“That I May Know Him.” Philippians. 3:10
Lord, let me talk to Thee of all I do,
All that I care for, all I wish for too;
Lord, let me prove Thy sympathy, Thy power,
Thy loving oversight from hour to hour.
When I need counsel, let me ask of Thee,
Whatever my perplexity may be;
It cannot be too small for me to bring
To One who marks the sparrow’s drooping wing.
Nor too terrestrial, since Thou hast said,
The very hairs are numbered on our head;
Tis through such loopholes that the foe takes aim
And sparks unheeded burst into a flame.
Do money troubles press? Thou canst resolve
The doubts and dangers such concerns involve;
Are those I love the cause of anxious care?
Thou canst unbind all burdens they may bear.
Before the mysteries of Thy Word and will,
Thy voice can gently bid my heart be still;
Since all that now is hard to understand,
Thou wilt unravel in your heavenly land.
Or do I mourn the sore besetting sin –
The tempter’s wiles, which mar the peace within?
Present Thyself, Lord, as our great High Priest,
By whom confessing, we go forth released.
Do weakness, weariness, disease invade
This earthly house which Thou, Thyself, hast made?
Thou only, Lord, can touch the hidden spring
Of mischief, and attune the jarring string.
Would I be taught what Thou wouldst have me give,
The needs of those less favored to relieve?
Thou canst so guide my hand that I shall be
A liberal, cheerful giver, Lord, like Thee.
Of my life’s mission do I stand in doubt?
Thou knowest! Thou canst clearly point it out,
Whither I go, do Thou Thyself decide,
And choose the friends and servants at my side.
The books I read would I submit to Thee:
Let them refresh, instruct and solace me,
I would converse with Thee from day to day,
With heart intent on what Thou hast to say.
Since Thou art willing thus to condescend
To be my intimate, familiar friend,
O! let me to the great occasion rise,
And count Thy friendship, life’s most glorious prize.