Verse 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
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 favoured hour
At once He'd answer my request
And by His love's constraining power
Subdue my sins and give me rest
Verse 4
Instead of this He made me feel
The hidden evils of the heart
And let the angry powers of hell
Assault my soul in ev'ry part
Verse 5
Yea more with His own hand He seemed
Intent to aggravate my woe
Crossed all the fair designs I'd 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 seek Thy all in me