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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


OLNEY HYMNS: 53. FOR THE POOR by WILLIAM COWPER

Poet Analysis

First Line: WHEN HAGAR FOUND THE BOTTLE SPENT
Last Line: YOU SHALL NOT BE FORGOT.
Subject(s): POVERTY;

WHEN Hagar found the bottle spent,
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
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," as he said,
"Their water shall be sure."

Repasts far richer they shall prove,
Than all earth's dainties are;
'Tis sweet to taste a Saviour's love,
Though in the meanest fare.

To Jesus then your trouble bring,
Nor murmur at your lot;
While you are poor and He is King,
You shall not be forgot.



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