Verse 1

WHEN THY soldiers take their swords, When they speak the solemn words, When they kneel before Thee here, Feeling Thee, their Father, near: These Thy children, Lord, defend, To their help Thy Spirit send.

Verse 2

When the world’s sharp strife is nigh, When they hear the battle- cry, When they rush into the fight, Knowing not temptation’s might: These Thy children, Lord, defend, To their zeal Thy wisdom lend.

Verse 3

When their hearts are lifted high With success or victory, When they feel the conqueror’s pride- Lest they grow self- satisfied- These Thy children, Lord, defend, Teach their souls to Thee to bend.

Verse 4

When the vows that they have made, When the prayers that they have prayed, Shall be fading from their hearts; When their first warm faith departs: These Thy children, Lord, defend, Keep them faithful to the end. Amen.

Background: When Thy Soldiers Take Their Swords When