The Greatest Test
Help me to 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;
'Tis 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 failed to 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 the Lord's sake, to stand the test.
Barbara C. Ryberg