# Another explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

This poem reflects on the nature of true prayer and wisdom, emphasizing that God first prepares the heart to desire what is good before granting requests. It contrasts worldly desires with spiritual longings, and culminates in a prayer for holiness, freedom from sin, and the indwelling presence of Christ.

## Themes in this chapter

### Prayer and Dependence on God

The poem centers on the proper posture of prayer, recognizing that God must first teach us to ask aright.

### Grace and Unmerited Favor

The speaker's requests for pardon, holiness, and the presence of Christ are framed as gracious gifts from God.

## Character check-ins

### Solomon

Referenced as the one who prayed for wisdom, having been made wise by the Lord beforehand.

### The Lord

The one who instructs his people how to choose and promises to grant their requests.

### Satan

Mentioned as the power from which the speaker desires to be freed.

### Jesus Christ

Referred to as the Saviour whose love kindles love in return, and whose presence and image are sought.

## Key lines

> If Solomon for wisdom pray’d, The Lord before had made him wise; Else he another choice had made, And ask’d for what the worldings prize.

Solomon's prayer for wisdom was itself a gift from God; otherwise he would have asked for worldly things.

_Highlights the doctrine of prevenient grace in prayer._

> Our wishes would our ruin prove, Could we our wretched choice obtain— Before we feel the Saviour’s love Kindle our love to him again:

If we got what we naturally wanted, it would destroy us; but the Saviour's love first changes our hearts to love him.

_Emphasizes the necessity of grace to transform our desires._

> I pray to be released from guilt, And freed from sin and Satan’s power.

My prayer is for forgiveness and deliverance from the dominion of sin and the devil.

_A petition for spiritual liberation._

> Grant these requests—I ask no more, But to thy care the rest resign; Sick or in health, or rich or poor, All shall be well if thou art mine.

I ask only for these spiritual blessings and leave all other circumstances to God; as long as I have him, all is well.

_Expresses contentment and trust in God's providence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/32-another
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters