St. Thomas Aquinas once prayed: “Give me, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy thought can drag downward; an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon me also, O Lord my God, understanding to know thee, diligence to seek thee, wisdom to find thee, and a faithfulness that may … embrace thee.” This is not a prayer of pride—it’s a humble cry for transformation. Aquinas doesn’t ask for ease or comfort; he asks for a heart anchored in God no matter what comes. Temptation, suffering and confusion are part of life. But God can shape a heart that endures, seeks and holds fast. Let us therefore ask God for a heart that doesn’t just believe in Him—but longs for Him, holds to Him and will not let go.
