‘Tis easier work, if we begin
To serve the Lord betimes:
While sinners who grow old in sin
Are hardened by their crimes.

It saves us from a thousand snares,
To mind religion young:
With joy it crowns succeeding years,
And makes our virtues strong.

To Thee, Almighty God! To Thee
Our hearts we now resign;
‘Twill please us to look back and see
That our whole lives were thine.

Let the sweet work of prayer and praise
Employ our daily breath:
Thus we’re prepared for future days,
Or fit for early death.

—by Isaac Watts