I ask'd the Lord, that I might grow In faith, and love, and ev'ry grace,
Might more of his salvation know,
And seek more earnestly his face.'Twas he who taught me thus to pray,
And he,
I trust has answer'd pray'r;
But it has been in such a way,
As almost drove me to despair.
I hop'd that in some favour'd hour,
At once he'd answer my request:
And by his love's constraining pow'r,
Subdue my sins, and give me rest.
Instead of this. he made me feel The hidden evils of my heart;
And let the angry pow'rs of hell Assault my soul in ev'ry part.
Yea more, with his own hand he seem'd Intent to aggravate my woe;
Cross'd all the fair designs I schem'd,
Blasted my gourds, and laid me low.
Lord, why is this,
I trembling cry'd,
Wilt thou pursue thy worm to death? "'Tis in this way," the Lord reply'd, "I answer pray'r for grace and faith."These inward trials I employ, "From self and pride to set thee free; "And break thy schemes of earthly joy, "That thou mayst seek thy all in me."
