How is our nature marred by sin!

How is our nature marred by sin!
Nor can it ever find
A way to make the conscience clean,
Or heal the wounded mind.

In vain we seek for peace with God,
By methods of our own;
Jesus, there's nothing but thy blood
Can bring us near the throne.

The threatenings of the broken law
Impress our souls with dread;
If God his sword of vengeance draw,
It strikes our spirits dead.

But thy illustrious sacrifice
Has answered these demands;
And peace and pardon from the skies
Come down by Jesus' hands.

'Tis by thy death we live, O Lord!
'Tis on thy cross we rest;
For ever be thy love adored,
Thy name for ever blest.