Paul Laurence Dunbar - The Warrior's Prayer lyrics

Long since, in sore distress, I heard one pray, 'Lord, who prevailest with resistless might, Ever from war and strife keep me away, My battles fight!' I know not if I play the Pharisee, And if my brother after all be right; But mine shall be the warrior's plea to thee-- Strength for the fight. I do not ask that thou shalt front the fray, And drive the warring foeman from my sight; I only ask, O Lord, by night, by day, Strength for the fight! When foes upon me press, let me not quail Nor think to turn me into coward flight. I only ask, to make mine arms prevail, Strength for the fight! Still let mine eyes look ever on the foe, Still let mine armor case me strong and bright; And grant me, as I deal each righteous blow, Strength for the fight! And when, at eventide, the fray is done, My soul to d**h's bedchamber do thou light, And give me, be the field or lost or won, Rest from the fight!