1. At first I prayed for light:
    Could I but see the way,
    How gladly, swiftly would I walk
    To everlasting day!
  2. And next I prayed for strength:
    That I might tread the road
    With firm, unfalt’ring feet, and win
    The heav’ns’ serene abode.
  3. And then I prayed for faith:
    Could I but trust my God,
    I’d live enfolded in His peace,
    Though foes were all abroad.
  4. But now I pray for love:
    Deep love to God and man;
    A living love that will not fail,
    However dark His plan.
  5. And light and strength and faith
    Are op’ning everywhere!
    God waited patiently until
    I prayed the larger prayer.