A Contrite Sinner's Prayer for Pardon
Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: According to the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my transgressions; And my sin is ever before me.
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, And done that which is evil in thy sight; That thou mayest be justified when thou speakest, And be clear when thou judgest.
Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity; And in sin did my mother conceive me.
Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts; And in the hidden part thou wilt make me to know wisdom.
Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Make me to hear joy and gladness, That the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Hide thy face from my sins, And blot out all mine iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; And renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence; And take not thy holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; And uphold me with a willing spirit.
Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; And sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation; And my tongue shall sing aloud of they righteousness.
O Lord, open thou my lips; And my mouth shall show forth thy praise.
For thou delightest not in sacrifice; else would I give it: Thou hast no pleasure in burnt-offering.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: A broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: Build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
Then wilt thou delight in the sacrifices of righteousness, In burnt-offering and whole burnt-offering: Then will they offer bullocks upon thine altar.
- Psalms 51: 1-19
***
Prayer to Eradicate Misery
We pray to God to eradicate all the misery in the world: that understanding triumph over ignorance, that generosity triumphs over indifference, that trust triumphs over contempt, and that truth triumphs over falsehood.
Prayers
I Am Afraid of Death
O Lord, I am human and I am afraid of death.
Help me calm my soul and heart
and prepare my spirit for moving from this life
into the glorious eternity that you have promised,
into the heaven where I will dwell with you forever!
- Maureen Pratt
***
On Seeing a Rainbow
Blessed are you, O God, our Lord, King of the Universe, who remembers the covenant, is faithful to his covenant, and keeps his promise
O Lord, I am human and I am afraid of death.
Help me calm my soul and heart
and prepare my spirit for moving from this life
into the glorious eternity that you have promised,
into the heaven where I will dwell with you forever!
- Maureen Pratt
***
On Seeing a Rainbow
Blessed are you, O God, our Lord, King of the Universe, who remembers the covenant, is faithful to his covenant, and keeps his promise
The Gift of a Child
Dear God, I thank You for the gift of this child to raise, this life to share, this mind to help mold, this body to nurture, and this spirit to enrich. Let me never betray this child’s trust, dampen this child’s hope, or discourage this child’s dreams. Help me, dear God, to help this precious child become all you mean him to be. Let your grace and love fall on him like gentle breezes and give him inner strength and peace and patience for the journey ahead.
- Marian Wright Edelman
***
The Greatest Parent
It seems, dear God, that my children are growing
too quickly up and away from me.
I don't know what to say to them anymore.
They are no longer the little girls I used to know.
Help me to learn to trust their judgment, and to entrust their safety to You,
The Greatest Parent of all.
- Beliefnet member RevVic
Dear God, I thank You for the gift of this child to raise, this life to share, this mind to help mold, this body to nurture, and this spirit to enrich. Let me never betray this child’s trust, dampen this child’s hope, or discourage this child’s dreams. Help me, dear God, to help this precious child become all you mean him to be. Let your grace and love fall on him like gentle breezes and give him inner strength and peace and patience for the journey ahead.
- Marian Wright Edelman
***
The Greatest Parent
It seems, dear God, that my children are growing
too quickly up and away from me.
I don't know what to say to them anymore.
They are no longer the little girls I used to know.
Help me to learn to trust their judgment, and to entrust their safety to You,
The Greatest Parent of all.
- Beliefnet member RevVic
Prayer for the Sick
O God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers: mercifully accept our prayers and grant to your servant (name) the help of your power, that her/his sickness may be turned into health and our sorrow into joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
***
Blessing for Many Occasions
The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:
The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
- Numbers 6:24-26
O God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers: mercifully accept our prayers and grant to your servant (name) the help of your power, that her/his sickness may be turned into health and our sorrow into joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
***
Blessing for Many Occasions
The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:
The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
- Numbers 6:24-26
Prayer for the Protection of Animals
O God, source of life and power, Who feedeth the birds of the heavens, increase our tenderness towards all the creatures of Thy hand. Help us to refrain from petty acts of cruelty, or thoughtless deeds of harm to any living animal. May we care for them at all times, especially during hard weather, and protect them from injury so that they learn to trust us as friends. Let our sympathy grow with knowledge, so that the whole creation may rejoice in Thy presence.
