Our wishes would our ruin prove

1 Our wishes would our ruin prove,
Could we our wretched choice obtain,
Before we feel the Savior's love,
Kindling our love to him again.

2 But when our hearts perceive his worth,
Desires, till then unknown, take place;
Our spirits cleave no more to earth,
But pant for holiness and grace.

3 And dost thou say, "Ask what thou wilt?"
Lord, I would seize the golden hour;
I pray to be released from guilt,
And freed from sin and Satan's power.

4 More of thy presence, Lord, impart,
More of thine image let me bear;
Erect thy throne within my heart,
And reign without a rival there.

The Hartford Selection of Hymns from the most approved authors, 1799