When Joshua, by GOD's command

GIBEON by John Newton


 * When Joshua, by GOD's command,
 * Invaded Canaan's guilty land;
 * Gibeon, unlike the nations round,
 * Submission made and mercy found.


 * Their stubborn neighbors who enraged,
 * United war against them waged,
 * By Joshua soon were overthrown,
 * For Gibeon's cause was now his own.


 * He, from whose arm they ruin feared,
 * Their leader and ally appeared
 * An emblem of the Savior's grace,
 * To those who humbly seek his face.


 * The men of Gibeon wore disguise,
 * And gained their peace by framing lies;
 * For Joshua had no pow'r to spare,
 * If he had known from whence they were.


 * But JESUS invitations sends,
 * Treating with rebels as his friends;
 * And holds the promise forth in view,
 * To all who for his mercy sue.


 * Too long his goodness I disdained,
 * Yet went at last and peace obtained;
 * But soon the noise of war I heard,
 * And former friends in arms appeared.


 * Weak in myself for help I cried,
 * LORD, I am pressed on every side;
 * The cause is thine, they fight with me,
 * But every blow is aimed at thee.


 * With speed to my relief he came,
 * And put my enemies to shame;
 * Thus saved by grace I live to sing,
 * The love and triumphs of my King.