I asked the Lord... and He has answered!

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.

' 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 favoured hour

at once He'd answer my request;

and, by His love constraining power,

subdue my sins, and give me rest.

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.

Yes, more, with His own hand He seemed

intent to aggravate my woe,

crossed all fair designs I schemed,

blasted my gourds, and laid me low.

' Lord, why is this?' I trembling cried,

'will you pursue my worn to death?'

' Tis in this way', the Lord replied,

'I answer prayer for grace and faith'.

"These inward trials I employ,

from self and pride to set you free,

and break your schemes of earthly joy,

that you may seek your all in ME."

John Newton, 1725-1807
748, Christian  Hymns