ZEAL is that pure and heavenly flame The fire of love supplies; While that which often bears the name Is self in a disguise.
True zeal is merciful and mild, Can pity and forbear; The false is headstrong, fierce, and wild, And breathes revenge and war.
Zeal has attained its highest aim, Its end is satisfied, If sinners love the Saviour’s name, Nor seeks it aught beside.
But self, however well-employed, Has its own ends in view, And says, as boasting Jehu cried, ‘Come, see what I can do.’
Self may its poor reward obtain, And be applauded here; But zeal the best applause shall gain, When Jesus shall appear.
Dear Lord, the idol ‘self’ dethrone, And from our hearts remove; And let no zeal by us be shown, But that which springs from love.
John ewton, 1725-1807