God Said, No

I asked God to take away my pain.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away,
But for you to give it up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
Her spirit is whole,
Her body is only temporary.

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

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 from suffering.
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 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!

— Author Unknown —