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John Newton - Prayer Answered By Crosses
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I ask`d the Lord, that I might grow 
In faith, and love, and ev`ry grace, 
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 answer`d pray`r; 
But it has been in such a way, 
As almost drove me to despair.

I hop`d that in some favour`d 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 ev`ry part.

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.

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 pray`r for grace and faith.

"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."
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