And God Said No

A gardener carefully prunes a small fruit tree in a quiet orchard.
Patient tending leaves room for new growth and fruit.

I asked God to take away my pride. And God said "No". He said it was not for him to take away, but for me to give it up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. And God said "No". He said her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience. And God said "No". He said patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn't granted, it is earned.

I asked God to give me happiness. And God said "No". He said he gives me blessings, happiness is up to me.

I asked God to spare me pain. And God said "No". He said suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow. And God said "No". He said I must grow on my own. But he will prune me to make me fruitful.

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

I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me. And God said, Ah, finally you have the idea.

This prayer's role in the Soul Search of a Bride to Be

Further reading

The final movement of this reflection turns from requests for changed circumstances toward the desire to love others. Jacques Philippe’s Interior Freedom explores the freedom that grows through faith, hope and love, even when much of life remains outside our control.

Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe (paperback) on Amazon (paid link)