Verse 1

I asked 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.

Verse 2

‘Twas He that led me thus to pray,

And He, I know, has answered prayer;

But it has been in such a way,

As almost drove me to despair.

Verse 3

I hoped that in some favoured hour

My Lord would answer my request,

And would by His constraining power

Subdue my sins and give me rest.

Verse 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.

Verse 5

Then, with His own strong hand, He seemed

Intent to aggravate my woe;

Thwarted the fair designs I schemed,

Withered my pleasures; laid me low.

Verse 6

“Lord, why is this?” I trembling cried,

“Wilt Thou pursue my soul to death?”

“This is the way,” the Lord replied,

“I answer prayer for grace and faith

Verse 7

“These inward trials I employ,

From self and pride to set you free;

And break your schemes of earthly joy,

That you may find your all in Me.”