Prayer Answered by Crosses By John Newton

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’s 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.

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.

Lord, why is this? I trembling cried; 
 Wilt thou pursue this worm to death? 
 This is the way, the Lord replied I answer prayer for grace and faith.

These inward trials I now employ 
 From self and pride to set thee free, And break thy schemes of earthly joy, 
 That thou may’st seek thy all in me.