L.M. For the Head of a Household. 1 MASTER supreme, I look to thee For grace and wisdom from above; Vested with thy authority, Endue me with thy patient love;
2 That, taught according to thy will To rule my family aright, I may the appointed charge fulfil, With all my heart, and all my might.
3 Inferiors as a sacred trust I from the sovereign Lord receive, That what is suitable and just Impartial I to all may give:
4 O'erlook them with a guardian eye; From vice and wickedness restrain; Mistakes and lesser faults pass by, And govern with a looser rein.
5 The servant faithfully discreet, Gentle to him, and good, and mild, Him would I tenderly entreat, And scarce distinguish from a child.
6 Yet let me not my place forsake, The occasion of his stumbling prove, The servant to my bosom take, Or mar him by familiar love.
7 Order if some invert, confound, Their Lord's authority betray, I hearken to the gospel sound, And trace the providential way.
8 As far from abjectness as pride, With condescending dignity, Jesus, I make thy word my guide, And keep the post assigned by thee.
9 O could I emulate the zeal Thou dost to thy poor servants hear! The troubles, griefs, and burdens feel Of souls entrusted to my care:
10 In daily prayer to God commend The souls whom Jesus died to save; And think how soon my sway may end, And all be equal in the grave!
