Amazing Grace

John Newton's other hymns

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.

T'was He who taught me thus to pray,
And He, I trust, has answered prayer;
But it has been in such a way
That almost drove me to despair.

I hoped that in some favoured hour
At once He'd answer my requests;
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.

'Lord, why is this?' I trembling cried,
'Wilt Thou pursue Thy worm to death?'
"Tis in this way'. the Lord replied,
'I answered prayer for grace and faith'.