Olney Hymns (1840)/Book 1/Hymn 32

32.
Another.

1 If Solomon for wisdom pray'd,
The Lord before had made him wise;
Else he another choice had made,
And ask'd for what the worldings prize.

2 Thus he invites his people still,—
He first instructs them how to choose,
Then bids them ask whate'er they will,
Assured that he will not refuse.

3 Our wishes would our ruin prove,
Could we our wretched choice obtain,—
Before we feel the Saviour's love
Kindle our love to him again:

4 But when our hearts perceive his worth,
Desires, till then unknown, take place;
Our spirits cleave no more to earth,
But pant for holiness and grace.

5 And dost thou say, "Ask what thou wilt"?
Lord, I would seize the golden hour,—
I pray to be released from guilt,
And freed from sin and Satan's power.

6 More of thy presence, Lord, impart;
More of thy image let me bear;
Erect thy throne within my heart,
And reign without a rival there.

7 Give me to read my pardon seal'd,
And from thy joy to draw my strength,—
To have thy boundless love reveal'd
In all its height and breadth and length.

8 Grant these requests,—I ask no more,
But to thy care the rest resign;
Sick or in health, or rich or poor,
All shall be well if thou art mine.