A Confederate Soldier's Prayer
He who suffers prays.
Over 31 million were involved in the American Civil War (1861 - 1865), this prayer was recorded.
An unknown Confederate soldier prayed:
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 had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.
I am, among men, most richly blessed... if only because of You, Lord. Amen.
Prayer changes man, not God.