Christian Classics
‹ Olney Hymns

John Newton & William Cowper · 280 of 356

36. I asked the LORD that I might grow

Hymn 36

I asked the LORD that I might grow In faith, and love, and every ; 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 answered prayer! But it has been in such a way, As almost drove me to despair.

I hoped that in some favored 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 every part.

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.

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 and faith.

These inward trials I employ, From self, and pride, to set thee free; And break thy schemes of earthly joy, That thou may’st find thy all in me.”