Woman of Canaan

Melody -

John Newton, 1779, from Olney Hymns, vol. 1, hymn 88

Prayer an answer will obtain,
Though the Lord awhile delay;
None shall seek his face in vain,
None be empty sent away.

2. When the woman came from Tyre,
And for help to Jesus sought;
Though he granted her desire,
Yet at first he answered not.

3. Could she guess at his intent,
When he to his follow'rs said,
I to Israel's sheep am sent,
Dogs must not have children's bread.

4. She was not of Israel's seed,
But of Canaan's wretched race;
Thought herself a dog indeed;
Was not this a hopeless case?

5. Yet although from Canaan sprung,
Though a dog herself she styled;
She had Israel's faith and tongue,
And was owned for Abraham's child.

6. From his words she draws a plea;
Though unworthy children's bread,
'Tis enough for one like me,
If with crumbs I may be fed.

7. Jesus then his heart revealed,
Woman canst thou thus believe?
I to thy petition yield,
All that thou canst wish, receive.

8. 'Tis a pattern set for us,
How we ought to wait and pray;
None who plead and wrestle thus,
Shall be empty sent away.

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