Brethren, why toil ye thus for toys

General information

This is an hymn by Joseph Hart, 1759, Hymn 112, entitled A General Admonition. Meter is 87. 87.

Settings by composers

• Amos Pilsbury — Hadley  English SATB

 

Text and translations

English text 1. Brethren, why toil ye thus for toys And reckon trash for treasure; Call gay deceptions solid joys, Intoxication pleasure? 2. If more refined amusements please, As knowledge, arts, or learning, A moment puts an end to these, And sometimes short's the warning. 3. What balm could wretches ever find In wit, to heal affliction? Or who can cure a troubled mind With all the pomp of diction? 3. Reflect, what trifles ye pursue, So anxious and so heedful; For after all (you'll find it true), There is but one thing needful.

5. God in his scriptures to reveal His will has condescended; Where there is said, he will fulfill, Though man may be offended. 6. This written word with reverence treat: Join prayer with each inspection; And be not wise in self-conceit: Tis folly to perfection. 7. True wisdom, of celestial birth, Can both instruct and cherish; Other attainments are of earth: And all that's earth's must perish.   8. The chief concern of fallen mankind Should be to gain God's favor; What safety can the sinner find, Before he find a Savior?

9.This Savior must be one that can From sin and death release us; Make up the breach 'twixt God and man, Which none can do, but Jesus. 10. Jesus is judge of quick and dead, And there is non beside him; Whether his power we flight or dread, Adore him, or deride him. 11. What-e'er we judge ourselves, we must Or stand, or fall by his doom; And they that in this Jesus trust, Have found eternal wisdom. 12. Mercy and love, from Jesus felt, Can heal a wounded spirit; Mercy, that triumphs over guilt, And love, that seeks no merit.

13. Then kiss the Son, for from his wrath No wisdom can deliver; Close in with Christ, by saving faith, And God's your friend forever.

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