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God Said No

14 April 2004, 8 am | Prayer

I asked God to take away my bad habits.
God said, No.
It is not for Me to take away,
    but for you to give it up.

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations;
    it isn’t granted, it is learned.

I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings;
    Happiness is up to you.

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares
    and brings you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own,
    but I will prune you to make you fruitful.

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life,
    so that you may enjoy all things.

I ask God to help me LOVE others,
    as much as He loves me.
God said…Ahhhh.
Finally you have the idea.

— prayer from an email chain letter