(Prayer of a confederate soldier: A creed for the disabled)
I asked God for strength that I might achieve; I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things; I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy; I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men; was given weakness that I might feel the need of 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 for, but everything I hoped for. Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. I am amongst men, most richly blessed.
The prayer you have just read was written by an unknown confederate soldier in World War 2. The first time I laid my eyes upon it was on the 7th of July 1999. It was my last day of a five week programme in a Twelve Step drug rehabilitation centre in Cape Town and I had five more months to go in a secondary facility. I had finally surrendered. I was broken and I was fearful. I had nothing, nothing except the voice of God. A voice I had finally recognized as the Voice of my Creator. He had spoken to me that day, so clearly, so directly. I have never heard Him as clearly as I did that day through this prayer. He wanted me. He was interested in me. He loved me, and He was willing to save me. He wanted to teach me everything I needed to know; how to get free from my habit, and above all, have peace. All I had to do was not pick up that first one, all I had to do was listen.
It wasn’t easy, believe me. As a matter of fact it’s been the hardest and toughest thing I have ever had to do in my life. How do I “do” life? How do I get clean? How do I stay clean? I am alone and I am afraid.
Was there hope for me? Absolutely! Is there hope for you? The answer is an unquestionable yes! I have fallen off the wagon many times, but God has never left my side and He has always been there to help me back up. He will do the same for you.
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