I asked the Lord by John Newton

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 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
Assault 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,
Cast out my feelings, 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 seek thy all in me,

That thou mayest seek thy all in me."