Touch not the bud of this unfolding rose:
There is a law which governs growth in grace.
Have no anxiety, the Father knows
What each one needs in every time and place.
Lift thought in prayer; know that God's law is sure,
His plan is good, His light destroys the dark;
Wait on His love; let steadfast faith endure;
And then refrain from steadying the ark.
Think not in this that love should be withheld—
The tender caring for the daily need—
But know that mortal will must be dispelled
Which animates the interfering deed.
Keep human touch from delicate budding thought,
And claim persistently what God has wrought.
