692    L.M.     John Newton
“Ask what I shall give thee.” 1 Kings 3. 5

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.