The Greatest Test

A bonus post today, written by another poet, this is a favorite poem of Mrs. Nickel's, which she often quoted in family concerts. It was published with permission in "Sing and Give Thanks" as #12b.

The Greatest Test
by Barbara Ryberg

Lord, help me walk so close to Thee
That those who know me best can see
I live as godly as I pray
And Christ is real from day to day.

I see some once a day or year;
To them I blameless might appear.
It’s easy to be kind and sweet
To people whom we seldom meet.

But in my home are those who see
Too many times the worst of me.
My hymns of praise were best unsung
If He does not control my tongue.

When I am vexed and sorely tried
And my impatience cannot hide,
May no one stumble over me
Because Thy love they cannot see.

But give me, Lord, a life that sings
And victory over little things;
Give me thy calm for every fear,
Thy peace for every falling tear.

Make mine, O Lord, through calm and strife,
A gracious and unselfish life.
Help me with those who know me best,
For Jesus’ sake, to stand the test.



Picture: depositphotos.com #43252573, standard license