I Asked the Lord That I Might Grow

From Tim Hunt:

I do not know the tune to this hymn, written by John Newton, for I have never heard it sung.
But I find great hope in the truth therin and upon which my faith is hung.


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 favored hour at once he’d answer my request
And by his loves 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 my fair designs I scheme, 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 find thy all in me.


Video added by Richard Roberts, music written by Laura Taylor for Indelible Grace Music