The Song Book of the Salvation Army ‎#780

780. They bid me choose an easier path

1 They bid me choose an easier path,
And seek a lighter cross;
Thy bid me mingle with Heaven’s gold
A little of earth’s dross;
They bid me, but in vain, once more
The world’s illusions try;
I cannot leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die.

2 They say the fighting is too hard,
My strength of small avail,
When foes beset and friends are fled,
My faith must surely fail.
But, O how can I quit my post
While millions sin-bound lie?
I cannot leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die.

3 They say I can a Christian be,
And serve God quite as well,
And reach Heaven just as surely by
The music of church bell;
But, O the drum and clarion call
Of band make my pulse fly!
I cannot leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die.

4 I answer, life is fleeting fast,
I cannot, cannot wait;
For me my comrades beckoning stand
Beyond the pearly gate;
I hear their hallelujahs grand,
I hear their battle cry:
O do not leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die!

Text Information

• First Line: They bid me choose an easier path
• Author: Frederick Booth-Tucker (1853-1929)
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1986
• Topic: The salvation soldier: The flag

Tune Information

(No tune information)