His mercy is forever sure,
His justice too must stand,
And people must obedient be
To what He does command.

So when the world so wicked proved,
And wander'd from the Lord,
And with most stubborn hearts refused
To hear His sovereign word;--

He bore with patience long and kind,
Their steady wickedness;
But did at last withdraw His grace,
And leave them in distress.

He gave them up to their own hearts,
To work their own desire;
He threatened them with judgment vast,
And kindled was His ire.

"My spirit shall not always strive"--
Jehovah sternly said--
A Flood I'll bring which will destroy
All things that I have made.

"Why should they live in guilt and wo,
And all my words despise;
Their every work, and every thought,
Is loathsome to my eyes."