- Author Unknown
Prayer for a Baby Who Died
She was so small,
so beautiful,
so full of hope and promise.
What a blessing she has been
to all of us who knew her
those few short months.
She taught us to love,
to hope beyond expectation,
to trust in that which is unseen.
She drew us together
in our anxiety,
our moments of despairing and hopelessness,
as well as in our joys and delight,
and in her every breath.
Her life ended prematurely;
just so had she been born.
Too soon she died.
We wept.
The tears continue.
We hugged
and held one another.
The pain will always linger.
Our hearts emptier
for her absence
and the unfulfilled dreams
she promised.
But the love she brought
into our lives will live forever.
Thank you for giving her to us.
Thank you for the blessing
that she will always be.
Thank you for the love we
would never have known,
but for her
and her brief days with us.
Thank you for _____,
our blessed child of grace.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
O God, source of life and power, Who feedeth the birds of the heavens, increase our tenderness towards all the creatures of Thy hand. Help us to refrain from petty acts of cruelty, or thoughtless deeds of harm to any living animal. May we care for them at all times, especially during hard weather, and protect them from injury so that they learn to trust us as friends. Let our sympathy grow with knowledge, so that the whole creation may rejoice in Thy presence.
- Author Unknown
Prayer for a Baby Who Died
She was so small,
so beautiful,
so full of hope and promise.
What a blessing she has been
to all of us who knew her
those few short months.
She taught us to love,
to hope beyond expectation,
to trust in that which is unseen.
She drew us together
in our anxiety,
our moments of despairing and hopelessness,
as well as in our joys and delight,
and in her every breath.
Her life ended prematurely;
just so had she been born.
Too soon she died.
We wept.
The tears continue.
We hugged
and held one another.
The pain will always linger.
Our hearts emptier
for her absence
and the unfulfilled dreams
she promised.
But the love she brought
into our lives will live forever.
Thank you for giving her to us.
Thank you for the blessing
that she will always be.
Thank you for the love we
would never have known,
but for her
and her brief days with us.
Thank you for _____,
our blessed child of grace.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
To Commit to Purity
Father, I'm praying that (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends will be committed to purity...
Keep their feet from every sinful path, from being in the wrong place at the wrong time! Help them not to associate with those who might be a bad influence, who might lead them into temptation. Turn them away from those intent on wrong living and from their own sinful ways. May they follow a path that swerves neither to the right nor the left. (Psalm 119:101; Proverbs 4:14; Acts 3:26; Proverbs 4:26–27)
Help them to trust that there's no temptation they'll ever face that is beyond their saying no, that You will never let them be tempted beyond what they can handle. When they're tempted, provide a way out—and give them the heart to run from sin in Your strength. May the fruit of the Spirit be evident in their lives, especially the fruit of self-control. (1 Corinthians 10:13; Genesis 39:12; Galatians 5:22–23a)
Help them do what You want them to do, certain that every step they take is sure and right. Clear the way for them; hold them securely so if they stumble across temptation, they won't fall. (Psalm 37:23–24)
No matter what mistakes they've made in the past, may they now choose to live in purity.
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Father, I'm praying that (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends will be committed to purity...
Keep their feet from every sinful path, from being in the wrong place at the wrong time! Help them not to associate with those who might be a bad influence, who might lead them into temptation. Turn them away from those intent on wrong living and from their own sinful ways. May they follow a path that swerves neither to the right nor the left. (Psalm 119:101; Proverbs 4:14; Acts 3:26; Proverbs 4:26–27)
Help them to trust that there's no temptation they'll ever face that is beyond their saying no, that You will never let them be tempted beyond what they can handle. When they're tempted, provide a way out—and give them the heart to run from sin in Your strength. May the fruit of the Spirit be evident in their lives, especially the fruit of self-control. (1 Corinthians 10:13; Genesis 39:12; Galatians 5:22–23a)
Help them do what You want them to do, certain that every step they take is sure and right. Clear the way for them; hold them securely so if they stumble across temptation, they won't fall. (Psalm 37:23–24)
No matter what mistakes they've made in the past, may they now choose to live in purity.
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Prayer for Comfort and Hope
Grant unto us, Almighty God, in all time of sore distress,
the comfort of the forgiveness of our sins.
