When children give their hearts to God, ’Tis pleasing in His eyes; A flower, when offered in the bud, Is no vain sacrifice. ’Tis better far, if we begin To fear the Lord betimes; For sinners, who grow old in sin, Are hardened by their crimes. It saves us from a thousand snares To mind religion young; Grace will preserve our following years, And make our virtues strong. To Thee, almighty God, to Thee May we our hearts resign; ’Twill please us to look back and see That our whole lives were Thine. Let the sweet work of prayer and praise Employ our youngest breath; Thus we’re prepared for longer days, Or fit for early death.