I Follow Hard After You

There are countless distractions on every side;
Some brazenly beckon, and some cunningly pull aside.
But my heart, mind, and soul is set,
To follow hard after You, to even nearer get.
As I learn what pleases and what You hate to see,
I seek to draw closer to what I need to be.
I follow hard after righteousness and peace.
I desire for wisdom within to increase.
Your holy strength and presence I rely on.
Your Holy Word of Truth I stand upon.
There is no place I would rather be.
Because of Your watch-care over me;
I am very sure I’ll find my way,
Through every evil, harmful thing, that could lead astray.
It is exciting, as I struggle against flesh,
Self is crucified. Your strength has overpowered it.
Oh, sweet victories, delights, and desire,
When, God’s presence touches with Holy fire.
As I seek His kingdom and leave the world’s ways behind,
I find, as I have followed hard after Him…  He has always had me in mind.

Jeremiah 31:3
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.