PRAYER - BECAUSE I HAVE THE TENDENCY

Because I have the tendency to grow
In my own way, as I desire to be,
Despite God’s thought of making willing, O
Lord, bend me to thy will, to grow towards Thee.

Because a singing saw creates discord
In hands that are enfeebled or unskilled,
Taking me in firm skilful hands, O Lord,
Bend me, so that a pure note is distilled.

First, fill a tube with sand; then block each end;
Red-heat the cooper; curve it manually.
Thus in your skill and rigour, O Lord, bend
Me till the waters flow effectually.

Bound to thy treadle, like a pole-lathe’s tree,
O bend, O bend, O bend, O Lord, bend me.