Knowing God

We just finished our study of Knowing God by J.I. Packer at Maison de la Vie. There is so much rich wisdom in this book that we all learned from (not that I agree with everything). If I were to start typing out quotations from the beginning to end, I would probably infringe upon copyright law. But there are two things that I do want to share, the first from "These Inward trial". It is a poem/hymn by John Newton that expresses the experience of many believers as we pray for growth.

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.

I hoped that in some favoured hour
At once He'd answer my request,
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.

Yea more, with His own hand He seemed
Intent to aggravate my woe;
Crossed all the fair designs I schemed,
Blasted my gourds, and laid me low.

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

"These inward trials I employ
From self and pride to set thee free;
And break thy schemes of earthly joy,
That thou may'st seek thy all in me."

Second part to come...