Prayer for when Suffering

The grace to accept suffering for love of God is a balm so precious that if the vial of the heart containing it is not tightly capped and sealed with humility and the silence of faith and love, it quickly evaporates and escapes into the air through the crack of vain glory.  Be quiet and seek only God’s will.

excerpt from the letters of Passionist founder, St. Paul of the Cross

Lord, forgive me for seeking attention for my sufferings.  When I am in pain, I tend to look outward for answers and guidance instead of focusing inward.  I have even found myself comparing my suffering to others, believing perhaps that if I suffer more, I am more deserving of comfort.  Teach me to bring my burdens to you and your loving arms.  Give me the grace to let go of any sort of vanity as to the cross I may bear.  Let me be humble and accepting of your divine will and know that you will bring all to good.