In time of darkness give us blessed hope,
in time of sickness of body give us quiet courage;
and when the heart is bowed down, and the soul is very heavy,
and life is a burden, and pleasure a weariness,
and the sun is too bright, and life too mirthful,
then may that Spirit, the Spirit of the Comforter, come upon us,
and after our darkness may there be the clear shining of the heavenly light;
that so, being uplifted again by Thy mercy,
we may pass on through this our mortal life
with quiet courage, patient hope, and unshaken trust,
hoping through Thy loving-kindness and tender mercy
to be delivered from death into the large life of the eternal years.
Hear us of Thy mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord – Amen.
- George Dawson
Grant unto us, Almighty God, in all time of sore distress,
the comfort of the forgiveness of our sins.
In time of darkness give us blessed hope,
in time of sickness of body give us quiet courage;
and when the heart is bowed down, and the soul is very heavy,
and life is a burden, and pleasure a weariness,
and the sun is too bright, and life too mirthful,
then may that Spirit, the Spirit of the Comforter, come upon us,
and after our darkness may there be the clear shining of the heavenly light;
that so, being uplifted again by Thy mercy,
we may pass on through this our mortal life
with quiet courage, patient hope, and unshaken trust,
hoping through Thy loving-kindness and tender mercy
to be delivered from death into the large life of the eternal years.
Hear us of Thy mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord – Amen.
- George Dawson
We Pray for Our Child
We pray for our child to lead a life rich in the teachings of the Bible. We pray that our child grows into adulthood with a strong sense of sprituality and grace. We pray that our child will always call on Christ in prayers of thanks and prayers for peace. We pray that our child always enriches the lives of people s/he meets and never leaves anyone sad. We pray for our child.
- Beliefnet member Coastgallery939
****
In Praise of God
You are holy, Lord, the only God,
and Your deeds are wonderful.
You are strong.
You are great.
You are the Most High.
You are Almighty.
You, Holy Father are King of heaven and earth.
You are Three and One, Lord God, all Good.
You are Good, all Good, supreme Good,
Lord God, living and true.
You are love. You are wisdom.
You are humility. You are endurance.
You are rest. You are peace.
You are joy and gladness.
You are justice and moderation.
You are all our riches, and You suffice for us.
You are beauty.
You are gentleness.
You are our protector.
You are our guardian and defender.
You are our courage. You are our haven and our hope.
You are our faith, our great consolation.
You are our eternal life, Great and Wonderful Lord,
God Almighty, Merciful Saviour.
- St. Francis of Assisi
We pray for our child to lead a life rich in the teachings of the Bible. We pray that our child grows into adulthood with a strong sense of sprituality and grace. We pray that our child will always call on Christ in prayers of thanks and prayers for peace. We pray that our child always enriches the lives of people s/he meets and never leaves anyone sad. We pray for our child.
- Beliefnet member Coastgallery939
****
In Praise of God
You are holy, Lord, the only God,
and Your deeds are wonderful.
You are strong.
You are great.
You are the Most High.
You are Almighty.
You, Holy Father are King of heaven and earth.
You are Three and One, Lord God, all Good.
You are Good, all Good, supreme Good,
Lord God, living and true.
You are love. You are wisdom.
You are humility. You are endurance.
You are rest. You are peace.
You are joy and gladness.
You are justice and moderation.
You are all our riches, and You suffice for us.
You are beauty.
You are gentleness.
You are our protector.
You are our guardian and defender.
You are our courage. You are our haven and our hope.
You are our faith, our great consolation.
You are our eternal life, Great and Wonderful Lord,
God Almighty, Merciful Saviour.
- St. Francis of Assisi
Springtime Prayer
For flowers that bloom about our feet,
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet,
For song of bird, and hum of bee,
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
For blue of stream and blue of sky,
For pleasant shade of branches high,
For fragrant air and cooling breeze,
For beauty of the blooming trees,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
***
Prayer of Praise
Blessed be He who spoke and the world came into being; blessed be He.
Blessed be He who maintains the creation.
Blessed be He who speaks and performs.
Blessed be He who decrees and fulfils.
Blessed be He who has mercy upon the earth.
Blessed be He who has mercy on his creatures.
Blessed be He who pays a good reward to those who fear Him.
Blessed be He who lives for ever, and endures to eternity.
Blessed be He who redeems and saves; blessed be his name...
