Overtaken

by Shawn Smith - Jan 25, 2008

I am overtaken
by the weakness of my flesh.
When thoughts of goodness rise within
I'm filled with selfishness.

The vows are made, the tears are shed,
I cast all thoughts aside.
But then it's all forgotten
And I feel that I have died.

A darkness overwhelms me
As I am filled with woe.
I seek rest for my troubled mind,
But I find no place to go.

Oh to be much stronger
And show some fortitude.
Oh to cast off wickedness
And finally do some good.

Continually there burns
A raging fire within,
Which consumes all of my goodness,
and urges me to sin.
 
No prayers, nor fasts or righteous deeds
It's stubborn pulse restrains.
Nor tears, which flow so freely,
Can take away my pain.

Assist me, God in heaven,
But whence arose that prayer?
Sprung it from my piety,
or from my long despair?