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