1 I Ask'd 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 answer'd Pray'r:
But it has been in such a Way
As almost drove me to Despair.

3 I hop'd that in some favour'd Hour,
At once he'd grant me 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 seem'd
Intent to agravate my Woe;
Cross'd all the fair Designs I schem'd,
Blasted my Gourds, and laid me low.

6 LORD, why is this? I trembling cry'd;
Wilt thou pursue thy worm to Death?
'Tis in this Way, the LORD reply'd,
I answer Pray'r for Grace and Faith.

7 These inward Trials I employ
From Self and Pride to set thee free,
To break thy Schemes of worldly Joy,
That thou may'st seek thy All in Me.