I DO not ask that I may steer
My bark by peaceful shores alone,
Nor that I linger, harbor-bound,
And sail no stormy seas unknown;
I only ask this boon of Thee —
Be ever in the ship with me.
I do not ask that I may dwell
From din of battle far removed,
Nor ever feel temptation’s force,
Nor ever know mine armor proved;
I only ask, through Life’s long fight,
Grant me the power of Thy might.
I do not ask that I may walk
Only on smoothly trodden grass,
Nor ever climb the mountain’s height
And, trembling, through its dangers pass.
I only ask, on rock or sand,
The sure upholding of Thy hand.
I dare not pray for any gift
Upon my pilgrim path to Heaven;
I only ask one thing of Thee―
Give Thou Thyself and all is given.
I am not strong nor brave nor wise:
Be Thou with me—it shall suffice.
Annie Johnson Flint.
(By courtesy of the copyrighters. Evangelical Publishers, Toronto.)