IW
Verse 1
Let the wild leopards of the wood
Put off the spots that nature gives,
Then may the wicked turn to God,
And change their tempers and their lives.
Verse 2
As well might Ethiopian slaves
Wash out the darkness of their skin;
The dead as well might leave their graves,
As old transgressors cease to sin.
Verse 3
Where vice has held its empire long
’Twill not endure the least control;
None but a power divinely strong
Can turn the current of the soul.
Verse 4
Great God, I own thy power divine,
That works to change this heart of mine;
I would be form’d anew, and bless
The wonders of creating grace.
Isaac Watts, “Let the Wild Leopards of the Wood”