Sentence Prayers

Lord, I pray not for an emotional high, but for steadfastness of soul.

I pray not for happiness, but for joy.

I pray not for forgetfulness, but for the ability to forgive.

I pray not for the end of trials, but for grace in them.

I pray not for pleasure, but for purpose.

I pray not for the cessation of my loved one's struggles, but for their growth through them.

I pray not for a roadmap of my life, but for a light for my path.

I pray not for visions and thunder, but for an ear to hear your still, small voice.

I pray not for the fire to be cooled, but for the crucible to purify.

I pray not for independence, but for brokenness of spirit.

In all these things, I pray not for the quick, nor for the shallow. I pray not for what I want, but for what I need. I will set my eyes beyond my own pain, beyond my own reason, beyond my own understanding, and seek you alone.

And in all these things, I humbly beg your grace, for you alone are the Author and Perfecter of my faith.

Amen.
© 2001 Paula Marolewski

You have my permission to reprint and distribute this article as long as it is distributed in its entirety, including all links and copyright information. This article is not to be sold or included with anything that is sold.

Paula J. Marolewski provides challenging and interactive adult Bible studies for individuals, Bible studies, small groups, and adult Sunday School classes at Sink Your Roots (www.SinkYourRoots.com). Studies include such topics as Debunking the Myths about Knowing God's Will.