1.

If in the Church to serve is your desire,
The way that Jesus went you must go too.
You cannot teach or anyone inspire
Until your life before the Lord is true.

2.

You see the splinter in the eyes of others.
The plank that’s in your own eye you don’t see.
You weigh and scrutinize your sisters, brothers,
But do you follow Jesus faithfully?

3.

The dirt at others’ doors you’re quick to mention,
But have you cleaned your own debris away?
Yes, first your own affairs need your attention.
Start taking heed unto yourself today.

4.

The others’ blunders carefully you’re tracking,
And yet you disregard the good they do.
When you with others deal, your sword’s not lacking,
But do you let the sword divide in you?

5.

Be first a doer, then you can start teaching—
Like Paul who said to others, “Follow me.”
Then in the Church your work will be far-reaching,
And what you say will never shaken be.

Written in 1937 by Elihu Pedersen (published in 1937)Composed by Ira David SankeyText © Stiftelsen Skjulte Skatters ForlagNorway ⋅ G