Why should I deprive my neighbour
Of his goods against his will?
Hands were meant for honest labour,
Not to plunder, nor to steal.
'Tis a foolish self-deceiving
By such tricks to hope for gain:
All that's ever got by thieving
Turns to sorrow, shame, and pain.
Oft we see the young beginner
Practice little pilfering ways,
Till grown up a hardened sinner,
Then the gallows ends his days.
Theft will not be always hidden,
Though we fancy none can spy;
When we take a thing forbidden,
God holds it with His eye.
Guard my heart, O God of heaven,
Lest is covet what's not mine;
Lest I take what is not given,
Guard my heart and hands from sin.