The Poetry Corner

Ephraim Repenting. - Jeremiah xxxi.18-20.

By William Cowper

My God, till I received thy stroke, How like a beast was I! So unaccustomd to the yoke, So backward to comply. With grief my just reproach I bear, Shame fills me at the thought; How frequent my rebellions were! What wickedness I wrought! Thy merciful restraint I scornd, And left the pleasant road; Yet turn me, and I shall be turnd, Thou art the Lord my God. Is Ephraim banishd from my thoughts, Or vile in my esteem? No, saith the Lord, with all his faults, I still remember him. Is he a dear and pleasant child? Yes, dear and pleasant still; Though sin his foolish heart beguiled, And he withstood my will. My sharp rebuke has laid him low, He seeks my face again; My pity kindles at his woe, He shall not seek in vain.