Friday, September 9, 2011

Challenging Our Perspective About God and Life

Yesterday I found a bookmark. What I read on it made me think. The author isn't listed so I'm not sure who to credit, but I think it may give you pause too.

I Asked God

I asked God for strength, 
that I  might achieve.
I was made weak, 
that I might learn to obey.

I asked God for health,
that I might do great things.
I was given infirmity,
that I might do better things.

I asked God for riches,
that I might be happy.
I was given poverty, 
that I might be wise.

I asked God for power,
that I might have approval.
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 I asked God for,
but everything I hoped for.
I am among all people,
most richly blessed.

What  do you think of these words?  How does this strike you? I'd love to hear your thoughts.  Don't forget to join the conversation.  

6 comments:

Vonda Skelton said...

I've seen this before, but I don't know who wrote it, either. Certainly shows us the truth of God's upside down blessings!

Ellen Andersen said...

According to the Web, it was anonymous.

Cathy Baker said...

I love this poem. I read it years ago and thought I remembered it being written by a soldier but no particular name was given. It's so true, though. It's all about perspective -- and ours is not God's. Isaiah 55:8. Thanks for sharing, Ellen!

S.E.Gregg said...

I believe that this poem means that we may not understand God's ways and why sometimes He does not answer our prayers our way.But,He will always give use just what we need, tailored to fit us perfectly(Philippians 4:19).
For we walk by faith,not by sight. (2Cor.5:7)

Ellen Andersen said...

S.E., I agree completely. He does answer our prayers. In His way, and His time. It can be part of how He teaches us to trust Him.

gcalnon said...

I love your blog, Ellen. It's a real inspiration.

I've also heard this poem before. God always knows what's best for us, since He is our creator.