It is in time of war that we become most acutely aware of our dependence on God. Whether the conflict is between nations or people, it never seems like it ends as the forces of evil try to derail the forces of love. I cannot overcome evil alone but I can recognize it and not ignore it; call it out to others as a warning sign, and trust in God that there is a way back to His kingdom. We haven’t advanced in our need to feel superior to others since the earliest of times. These stanzas were written over 200 years ago in a testimony to the conflict in our war against evil and the blessing that we still receive even when the world is in conflict.

I asked 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;
I 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 that I asked for
but everything that I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered,
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

Blessings, my friend,
Agatha