James Montgomery

The Christian Soldier.

The Christian warrior, -- see him stand

In the whole armour of his God:

The Spirit's sword is in his hand;

His feet are with the gospel shod;

In panoply of truth complete,

Salvation's helmet on his head:

With righteousness, a breastplate meet;

And faith's broad shield before him spread.

He wrestles not with flesh and blood,

But principalities and powers,

Rulers of darkness, like a flood,

Nigh, and assailing at all hours.

Nor Satan's fiery darts alone,

Quench'd on his shield, at him are hurl'd;

The traitor in his heart is known,

And the dire friendship of this world.

Undaunted to the field he goes;

Yet vain were skill and valour there,

Unless, to foil his legion-foes,

The trustiest weapon were "all-prayer."

With this omnipotence he moves,

From this the alien armies flee,

Till more than conqueror he proves,

Through Christ who gives him victory.

Thus, strong in his Redeemer's strength,

Sin, death, and hell, he tramples down,

Fights the good fight, and wins at length,

Through mercy, an immortal crown.