For flowers that bloom about our feet,
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet,
For song of bird, and hum of bee,
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
For blue of stream and blue of sky,
For pleasant shade of branches high,
For fragrant air and cooling breeze,
For beauty of the blooming trees,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
***
Prayer of Praise
Blessed be He who spoke and the world came into being; blessed be He.
Blessed be He who maintains the creation.
Blessed be He who speaks and performs.
Blessed be He who decrees and fulfils.
Blessed be He who has mercy upon the earth.
Blessed be He who has mercy on his creatures.
Blessed be He who pays a good reward to those who fear Him.
Blessed be He who lives for ever, and endures to eternity.
Blessed be He who redeems and saves; blessed be his name...
To Mature In Our Walk
Father, I'm praying for myself and others (name one or more) in my circle of family and friends to become increasingly mature in Christ...
Some have been content not to grow. They've continued to live as infants in Christ, settling for the milk of the Word, not ready to move on to solid food—sometimes for years. Forgive them and change them; help them be willing to grow, to become more mature in their walk, their understanding, and their application of Your Word. (1 Corinthians 3:2; Hebrews 5:12-14)
Help all of us to see wonderful things in Your Word and be eager to live by Your rules, not ours. Direct our steps according to the Word; let no sin rule over us. (Psalm 119:18, 9, 133) Give us a genuine desire to grow beyond simple, elementary truth, becoming strong in our understanding, as we should. (Hebrews 6:1–3)
Grant us perseverance so we'll not only begin but continue to grow in Christ, so one day we'll be complete and not lack anything. Help us count the cost of time and energy and be willing to pay the price. (James 1:4; Luke 14:28)
May we choose to grow spiritually. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Father, I'm praying for myself and others (name one or more) in my circle of family and friends to become increasingly mature in Christ...
Some have been content not to grow. They've continued to live as infants in Christ, settling for the milk of the Word, not ready to move on to solid food—sometimes for years. Forgive them and change them; help them be willing to grow, to become more mature in their walk, their understanding, and their application of Your Word. (1 Corinthians 3:2; Hebrews 5:12-14)
Help all of us to see wonderful things in Your Word and be eager to live by Your rules, not ours. Direct our steps according to the Word; let no sin rule over us. (Psalm 119:18, 9, 133) Give us a genuine desire to grow beyond simple, elementary truth, becoming strong in our understanding, as we should. (Hebrews 6:1–3)
Grant us perseverance so we'll not only begin but continue to grow in Christ, so one day we'll be complete and not lack anything. Help us count the cost of time and energy and be willing to pay the price. (James 1:4; Luke 14:28)
May we choose to grow spiritually. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
An Avalanche of Blessings
Perhaps the invisible shield we hang over our children is made up of the values we instill in them, our desperate caring, our prayer for their safety. So we turn to prayer—for our children and maybe just as much for ourselves. We join our concern with God’s—the divine parent who loves them even more than we do.
We do not pray for our children in some wishful way, superstitiously trying to prevent all harm. Instead we take an active stance that recognizes our human limitations at the same time it bows before God’s power. “I will do everything I can to keep them safe,” we say. “But I’m imperfect. I call on you, great God and loving parent, to protect them when I cannot.”
We ask for an avalanche of blessings, all the best God has in store for them.
- Kathy Coffey
****
Praising God at Mealtime
Be present at our table, Lord,
Be here and everywhere adored.
Thy creatures bless, and grant that we
May feast in paradise with thee.
- John Wesley
***
Perhaps the invisible shield we hang over our children is made up of the values we instill in them, our desperate caring, our prayer for their safety. So we turn to prayer—for our children and maybe just as much for ourselves. We join our concern with God’s—the divine parent who loves them even more than we do.
We do not pray for our children in some wishful way, superstitiously trying to prevent all harm. Instead we take an active stance that recognizes our human limitations at the same time it bows before God’s power. “I will do everything I can to keep them safe,” we say. “But I’m imperfect. I call on you, great God and loving parent, to protect them when I cannot.”
We ask for an avalanche of blessings, all the best God has in store for them.
- Kathy Coffey
****
Praising God at Mealtime
Be present at our table, Lord,
Be here and everywhere adored.
Thy creatures bless, and grant that we
May feast in paradise with thee.
- John Wesley
***
A Prayer for Our Family
O Loving God,
bless our family with your love.
