Answered Prayer

These lines are frequently attributed to an unknown Confederate soldier. The verses are actually by the prolific American poet, Edgar A. Guest from a poem entitled “Answered Prayer”.

Decide for yourself on the quality of the poem.

Answered Prayer

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.

I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for health, that I might do greater things.

I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.

I asked for riches, that I might be happy.

I was given poverty, that I might be wise.

I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.

I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.

I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.

I received nothing that I asked for, all that I hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I am, among all men, most blessed…

As Martin Luther put it, “We pray for silver, but God often gives us gold instead.”

For those interested, Prayer by O. Hallesby, PhD (1931), a reverent and thoughtful analysis of prayer, may be found at  www.prayermeetings.org/…/Hallesby_O_Prayer_with_note-space.doc .

READERS CAN FIND MY VIEWS ON ABUSE AND ABUSE-RELATED ISSUES AT ANNA WALDHERR A Voice Reclaimed, Surviving Child Abuse  http://www.avoicereclaimed.com