One Sunday evening as I sat in the pew of a cozy chapel full of worshiping men and women, I found that my own mind was far away. Anxiety, frustration, and discontentment crowded my mind. I flipped absentmindedly to the hymn whose first few notes were being played on the piano, and there I found the fears and doubts and frustrations shattered as the words pierced my dull heart. I realized that I had lost focus, that I had forgotten my purpose, that I was sinfully failing to trust in God. Here are two verses:
“Father, I know that all my life is portioned out for me;
the changes that are sure to come, I do not fear to see:
I ask thee for a present mind, intent on pleasing thee.
“I ask thee for the daily strength, to none that ask denied,
a mind to blend with outward life, while keeping at thy side,
content to fill a little space, if thou be glorified.”
-Anna L. Waring
If, like me, you are tempted to lose perspective, I pray that this hymn will renew your vision, as it did mine.
Ella,
Came across your blog doing a google search on Anna Waring’s hymn from our sermon at church this morning. I am 31 year old mother of three and wife of a seminary student. I hate how easy it is for me to lose sight of the purpose God has for me. I pray God will direct you in your future. It is encouraging to see young women who fear the Lord and strive to live for His glory. Blessings!