A Selection of Hymns for Public Worship. In four parts (10th ed.) (Gadsby's Hymns) ‎#295

295. Prayer Answered by Crosses

1 I ask'd the Lord that I might grow
In faith, and love, and every grace;
Might more of his salvation know,
And seek more earnestly his face.

2 [’Twas he who taught me thus to pray,
And he, I trust, has answered prayer;
But it has been in such a way
As almost drove me to despair.]

3 I hoped that in some favoured hour,
At once he’d answer my request;
And, by his love’s constraining power,
Subdue my sins, and give me rest.

4 Instead of this, he made me feel
The hidden evils of my heart,
And let the angry powers of hell
Assault my soul in every part.

5 Yea, more, with his own hand he seemed
Intent to aggravate my woe;
Crossed all the fair designs I schemed,
Blasted my gourds, and laid me low.

6 “Lord, why is this?” I trembling cried;
“Wilt thou pursue thy worm to death?”
“’Tis in this way,” the Lord replied,
“I answer prayer for grace and faith.

7 “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.”

Text Information

• First Line: I ask'd the Lord that I might grow
• Title: Prayer Answered by Crosses
• Author: Newton
• Meter: L. M.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1844
• Topic: Tribulation and Inconstancy of Mind

Tune Information

(No tune information)