Incidental Musings

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 Thy worm 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 thee free,
And break thy schemes of earthly joy
That thou mayest seek thy all in Me.”

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 …