Classic Poem

Thou still the same for ever blest,
Whom mercies infinite invest,
In various constancy exprest!

Thou hast us with new sense indu'd
Of our old wants, nor scornst renew'd
Desires, in unchang'd words pursu'd.

Still let our fix'd Devotions joyne;
Our suits to thy firm will encline;
Our fervent Spirits move by thine.

For thou, in all perfection wise,
Nor novelty in prayer dost prize,
Nor pious constancy despise.

By thy command preferring neither,
Left in thy Churches pow'r together,
To use, but not disparage either.

Devotions moderately guide,
None injur'd, none just helps deny'd,
By others ignorance or pride.

Since Errours ever are unsure,
And by pretence of change allure;
Whilst truth in Union is secure:

Preserve thy Church, that no unfit
Orders (as various) she admit;
Nor Constancy, as formall, quit.

Lord, chase Hypocrisie away,
And then (we know) we safely may,
In setled forms, or praise, or pray.

Teach us what dwells within to mend,
And lesse we outwards need attend.
From bold blind zeal thy Church defend.