Divine Songs for the Use of Children (1847)/XIX. Against Pride in Clothes

by Isaac Watts

XIX.—Against Pride in Clothes.

1Why should our garments made to hide
Our parents' shame, provoke our pride?
The art of dress did ne'er begin
Till Eve, our mother, learned to sin.

2When first she put the covering on,
Her robe of innocence was gone;
And yet her children, vainly boast
In the sad marks of glory lost.

3How proud we are! how fond to show
Our clothes! and call them rich and new!
When the poor sheep and silkworms wore
That very clothing long before.

4The tulip and the butterfly
Appear in gayer coats than I;
Let me be dress'd fine as I will,
Flies, worms, and flowers excel me still.

5Then will I set my heart to find
Inward adornings of the mind;
Knowledge and virtue, truth and grace,
These are the robes of richest dress.

6No more shall worms with me compare;
This is the raiment angels wear;
The Son of God, when here below,
Put on this blest apparel too.

7It never fades, it ne'er grows old,
Nor fears the rain, nor moth, nor mould;
It takes no spot, but still refines;
The more it's worn, the more it shines.

8In this on earth should I appear,
Then go to heav'n and wear it there,
God will approve it in his sight;
'Tis his own work, and his delight.

 

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