Unspoken Prayer

ANONYMOUS

Sometimes God doesn’t answer the prayers of men the way men want him to. As this prayer illustrates—one found in the pocket of an unknown Confederate soldier at the end of the Civil War—what we ask from God might be given to us in a way we never imagined. In the end, God knows what is best for us and works all things for our good.

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve;

I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly 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 I asked for but everything I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I am, among men, most richly blessed.