Prayer Answered By Crosses

A poem by Jon Newton, author of Amazing Grace (Psalm 65:5, Acts 14:22)

---

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 hope 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

Assualt 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 mayst seek thy all in Me."