Logos Virtual Library: George Herbert: The Temple: The Church: Submission

George Herbert

George Herbert (1593-1633)

The Temple

Submission

But that thou art my wisdome, Lord,

And both mine eyes are thine,
My minde would be extreamly stirr’d

For missing my designe.

Were it not better to bestow

Some place and power on me?
Then should thy praises with me grow,

And share in my degree.

But when I thus dispute and grieve,

I do resume my sight,
And pilfring what I once did give,

Disseize thee of thy right.

How know I, if thou shouldst me raise,

That I should then raise thee?
Perhaps great places and thy praise

Do not so well agree.

Wherefore unto my gift I stand;

I will no more advise:
Onely do thou lend me a hand,

Since thou hast both mine eyes.