What a Man Can Do

Can a man forget his sins Or shall they plague him all his life? Will he fight their mem'ry forever In a secret war of strife? Can a man deny his own desire Though it fiercely claims his flesh? Will he have mastery over it Or will he fail his test? Can a man kill God in rebellion And still be welcomed Home? Does the Lord yet tread beside him Or does he thenceforth tread alone? Can a man earn his salvation If his penitence is great? Nay, only repentance stands Preceded by God's grace