The Poetry Corner

My Soul Thirsteth For God.

By William Cowper

I thirst, but not as once I did, The vain delights of earth to share; Thy wounds, Emmanuel, all forbid That I should seek my pleasures there. It was the sight of thy dear cross First weand my soul from earthly things; And taught me to esteem as dross The mirth of fools and pomp of kings. I want that grace that springs from thee, That quickens all things where it flows, And makes a wretched thorn like me Bloom as the myrtle or the rose. Dear fountain of delight unknown! No longer sink below the brim; But over flow, and pour me down A living and life-giving stream! For sure, of all the plants that share The notice of thy Fathers eye, None proves less grateful to his care, Or yields him meaner fruit than I.