I confess that my prayers aren’t usually the most eloquent. Mine are mostly the breathless utterances of a longing spirit all throughout the day. I know that the Lord receives those prayers(Romans 8:26). However, most mornings I love borrowing the prayers of those beloved saints who have gone before–in this instance, the Puritans.

Today I’m sharing one from a book which has quickly become a favorite, Into His Presence, by Tim Chester. My dad introduced me to the Puritans back in high school, and I have been challenged and blessed by their words ever-since:

A Prayer for the Coming Day

Eternal Lord, you are the great fountain of being and of happiness. As from you my being was derived, so from you my happiness directly flows; the nearer I am to you the more delicious is the stream.

For with you is the fountain of life; in you light we see light. Psalm 36:9

To you may my waking thoughts be directed. May my first actions be consecrated to you, O God, who gives me, as it were, every morning a new life. Enable my heart to pour out itself before you with a filial reverence, freedom, and endearment. May I read your word with attention and pleasure, and may my soul be delivered into its mould. Animated by the great motives in your word, may I renew my dedication to you through Jesus Christ your beloved Son. May I derive from him new supplies of your Spirit, whose influences are the life of my soul.

Then Lord, lead me into the duties and events of the day. In the calling to which you have called me, may I abide with you, not being slothful, but fervent in spirit, as one who serves Christ. To your glory, O Lord, may my labours be pursued; and to your glory may my refreshments be sought.

May I be watchful to observe mercies from you; and may gratitude add a savour and relish to all. And when afflictions come, as in this life they must, may I remember that they come from you. Make me aware, I pray, of my own weaknesses, that my heart may be raised to you for present communications of strength. When I am in the society of others, may it be my desire to do and receive as much good as possible. And when I am alone, may I enjoy the pleasure of your presence. May I end each day with a right fear of you, Lord, and when I review my conduct, may I be impartial. May I resign myself to sleep in sweet serenity, conscious that I have lived to you in the day, and cheerfully persuaded that I am accepted by you in Christ Jesus my Lord.

-Philip Doddridge

May the Lord bless your week!