Paul prayed; he lifted up his heart in faith
To the true God, whom he had come to know,
The God whose goodness called him from his dream
Of hatred in religion's name to serve
The very Christ whom he had so despised.
He prayed that there might be removed from him
The thorn which seemed a torment to his flesh,
Not for mere selfish ease, but that he might
Give surer proof of his discipleship.
Though learning in some measure to exchange
Mistaken zeal for true humility,
Relinquishing his pride of birth and creed
To share their lot who suffered for Truth's sake,
Yet even this did not prove quite enough.
More of Christ's nature he must yet put on
Before deliverance could be brought to him.
