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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.
 
2  I would not have a restive will
    That hurries to and fro,
Seeking for some great thing to do
    Or secret thing to know;
I would a willing servant be,
    And guided where I go.
 
3  Wherever in the world I am,
    In whatso’er estate,
I have a witness to all hearts
    To keep and cultivate;
A work of lowly love to do
    For Him on Whom I wait.
 
4  I ask Thee for the daily strength,
    To none that ask denied;
A mind concerned with those around,
    While keeping at Thy side;
Content to fill a humble place,
    If Thou be glorified.
 
5  Briars beset our daily path,
    That call for patient care;
There is a cross in every lot,
    An earnest need for prayer:
But lowly hearts that lean on Thee,
    Are happy anywhere.
 
6  In service which Thy will appoints
    There are no bonds for me;
My inmost heart is taught the Truth
    That makes Thy servants free;
A life of self-renouncing love
    Is one of liberty.
 
Anna Letitia Waring, 1820-1910‡