Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord,

Abide in him always, and feed on his word.

Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak;

Forgetting in nothing his blessing to seek.

 

Take time to be holy, the world rushes on;

Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone.

By looking to Jesus like him thou shalt be;

Thy friends in thy conduct, his likeness shall see.

 

Take time to be holy, let him by thy guide;

And run not before him whatever betide:

In joy or in sorrow still follow thy Lord.

And looking to Jesus, still trust in his word.

 

Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul;

Each thought and each temper beneath his control.

Thus led by his Spirit to fountains of love

Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

 

W.D. Longfellow (1822-94).