Prayer answered by Crosses by John Newton

1 I ask'd the Lord, that I might grow In faith, and love, and ev'ry grace, Might more of his salvation know, And seek more earnestly his face. 2 'Twas he who taught me thus to pray, And he, I trust has answer'd pray'r; But it has been in such a way, As almost drove me to despair. 3 I hop'd that in some favour'd hour, At once he'd answer my request: And by his love's constraining pow'r, Subdue my sins, and give me rest. 4 Instead of this. he made me feel The hidden evils of my heart; And let the angry pow'rs of hell Assault my soul in ev'ry part. 5 Yea more, with his own hand he seem'd Intent to aggravate my woe; Cross'd all the fair designs I schem'd, Blasted my gourds, and laid me low. 6 Lord, why is this, I trembling cry'd, Wilt thou pursue thy worm to death? "'Tis in this way," the Lord reply'd, "I answer pray'r for grace and faith. 7 "These inward trials I employ, "From self and pride to set thee free; "And break thy schemes of earthly joy, "That thou mayst seek thy all in me."

Free Francis Chan Audio Book - Forgotten God

Each month Christian Audio has a free book for download.  This month is Francis Chan's "Forgotten God".  I benefited from his previous book "Crazy Love" and expect this one will be good as well. 

Here is the link

HT

Free Desiring God Audiobook

Each month christianaudio.com gives away a free audio book.  Sometimes they are really good ones.  This month is no exception; they are giving away free copies of Desiring God by John Piper .

Backpacking at Looking Glass Rock

I was able to go backpacking at Looking Glass Rock on Friday and Saturday. We hiked up on Friday night. The next morning we fixed eggs and bacon on the cliff face. The view was really beautiful. We had about a 180 degree panorama overlooking the Blue Ridge mountains. Temperatures were ideal, and although we had a few brief showers early in the morning on Saturday, they really did not hinder us.
We did some hiking around on Saturday along some of the side trails through the dense rhododendron growth. Really is a neat place to go.


Here is a panorama that I stitched together. It really does not do justice to the view though! It is actually a lot wider. What an awesome, creative God we serve!