1 With holy zeal and Christian grace,
I'll take the armor for the race,
Whilst foes and fears beset me round,
In Christ the Lord my strength is found.
2 Forever blessed be the Lord,
His word he gives me for a sword,
And he commands to wield it well,
Against the powers of earth and hell.
3 His righteousness a breastplate yields,
Whilst faith affords a glorious shield,
His free salvation's sovereign grace,
Shall on my head the helmet place.
4 Thus armed and martialed for the field,
Against temptation doubly steeled,
The glorious combat I begin,
Declaring war with flesh and sin.
5 My heavenly Captain's watchful care,
Shall keep me from the tempter's snare;
His spirit guide my wandering feet,
Till I his face in glory meet.
The Hartford Selection of Hymns from the most approved authors, 1799