Philippi Melanthonis Epigrammatvm Libri Tres

THE FIRST BOOK OF THE EPIGRAMS OF PHILIPP MELANCHTHON.

Detestation of negligence from Chapter 17 of Exodus.

A sharp Idumean had dared to keep the Hebrews
From the borders while they were wandering through desert places.
And he joined battle, but Moses aids the weapons
Of his own people, and stirs up great battles with prayers.
And he conquers as often as he stretches his palms to the stars,
And he feels God to be present whom he calls before him.
But as often as he lets his tired arms fall again,
The crowd of the Hebrew leader is forced to yield.
Therefore, all day long, while the enemy is scattered and driven away,
So that he might be able to keep his palms erected.
A rocky mass is placed under the elbows of the one praying,
And of the one seeking help for his own with a worried heart.
Thus, as often as we have relaxed our care and prayers to Him,
Insidious leisure harms the secure.
Allurements enter empty minds with sweetness,
And easily drag inclined breasts into vice.
Therefore, let our many dangers sharpen our cares,
And the ways of destruction proposed to us.
Nor let anyone think that he can emerge from these storms,
Unless God himself brings present help.