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I asked for strength that I might achieve;
He made me weak that I might obey.

I asked for health that I might do greater things;
I was given grace 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 others;
I was given weakness that I might 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 got nothing that I asked for but got everything
I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself,
my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all people, most richly blessed.

A Confederate Soldier's Prayer