I Asked The Lord that I Might Grow

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 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. Verse 3 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. Verse 4 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. Verse 5 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. Verse 6 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 grace and faith. Verse 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 find thy all in Me."