Ask what I shall give thee

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

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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Give me to read my pardon sealed,
And from thy joy to draw my strength;
To have thy matchless love revealed
In all its height, and breadth, and length.

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

J. NEWTON