I ASKED for grace to lift me high
Above the world's depressing cares.
God sent me sorrows. With a sigh
I said, "He has not heard my prayers." I asked for light that I might see
My path along life's thorny road;
But clouds and darkness shadowed me
When I expected light from God. I asked for peace, that I might rest,
And think my sacred duties o'er;
When lo, such horrors filled my breast
As I had never felt before. "And oh!" I cried, "can this be prayer,
Whose plaints the steadfast mountains move?"
Can this be Heaven's prevailing care?
And oh, my God, is this thy love!" But soon I found that sorrow, worn
As duty's garment, strength supplies;
And out of darkness, meekly borne,
Unto the righteous light doth rise. And soon I found that fears, which stirred
My startled soul God's will to do,
On me more real peace conferred
Than in life's calm I ever knew. Then, Lord, in thy mysterious ways
Lead my dependent spirit on;
And whensoe'er it kneels and prays,
Teach it to say, "Thy will be done." Let its one thought, one hope, one prayer,
Thine image seek, thy glory see;
Let every other wish and care
Be left confidingly to thee.
—Sel.