By A Collection of Hymns

      C.M. Before Private Prayer.
      1 FATHER of Jesus Christ, my Lord,
      I humbly seek thy face,
      Encouraged by the Saviour's word
      To ask thy pardoning grace.

      2 Entering into into my closet, I
      The busy world exclude,
      In secret prayer for mercy cry,
      And groan to he renewed.

      3 Far from the paths of men, to thee
      I solemnly retire;
      See, thou who dost in secret see,
      And grant my heart's desire.

      4 Thy grace I languish to receive,
      The Spirit of love and power,
      Blameless before thy face to live,
      To live and sin no more.

      5 Fain would I all thy goodness feel,
      And know my sins forgiven,
      And do on earth thy perfect will
      As angels do in heaven.

      6 O Father, glorify thy Son,
      And grant what I require;
      For Jesu's sake the gift send down,
      And answer me by fire.

      7 Kindle the flame of love within,
      Which may to heaven ascend,
      And now the work of grace begin,
      Which shall in glory end.