For the poor

William Cowper · 1779

Catalog grade guidance: 3–5 — Olney hymn for school recitation; preview archaic diction.

27 content lines · 135 words · Est. recitation about 1 min 40 sec (approx.)

Public-domain text for reading and recitation practice. Source: Christian Classics Ethereal Library (Olney Hymns, 1779).Estimated time uses ~120 words/minute plus short pauses—not a contest rule.

Hymn 57

William Cowper

8,6,8,6

For the poor.

When Hagar found the bottle spent,
Gen 21:19

And wept o'er Ishmael;

A message from the Lord was sent

To guide her to a well.

Should not Elijah's cake and cruse,
1Ki 17:14

Convince us at this day,

A gracious God will not refuse,

Provisions by the way?

His saints and servants shall be fed,

The promise is secure;

"Bread shall be given them, he has said,

Their water shall be sure."
Isa 33:16

Repasts far richer they shall prove

Than all earth's dainties are;

'Tis sweet to taste a Savior's love,

Though in the meanest fare.

To JESUS then your trouble bring,

Nor murmur at your lot;

While you art poor, and he is King,

You shall not be forgot.