REFLECTION ON PRAYER

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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 great things;
I was given sickness, 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 to have the praise of others;
I was given weakness, to feel the need for God.

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life;
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.

I receive nothing I asked for, but everything I hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayer was answered;
I am, among all people, most richly blessed.