Chapter XXIV: Ragged Girl’s Hymn

The Sabbath sun has risen high,
And sweetly sounds the Sabbath bell,
My basket now untouched must lie,
This day I neither buy nor sell.
The Sabbath rest I will not break,
But God’s commands my study make,
And trust the word
Of my dear Lord,
“I will not leave thee, nor forsake.”

But I am poor, with none to aid,
And Satan sore is tempting me,
“If thou give up the Sabbath trade,
The Sabbath meal is not for thee.”
My God, oh, let me never break
The least command that Thou didst make,
But trust the word
Of my dear Lord,
“I will not leave thee, nor forsake.”

When Christ was faint with hunger’s pain,
The Tempter urged God’s blessed Son
In way unmeet relief to gain;
But steadfast stood the Holy One,
His perfect faith no doubt could shake,
The least command He would not break,
He knew the love
Of God above,
Would never leave Him, nor forsake.

Now, high in heaven, He hears and grants
The prayers of those in faith who pray;
My earthly cares, my earthly wants,
O Saviour, at Thy feet I lay:
Supply Thy servant’s need, and make
Her soul of heavenly food partake,
For still, O Lord,
I trust Thy word,
“I’ll never leave thee, nor forsake.”