Well Known Prayer / Unknown Writer

Some call this the prayer of an unknown confederate soldier; others say it was found on the body of a World War one soldier. The author is lost, but I have no doubt that this prayer is the cry of all our hearts, especially in light of world events. Pray with me.

I asked 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 people.

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 got nothing that I had asked for,

but everything that I had hoped for. 

Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered,

I am, among all people, most richly blessed.

“Don’t bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This isn’t a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we’re in. If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? As bad as you are, you wouldn’t think of such a thing. You’re at least decent to your own children. Don’t you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better? (Matthew 7:7-11, MSG)