The Heart Taken

The castle of the human heart Strong in its native sin; Is guarded well, in every part, By him who dwells within. For Satan there, in arms, resides, And calls the place his own; With care against assaults provides, And rules, as on a throne. Each traitor thought on him, as chief, In blind obedience waits; And pride, self-will, and unbelief, Are posted at the gates. Thus Satan for a season reigns, And keeps his goods in peace; The soul is pleased to wear his chains, Nor wishes a release. But Jesus, stronger far than he, In his appointed hour Appears, to set his people free From the usurper's pow'r. This heart I bought with blood, he says, And now it shall be mine; His voice the strong one armed dismays, He knows he must resign. In spite of unbelief and pride, And self, and Satan's art; The gates of brass fly open wide, And Jesus wins the heart. The rebel soul that once withstood The Saviour's kindest call; Rejoices now, by grace subdued, To serve him with her all.