To one in doubt there came one day these questions:
Why are my prayers unanswered for so long?
Why is my heart so hurt by life's dark shadows,
Not cheered and lifted by some God-sent song
Of joy—of Life—of Love's eternal presence?
Why does God send to me such deep despair
That all the way of life seems dark and empty—
No sun, no moon, nor star of night so fair?
And then this answer came with sweet compassion:
"God does not hurt the children of His love.
God does not send to you great tribulation,
But comforts you, and bids you rise above
All mortal sense, and fear and pain and sorrow.
They are but phantoms of your troubled dreams.
O child of God, these errors round you thronging
Are mists—to be dispelled by Truth's clear beams."
How can we doubt, or fail to trust God's goodness?
How can we fear, with grief and care oppressed?
We only need to turn to Him who promised,
"Come unto me, and I will give you rest."
Why should we stand in fear of Love's correction?
Why should our hearts shrink back, when to abide
In God's pure love brings freedom from all bondage,
And in His love we shall be satisfied?
