A Mother's Prayer

I ask not for riches for my little boy;

His poverty – this is my plea;

That poor in his spirit he’d cry out to You;

From all trust in self he would flee.

I ask not that happiness fills all his days,

But fear of his Holy God grows;

That mourning both sin and contempt for Your Name,

Your comfort in Christ he would know.

I ask not that he’d do all he wants to achieve,

But instead would submit to Your will;

And as he learns meekness, You’d teach him Your ways,

In awe of You he would “Be still”.

I ask not that he’d be satisfied with his lot,

But a hunger and thirst he would feel,

And for righteousness’ sake a slave he would be,

Your Spirit in him as Your seal.

I ask not for accolades in his career,

But mercy to others he’d show;

Keen to forgive those who’ve wronged him at all,

His own sins once scarlet - now snow.

I ask not that he’d win the acclaim of his friends,

But Your face alone he would seek;

His conscience now cleansed by the blood of the Lamb

Your truth from his heart he would speak.

I ask not that his life from trouble be free,

But his work be the gospel of peace,

And that deep in his heart his sonship he’d know

So that fear and worry can cease.

O Lord, now I’m trembling - please come, strengthen me,

Voice faltering as I intercede;

Should he be persecuted because of his faith

I pray that Your grace meets our need.

(based on Matthew 5:3-10)