Peter Released From Prison

Fervent persevering prayers Are faith's assured resource, Brazen gates, and iron bars, In vain withstand their force: Peter when in prison cast, Though by soldiers kept with care; Though the doors were bolted fast, Was soon released by prayer. While he slept an angel came And spread a light around; Touched, and called him by his name, And raised him from the ground: All his chains and fetters burst, Every door wide open flew; Peter thought he dreamed, at first, But found the vision true. Thus the Lord can make a way To bring his saints relief; 'Tis their part, to wait and pray, In spite of unbelief: He can break through walls of stone, Sink the mountain to a plain; They, to whom his name is known; Can never pray in vain. Thus in chains of guilt and sin, Poor sinners sleeping lie; No alarm is felt within, Although condemned to die: Till descending from above Mercy smiling in his eyes Jesus, with a voice of love, Awakes, and bids them rise. Glad the summons they obey, And liberty desire; Strait their fetters melt away, Like wax before the fire: By the word of him who died, Guilty pris'ners to release; Every door flies open wide, And they depart in peace.