Put your hand to the plow and go straight ahead

December 17

Put your hand to the plow and go straight ahead,
But never, never look back!
For you can not again live the years that are fled,
So never, never look back.
Before you is work for the Crucified One,
Before you is rest when your day’s work is done;
Before you a crown, when the race you have run,
So never, never look back.

Put your hand to the plow, the goal is in sight,-
But never, never look back!
You must trust in the Lord, and be true to the right,
So never, never look back.
Behind is the past, with its sin and despair;
Behind are the years, filled with sorrow and care;
Before you is life in that country so fair,
Then never, never look back.

Put your hand to the plow, there’s much to be done,
But never, never look back!
For the work of the Master is only begun,
So never, never look back.
Before you are tears you may help wipe away;
Before you are hearts filled with doubt and dismay;
Go, point them to Jesus and help on the way,
But never, never look back.

Chorus
Never, no, never look back!
Never, no, never look back!
If a crown you would wear,
There’s a cross you must bear,
So, never, never look back!
     Johnson Oatman, Jr.