I would but can't...

I once promised to post hymn lyrics here more often. The words of one hymn have been on my mind and lips for weeks now - perhaps they will resonate with you as well.

Help My Unbelief
Words by John Newton*
I know the Lord is nigh,
And would but cannot pray,
For Satan meets me when I try,
And frights my soul away.
And frights my soul away.

I would but can't repent,
Though I endeavor oft,
This stony heart can ne'er relent
Till Jesus makes it soft.
Till Jesus makes it soft.

Help my unbelief. Help my unbelief.
Help my unbelief.
My help must come from Thee.

I would but cannot love,
Though wooed by love divine;
No arguments have power to move
A soul as base as mine.
A soul so base as mine.

I would but cannot rest,
in God's most holy will;
I know what he appoints is best,
And murmur at it still.
I murmur at it still.

Help my unbelief. Help my unbelief.
Help my unbelief.
My help must come from Thee.


* The author of this hymn, John Newton, is most famous for writing "Amazing Grace." However, after studying a bit about his life in recent weeks, I believe that he should be known for much more than that. Once a slave trader, Christ grabbed a hold of him and completely transformed his life. He became a pastor and was a friend and mentor to many well-known figures of his day, including William Wilberforce, the British parliamentarian who almost single-handedly ended the British slave trade. The lives of both of these men are worth studying and emulating.