Full Lyrics
Dependence, by William Cowper, 1779
To keep the lamp alive,
With oil we fill the bowl;
'Tis water makes the willow thrive;
And grace that feeds the soul.
The Lord's unsparing hand
Supplies the living stream;
It is not at our command,
But still derived from Him.
Beware of Peter's word*,
Nor confidently say,
"I never will deny Thee, Lord,"
But grant I never may.
Man's wisdom is to seek
His strength in God alone;
And e'en an angel would be weak,
Who trusted in his own.
Retreat beneath His wings,
And in His grace confide;
This more exalts the King of Kings**
Than all your works beside.
In Jesus is our store,
Grace issues from His throne;
Whoever says, "I want no more,"
Confesses he has none.
*. Matt. 26:33. **. John 6:29
