Integrity is worth far more than money;
Great are the joys that fill the suff’ring soul;
The devil’s words, though seeming sweet as honey,
In truth are poison, and as black as coal.

This life is filled with sorrow and with crosses,
Which sometimes feel the heaviest of wood;
But there is gain for each of all our losses,
Though there is pain in trying to be good.

But try we must, although the world should hate us,
Remembering we work for a reward;
It matters not if foes or friends berate us;
Our calling is for ever with our Lord.

Do not give up, though strenuous the climbing;
Do not give in to sadness or to fear;
Remember God is perfect in His timing,
However long an hour or short a year.

Live as you preach, do as you would be done by;
Above all else, O do not be afraid;
And when the measure of your life has run by,
In glory eternal you shall be arrayed.

(David Mitchell, Sunday, 10th September, 2023.)