Guard us from all danger and harm;
deliver us from anger that leads to division;
empower us to forgive as we have been forgiven;
and send us into the world
to witness to your love and grace;
in the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Prayer for Students
Father of Light and Wisdom,
thank you for giving me
a mind that can know
and a heart that can love.
Help me to keep learning every day of my life--
no matter what the subject may be.
Let me be convinced that all knowledge leads to you
and let me know how to find you and love you
in all the things you have made.
Encourage me when the studies are difficult
and when I am tempted to give up
Enlighten me when my brain is slow
and help me to grasp the truth held out to me.
Grant me the grace to put my knowledge to use
in building the kingdom of God on earth
so that I may enter the kingdom of God in heaven.
Amen.
O Loving God,
bless our family with your love.
Guard us from all danger and harm;
deliver us from anger that leads to division;
empower us to forgive as we have been forgiven;
and send us into the world
to witness to your love and grace;
in the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Prayer for Students
Father of Light and Wisdom,
thank you for giving me
a mind that can know
and a heart that can love.
Help me to keep learning every day of my life--
no matter what the subject may be.
Let me be convinced that all knowledge leads to you
and let me know how to find you and love you
in all the things you have made.
Encourage me when the studies are difficult
and when I am tempted to give up
Enlighten me when my brain is slow
and help me to grasp the truth held out to me.
Grant me the grace to put my knowledge to use
in building the kingdom of God on earth
so that I may enter the kingdom of God in heaven.
Amen.
Table Blessing
Creator, Sustainer and Life-giver, Bless this food to our use, and us to your service, make us grateful for all your mercies, and mindful of the needs of others. Amen.
***
For the Infirm
For the aged and infirm, for the widowed and orphans, and for the sick and the suffering, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Creator, Sustainer and Life-giver, Bless this food to our use, and us to your service, make us grateful for all your mercies, and mindful of the needs of others. Amen.
***
For the Infirm
For the aged and infirm, for the widowed and orphans, and for the sick and the suffering, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith,
Where there is despair, hope,
Where there is darkness, light,
Where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much
seek to be consoled as to console,
not so much to be understood as to understand,
not so much to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
it is in dying that we awake to eternal life.
- St. Francis of Assisi
***
Make Me Strong in Spirit
Make me strong in spirit,
Courageous in action,
Gentle of heart,
Let me act in wisdom,
Conquer my fear and doubt,
Discover my own hidden gifts,
Meet others with compassion,
Be a source of healing energies,
And face each day with hope and joy.
- Abby Willowroot
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith,
Where there is despair, hope,
Where there is darkness, light,
Where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much
seek to be consoled as to console,
not so much to be understood as to understand,
not so much to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
it is in dying that we awake to eternal life.
- St. Francis of Assisi
***
Make Me Strong in Spirit
Make me strong in spirit,
Courageous in action,
Gentle of heart,
Let me act in wisdom,
Conquer my fear and doubt,
Discover my own hidden gifts,
Meet others with compassion,
Be a source of healing energies,
And face each day with hope and joy.
- Abby Willowroot
Prayer for Those Seeking Meaning
Eternal Wisdom,
source of life and grace,
bless all who are seeking
the meaning of life.
Endow them with courage
to risk the unknown.
Bless them with wonder
to be still and rejoice.
Anoint them with wisdom
to understand the potential
of their dreams.
Blessed is your name,
now and evermore. Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Let Us Live Happily
Let us live happily, without hate amongst those who hate. Let us dwell unhating amidst hateful men.
Let us live happily, in good health amongst those who are sick.
Let us dwell in good health amidst ailing men.
Let us live happily, without yearning for sensual pleasures amongst those who yearn for them.
Let us dwell without yearning amidst those who yearn.
Let us live happily, we who have no impediments. We shall subsist on joy even as the radiant gods.
- The Buddha
Eternal Wisdom,
source of life and grace,
bless all who are seeking
the meaning of life.
Endow them with courage
to risk the unknown.
Bless them with wonder
to be still and rejoice.
Anoint them with wisdom
to understand the potential
of their dreams.
Blessed is your name,
now and evermore. Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Let Us Live Happily
Let us live happily, without hate amongst those who hate. Let us dwell unhating amidst hateful men.
Let us live happily, in good health amongst those who are sick.
Let us dwell in good health amidst ailing men.
