I am no longer what I was

I am no longer what I was – deceitful tongue and violent mind – 

For my Lord Christ has made me strong through his own mercy, good and kind.

I did not know my futile ways; my ignorance led down paths of wrong.

But Jesus claimed me for his own, and cleared my heart, and changed my song.

The grace of God flowed o’er my soul with faith and love that are Christ’s own,

For Jesus came to save us all, and plant his love where hate had grown.

Now to the Lord, our only God, unseen, immortal God of love,

Give all our honor for all time, and glory here as giv’n above.

TEXT: Charles Spence Freeman, 2019, after 1 Timothy 1:12-17

MUSIC: Suggested tune O WALY WALY, English folk melody