When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.
Acts 11:23
Words: Elisha A. Hoffman (1839–1929).
Music: Popocatépetl H. C. Collins, in The Gospel Way, by Anthony J. Showalter et al. (Dalton, Georgia: A. J. Showalter, 1923), number 21 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know Collins’ full name, or where to get a good photo of him (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Temptation my soul may assail,
To woo me from Jesus away,
But cannot, it cannot prevail;
With Christ I’ve decided to stay.
Refrain
I promised that I would be true,
I would not my covenant break;
I care not what others may do,
My Jesus I will not forsake.
The world for my soul lays its snares,
And tempts me each ongoing day,
But strengthened by faith and by prayer,
With Christ I’ve decided to stay.
Refrain
Why should I forsake this dear Friend,
And out in the wilderness stray?
’Tis He doth each moment befriend,
With Christ I’ve decided to stay.
Refrain
No other so gracious could be,
And love me so greatly alway,
So kind and forgiving is He,
With Christ I’ve decided to stay.
Refrain