Let us live happily, without yearning for sensual pleasures amongst those who yearn for them.
Let us dwell without yearning amidst those who yearn.
Let us live happily, we who have no impediments. We shall subsist on joy even as the radiant gods.
- The Buddha
We Rise With Gratitude
God, Creator of Mystery,
in the growing revelation of reality evolving around us,
we rise with gratitude into an ever larger and larger world.
Our personal life has its meaning,
and is dovetailed in all its co-evolutionary ups and downs
into the larger meaning that encompasses us.
None of us can go it alone: each has innate energies needed by all.
We give thanks to be conscious of the awesome narrative of which we are a part,
paradoxical and baffling as it is and must be.
Amen.
***
Be Mindful, O Lord
Be mindful, O Lord, of those who travel by land, by sea, and by air; of the old and young, the sick, the suffering, the sorrowing, the afflicted, the captives, the needy and the poor; and upon them all send forth Thy mercies, for Thou art the Giver of all good things.
- William Cleary
God, Creator of Mystery,
in the growing revelation of reality evolving around us,
we rise with gratitude into an ever larger and larger world.
Our personal life has its meaning,
and is dovetailed in all its co-evolutionary ups and downs
into the larger meaning that encompasses us.
None of us can go it alone: each has innate energies needed by all.
We give thanks to be conscious of the awesome narrative of which we are a part,
paradoxical and baffling as it is and must be.
Amen.
***
Be Mindful, O Lord
Be mindful, O Lord, of those who travel by land, by sea, and by air; of the old and young, the sick, the suffering, the sorrowing, the afflicted, the captives, the needy and the poor; and upon them all send forth Thy mercies, for Thou art the Giver of all good things.
- William Cleary
Heal Their Emotional Pain
Father, I'm praying for (name one or more) and others in my circle of family or friends in need of Your healing touch for their hurting hearts...
Some of them have received emotional wounds, some of them severe. Help them be willing to let you heal those hurts so they won't become increasingly destructive over time, for You are the Lord who heals. (Exodus 15:26)
I come to You with the same spirit of helplessness and dependence that Moses had when he was leading Your people through the desert. They came to water, but it was bitter and the people had nothing to drink. Moses cried out to You, and You showed him a piece of wood; when he threw it into the water, the water became sweet. I'm now coming on behalf of these who are carrying emotional pain. In my heart I bring the wood of the cross, asking that Christ, who heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds, would bring healing to any bitterness He finds in their hearts. (Exodus 15:23–25; Psalm 147:3; Jeremiah 8:22)
No matter what pain they've suffered, help them not to give into anger, resentment, unforgiveness, or bitterness and become captive to sin. May their hearts not become calloused or hard, but refresh them in Christ. May they not lose heart but be inwardly renewed day by day. (Acts 8:23; Matthew 13:15; Psalm 95:8; Philemon 20; 2 Corinthians 4:16)
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Father, I'm praying for (name one or more) and others in my circle of family or friends in need of Your healing touch for their hurting hearts...
Some of them have received emotional wounds, some of them severe. Help them be willing to let you heal those hurts so they won't become increasingly destructive over time, for You are the Lord who heals. (Exodus 15:26)
I come to You with the same spirit of helplessness and dependence that Moses had when he was leading Your people through the desert. They came to water, but it was bitter and the people had nothing to drink. Moses cried out to You, and You showed him a piece of wood; when he threw it into the water, the water became sweet. I'm now coming on behalf of these who are carrying emotional pain. In my heart I bring the wood of the cross, asking that Christ, who heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds, would bring healing to any bitterness He finds in their hearts. (Exodus 15:23–25; Psalm 147:3; Jeremiah 8:22)
No matter what pain they've suffered, help them not to give into anger, resentment, unforgiveness, or bitterness and become captive to sin. May their hearts not become calloused or hard, but refresh them in Christ. May they not lose heart but be inwardly renewed day by day. (Acts 8:23; Matthew 13:15; Psalm 95:8; Philemon 20; 2 Corinthians 4:16)
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Prayer During Illness
Eternal and most glorious God... Thou alone dost steer my boat through all its voyage, but has a more especial care of it, when it comes to a narrow current, or to a dangerous fall of waters. Thou has a care of the preservation of my body in all the ways of my life; but, in the straits of death, open Thine eyes wider, and enlarge Thy Providence towards me so far that no illness or agony may shake and benumb the soul. Do Thou so make my bed in all my sickness that, being used to Thy hand, I may be content with any bed of Thy making. Amen
- John Donne
***
Eternal and most glorious God... Thou alone dost steer my boat through all its voyage, but has a more especial care of it, when it comes to a narrow current, or to a dangerous fall of waters. Thou has a care of the preservation of my body in all the ways of my life; but, in the straits of death, open Thine eyes wider, and enlarge Thy Providence towards me so far that no illness or agony may shake and benumb the soul. Do Thou so make my bed in all my sickness that, being used to Thy hand, I may be content with any bed of Thy making. Amen
- John Donne
***
Thy Word for a Light
Lord, thou hast given us thy Word for a light to shine upon our path;
grant us so to meditate on that Word, and to follow its teaching,
that we may find in it the light that shines more and more until the perfect day;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
- Jerome (c. 342-420)
***
Prayer for Calm and Comfort
With your soothing fingers,
wipe away the lines that worries have etched on our faces.
