The Cyber Hymnal ‎#12760

12760. Speak Not Harshly

1 Speak not harshly when reproving
Those from duty’s path who stray;
If we would reclaim the erring
Kindness must each action sway.

2 Speak not harshly to the wayward—
Win their confidence—their love;
They will feel how pure the motive
That hath led us to reprove.

3 Speak not harshly to the stranger,
Thou he come in humble guise;
Think how slight a thing would kindle
Gladness in a stranger’s eyes.

4 Speak not harshly to the felon,
Though like adamant his heart;
Touch one chord of fond affection,
And the scalding tear may start.

5 Speak not harshly to the orphan,
They have borne of grief their share;
Add not to their heavy burden,
Add not to corroding care.

6 Speak not harshly, was the precept
Which to man the Savior taught—
May that precept ever guide us—
Gentle words will cost us naught.

Text Information

• First Line: Speak not harshly when reproving
• Title: Speak Not Harshly
• Author: Fanny Crosby
• Meter: 87.87
• Language: English
• Source: Monterey, and Other Poems (New York: R. Craighead, 1851)
• Copyright: Public Domain
• Notes: Alternate tunes: EVENING PRAYER by George C. Stebbins, NASHIK by France A. Blackmer, RATHBUN by Ithamar Conkey

Tune Information

• Name: LYDIA
• Composer: George Coles Stebbins (before 1913)
• Meter: 87.87
• Key: C Major
• Copyright: Public Domain