My dad wears many hats. Over the years, he’s hung up some of them (the football player hat, the coach hat). But he still wears some very important ones today: husband, father, son, brother, grandpa, christian, mentor, advisor, leader. In my life, he has been an inspiration. He’s the one you go to for professional, financial and car advice. He’s given me some of the best advice that I never asked for. Throughout my teenage years, I gave him more eye rolls than hugs, but I always knew I was blessed to have a dad like him.
On our wedding day, my dad gave the best speech. THE best speech! He recited then, and still does, the “Answered Prayer”. The words really hit home for him. As I recited the words to myself, I saw what a great poem this truly is. I hope you take a moment to read through the poem (shown below). These are great words to reflect on.
ANSWERED PRAYER
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,
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 I had hoped for.
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(Read the full poem here)
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I love the poem. I, as a Preacher of the Gospel have had the honor and privilege of conducting the weddings of my oldest son and oldest daughter. Still have two more boys and two girls to marry yet. Might just work this poem into their ceremony. Thanks for sharing it.
You should! It was a great addition to the wedding and a great reminder of who is really in charge. By the way, you are my hero – 6 children, did I count that right? God blessed you!