Smoking Spiritualized

Smoking Spiritualized. II
Ralph Erskine (1685–1752)

WAS this small plant for thee cut down?
So was the plant of great renown,
      Which Mercy sends
      For nobler ends.
    Thus think, and smoke tobacco.        5

Doth juice medicinal proceed
From such a naughty foreign weed?
      Then what ’s the power
      Of Jesse’s flower?
    Thus think, and smoke tobacco.        10

The promise, like the pipe, inlays,
And by the mouth of faith conveys
      What virtue flows
      From Sharon’s rose:
    Thus think, and smoke tobacco.        15

In vain the unlighted pipe you blow—
Your pains in outward means are so,
      Till heavenly fire
      Your heart inspire:
    Thus think, and smoke tobacco.        20

The smoke like burning incense towers;
So should a praying heart of yours
      With ardent cries
      Surmount the skies:
  Thus think, and smoke tobacco.        25