I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, “No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, “No. His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary.”
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, “No. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.”
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, “No. I provide blessings and benefits; happiness is up to you.”
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, “No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.”
I asked God to make my spiritual man grow.
God said, “No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.”
I asked God for many things that I might enjoy life.
God said, “No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.”
I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me.
God said, “Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.”