1. I asked the Lord that I might grow
In faith and love and ev’ry grace,
Might more of His salvation know
And seek more earnestly His face.

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.

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.

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 ev’ry part.

5. Yea more with His own hand He seemed
Intent to aggravate my woe,
Crossed all the fair designs I schemed,
Humbled my heart, and laid me low.

6. “Lord, why is this,” I, trembling, cried;
“Will Thou pursue thy worm to death?”
“Tis in this way,” the Lord replied,
“I answer prayer for grace and faith.”

7. “These inward trials I employ
From self and pride to set you free,
And break thy schemes of earthly joy
That thou may’st find your all in Me.”

Words: John Newton, 1779
Music: O Waly, Waly, Scottish traditional tune

Hymnology was produced by Grace Productions in partnership with Hymns of Grace. Hymns of Grace exist to assist believers in their corporate and private worship of God. For more information about Hymns of Grace, visit: https://hymnsofgrace.com