The Ark of Praise ‎#54

54. Take up Thy Cross

1 The way is long, and rough, and dark,
But I have trod it all for thee;
My footprints all the journey mark,—
Take up thy cross, and follow me.

Refrain:
Take up thy cross its burden bear,
If thou would’st my disciple be;
Who bears the cross the crown shall wear,—
Take up thy cross, and follow me.

2 Let not the mountain’s stony height,
Nor yet the swelling of the sea,
With foolish fears thy soul affright,—
Take up thy cross, and follow me. [Refrain]

3 When storms arise and griefs assail,
To me thy Refuge quickly flee,
My loving care shall never fail,—
Take up thy cross, and follow me. [Refrain]

4 Though foes beset thee, do not yield,
For I thy Leader strong will be;
With breastplate on, and faith thy shield,
Take up thy cross, and follow me. [Refrain]

5 Then noble strive, and vict’ry gain,
A crown of glory waiteth thee;
But if thou would’st thy crown attain,
Take up thy cross, and follow me. [Refrain]

Text Information

• First Line: The way is long and rough
• Title: Take up Thy Cross
• Author: H. M. Bird
• Refrain First Line: Take up thy cross
• Publication Date: 1882
• Scripture:
  Matthew 16:24
• Notes: Public Domain.

Tune Information

• Name: [The way is long and rough]
• Composer: Jno. R. Sweney
• Notes: Public Domain.