All I Hoped For

I read this prayer on a bookmark I discovered yesterday in a long lost book.

All I Hoped For

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 got nothing that I asked for - but everything I'd hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

Attributed to a Confederate Soldier 

during the War between the States.

How often we think we know what's best for us, and ask God accordingly. What grace it would take to ask for weakness that we might be made strong in Christ; for a lack of riches so we might be made rich in Christ.


We say the words, 'Thy will be done' so often. Let us pray that we say it honestly, praying for grace to be content in all the providence that our Father may send us.