Combining the poetry idea and tying in to comments made at Chez Shea, here’s an example of a good hymn:

1. Speak, O Lord, Thy servant heareth,
To Thy Word I now give heed;
Life and spirit Thy Word beareth,
All Thy Word is true indeed.
Death's dread power in me is rife;
Jesus, may Thy Word of Life
Fill my soul with love's strong fervor
That I cling to Thee forever.

2. Oh, what blessing to be near Thee
And to hearken to Thy voice!
May I ever love and fear Thee
That Thy Word may be my choice!
Oft were hardened sinners, Lord,
Struck with terror by Thy Word;
But to him who for sin grieveth
Comfort sweet and hope it giveth.

3. Lord, Thy words are waters living
Where I quench my thirsty need;
Lord, Thy words are bread life-giving,
On Thy words my Soul doth feed.
Lord, Thy words shall be my light
Through death's vale and dreary night;
Yea, they are my sword prevailing
And my cup of joy unfailing.

4. Precious Jesus, I beseech Thee,
May Thy words take root in me;
May this gift from heaven enrich me
So that I bear fruit for Thee!
Take them never from my heart
Till I see Thee as Thou art,
When in heavenly bliss and glory
I shall greet Thee and adore Thee.

Hymn #296
The Lutheran Hymnal © 1941
Author: Anna Sophia of Hesse, 1658
Translated by: George A.T. Rygh, 1909

Granted, some rhymes aren’t terrific and the last three lines could be considered presumptuous, but the main thrust of this hymn is unambiguous and earnest.

The tune usually used here Werde Munter by Johan Schop is a nice bit of 17th century melody, so long as it isn't taken too slowly.