Society hymns, original and selected on evangelical and experimental subjects ‎#XVI

XVI. 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 answer'd prayer;
But it has been in such a way
As almost drove me to despair.

3 I hoped that in some favour'd 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 seem'd
Intent to aggravate my woe;
Cross'd all the fair designs I schem'd,
Blasted my gourds, and laid me low.

6 "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 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 may'st seek thy all in me."

Text Information

• First Line: I ask'd the Lord that I might grow
• Title: Prayer answered by Crosses
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1790
• Notes: Now Public Domain.

Tune Information

(No tune information)