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