God's Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that God's answer to humanity's prayers and questions often comes in unexpected ways, and may not be what people want to hear. It suggests that God's wisdom is beyond human understanding, and that His answers may be difficult or painful, but ultimately for the greater good. The speaker of the poem implores God to give them the strength to accept His answer, even if it is not what they had hoped for.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 181 words
First lines
Once in a time of trouble and of care I dreamed I talked with God about my pain; With sleepland courage, daring to complain Of what I deemed ungracious and unfair. ‘Lord, I have grovelled on my knees in prayer Hour after hour,' I cried; ‘yet all in vain; No hand leads up to heights I would attain, No path is shown me out of my despair.'
Then answered God: ‘Three things I gave to thee- Clear brain, brave will, and strength of mind and heart, All implements divine, to shape the way. Why shift the burden of thy toil on Me? Till to the utmost he has done his part With all his might, let no man _dare_ to pray. '
What this Textopian page supports
God's Answer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 181 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Religious — The content involves a conversation with God and explores themes of faith and divine intervention.
- Philosophical — The text delves into existential questions and the human condition, reflecting on personal responsibility and the nature of prayer.
- Inspirational — The message encourages self-reliance and inner strength, aiming to inspire and motivate the reader.
Tags
Poetry · Spirituality · Religion · Philosophy · Inspirational · Motivational · Christianity · Faith · Hope · Optimism · Positive Thinking · Mindfulness