Lot in Sodom

Melody -

John Newton, 1779, from Olney Hymns, vol., 1, hymn 5

How hurtful was the choice of Lot,
Who took up his abode
Because it was a fruitful spot
With them who feared not God!

2. A pris'ner he was quickly made,
Bereaved of all his store;
And, but for Abraham's timely aid,
He had returned no more.

3. Yet still he seemed resolved to stay
As if it were his rest;
Although their sins from day to day
His righteous soul distressed.

4. Awhile he stayed with anxious mind,
Exposed to scorn and strife;
At last he left his all behind,
And fled to save his life.

5. In vain his sons-in-law he warned,
They thought he told his dreams;
His daughters too, of them had learned,
And perished in the flames.

6. His wife escaped a little way,
But died for looking back:
Does not her case to pilgrims say,
Beware of growing slack?

7. Yea; Lot himself could ling'ring stand,
Though vengeance was in view;
'Twas mercy plucked him by the hand,
Or he had perished too.

8. The doom of Sodom wilt be ours
If to the earth we cleave;
Lord quicken all our drowsy pow'rs,
To flee to thee and live.

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