Flood and Fire

When fear within me blazes fierce and full, 

I turn to fight or flee lest I be burned. 

When I attempt in vain to keep control, 

I fret as fluid worries rise and churn.

 

My Lord, with You the waves won't drown my soul; 

The waters of Your grace will rise above.

Nor, Lord, will I be burned by heat-bright coal, 

For fire of fear will yield to flame of love.

 

Lord, let me come to know You face to face! 

Reveal as much as I can safely hold. 

Please fill me with Your liquid, lively grace; 

Burn in me as my life You shape and mold. 

 

Now yielded to You, this desire I name: 

That, brimmed with You, my life may be all flame.