The older I get, the more enthusiastically I say, “If the Lord wills” (see also what does D.V. mean). Increasingly, I see the truth of this prayer written by an anonymous confederate soldier.
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 hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.
Good stuff. What is it they say, “God answers our prayers the way we would have prayed if we knew what He knew, or could see what He saw”?
I read it to Caroline. She loves it. Words to live by.
Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of The Church of the Resurrection, in Leawood, Kansas, used this “prayer” to conclude his sermon today. In response to multiple requests he has since received, Rev. Hamilton has entered posted on his Facebook page, in which he advised that it was “credited to Admiral Chester Nimitz”. You, on the other hand, have indicated it was written by an anonymous Confederate soldier (an assertion i have seen elsewhere, as well). Perhaps Admiral Nimitz used this “prayer” somewhere along the way and someone mistakenly credited it to him. Do you recall where you leaned that it had been”written by an anonymous confederate soldier”?
Hi Sherwood. Thanks for stopping by. I believe that I quoted it from, Pastoral Theology Essentials, by Thomas Oden.
Thank you, kind sir!
This prayer shows one thing: If you ask/pray for something all you receive is the exact opposite. Not a very strong argument to ‘believe’.