions be crossed;
Nor can he expect to be perfectly saved
Till he finds himself utterly lost.

When all this is done, and his conscience secured
Of the total remission of sins;
When his pardon is signed, and his peace is procured,
From that moment the conflict begins.