Once I Prayed Lyrics

Once I prayed, I knew not what I said
Show me myself, oh Lord, alas I did not dread
The hideous sight which now, I shudder to behold
Because I knew not self-aright.

And I was led in answer to my prayer
As step by step to see my wretched heart lay bare
Then I prayed: stay, Lord, I cannot bear the sight
And pityingly His hand was stayed, His hand was stayed.

Now I pray, I know that prayer is right
Show me Thyself, oh Lord, be to myself the Bright
And Morning Star to shine upon the grave of self
And lead my heart from earth afar, from earth afar.