Poetry by Lindsay Morris

"A Covenant Prayer"

Put not our iniquities before Thy face,
Lest with fire consumed be our case
Forgive our sinful ways we've learned;
We're in a generation to be mourned.

Oh if you should come down in our midst,
Would you in mercy find us or wrath insist?
For we have not fully known your ways,
And need to learn to number our days.

Our hearts need wisdom on how to commune,
With godly fear and sobriety soon!
Prepare our footsteps lest we slip,
As we travel up Mount Sinai's tip.

In these days see us in prayer bent.
Preparing ourselves for Thy covenant.
Send us affliction and send us pain,
Purge away our dross and purge our stain.

For we need preparation to see Thy face,
To have a familiar bond with Thy infinite grace.
We need revelation before you enter our presence,
Lest we forget Thee and lose all godly sense.

Help us to search out our sin in this time,
To separate from it as it is a crime.
Lest we be found to be foolish and unwise.
Lest we be destroyed and taken by surprise.

For you've given direction and examples of old.
You've shown us your holiness in past stories told.
You've told us to study and show ourselves approved,
Lest you come visit and we soon be moved.

Oh how we desire Thy glory and fame,
And how we desire to know more of Thy name!
But first make us ready; hearts that are wise.
And help us be steady, lest your presence we despise.

And then at the time, when our hearts be circumsized;
And in truth can say that your Spirit we've prized,
Then come in our midst and make us your bride,
Lead us in mercy and not in your chide.

For we have no hope, except Thy mercy we plea,
We know we are unworthy, Thy glory to see.
Yet by Thy Spirit we press on in your will.
In great expectation, we continue to till.

Do incline Thine ear and hear our prayers,
Remove ungodly fears and besetting cares.
We need Thy help, Thy hand to direct;
Until you make us your holy sect.