Why do you vex my soul, dear Holy God,

Have I not knelt and honored all Thy grace?

This humble life raised up from sullen sod,

By earnest hope, still yearns to see Thy face.

Here by the dust You breathed into new life

What is the purpose that I struggle so?

Is it my lot but to suffer endless strife

And wonder whither still my soul must go?

Perhaps my faith seems weakened or untrue—

If this be so, let punishment amend

And by contrition lead my heart to You,

That I press on and never sin again.

Albeit vengeance, I accept Your choice:

I begged direction, though I heard no voice.