Resources on Poetry
When we pray to grow in every grace, the Lord hears and answers, but not in the way we might imagine, much less want. John Newton’s poem is full of personal experience and pastoral wisdom. God grants what we need most, and, in the end, we are satisfied. 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. ’Twas he who taught me thus to pray, And he, I trust, has answered prayer! But it has been in such a way, As almost drove me to despair. I hoped that in some favored hour, At once he’d answer my request; And by his love’s…
Read MoreA warning against worldliness from French Protestant pastor and poet Antoine de Chandieu (1534-1591): Never having and always desiring, Such are the consequences for him who loves the world. The more he abounds in honor and riches, The more he is seen aspiring for more. He does not enjoy what belongs to him: He wants, he values, he adores what other people have. When he has everything, it is then that he has nothing. Because having everything, he desires everything still. – from Scott M. Manetsch, Calvin’s Company of Pastors: Pastoral Care and the Emerging Reformed Church, 1536-1609 (Oxford: 2013), 98.
Read MoreOur pleasure and our duty, Though opposite before, Since we have seen His beauty, Are joined to part no more: It is our highest pleasure, No less than duty’s call, To love Him beyond measure, And serve Him with our all. – John Newton
Read MoreOur pleasure and our duty, Though opposite before, Since we have seen His beauty, Are joined to part no more: It is our highest pleasure, No less than duty’s call, To love Him beyond measure, And serve Him with our all. – John Newton
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