Surround us with calm,
let us rest in the glow of peace,
as if we were encircled with the Moon's own light.
Let our concerns and tensions drain away from us,
pouring as water into your Earth.
- Ceisiwr Serith
Lord, thou hast given us thy Word for a light to shine upon our path;
grant us so to meditate on that Word, and to follow its teaching,
that we may find in it the light that shines more and more until the perfect day;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
- Jerome (c. 342-420)
***
Prayer for Calm and Comfort
With your soothing fingers,
wipe away the lines that worries have etched on our faces.
Surround us with calm,
let us rest in the glow of peace,
as if we were encircled with the Moon's own light.
Let our concerns and tensions drain away from us,
pouring as water into your Earth.
- Ceisiwr Serith
A Prayer of Gratitude
Father, into thy hands I give the heart
Which left thee but to learn how good thou art.
- George Macdonald
***
Prayer for the Homeless
O God, as Naomi and Ruth journeyed from one land to another seeking a home, we ask your blessing upon all who are homeless in this world. You promised to your chosen people a land flowing with milk and honey; so inspire us to desire the accomplishment of your will that we may work for the settlement of those who are homeless in a place of peace, protection, and nurture, flowing with opportunity, blessing, and hope. Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Father, into thy hands I give the heart
Which left thee but to learn how good thou art.
- George Macdonald
***
Prayer for the Homeless
O God, as Naomi and Ruth journeyed from one land to another seeking a home, we ask your blessing upon all who are homeless in this world. You promised to your chosen people a land flowing with milk and honey; so inspire us to desire the accomplishment of your will that we may work for the settlement of those who are homeless in a place of peace, protection, and nurture, flowing with opportunity, blessing, and hope. Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Prayer for Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day)
Lord, remember not only the men of good will, but also those of ill will. But do not remember all the suffering they have inflicted upon us. Remember rather the fruits we have brought, thanks to this suffering: our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility, the courage, the generosity, the greatness of heart that has grown out of this. And when they come to judgment, let all the fruits we have bourne be their forgiveness.
***
Praise God
Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; Praise Him with the lute and harp!
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise Him with loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!
- Psalms 150: 1-6
Lord, remember not only the men of good will, but also those of ill will. But do not remember all the suffering they have inflicted upon us. Remember rather the fruits we have brought, thanks to this suffering: our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility, the courage, the generosity, the greatness of heart that has grown out of this. And when they come to judgment, let all the fruits we have bourne be their forgiveness.
***
Praise God
Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; Praise Him with the lute and harp!
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise Him with loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!
- Psalms 150: 1-6
Prayer for Wise Governance
Heavenly Father, we give thanks for the democracy alive in our country and for the freedom to worship You. Help the elected government and all in positions of power and authority to govern wisely and for the common good of all. Amen.
- Harvey Barnes
***
Prayer for Peace
God adjudges us according to our deeds, not the coat that we wear: that Truth is above everything, but higher still is truthful living. Know that we attaineth God when we loveth, and only that victory endures in consequence of which no one is defeated.
Sikh
Heavenly Father, we give thanks for the democracy alive in our country and for the freedom to worship You. Help the elected government and all in positions of power and authority to govern wisely and for the common good of all. Amen.
- Harvey Barnes
***
Prayer for Peace
God adjudges us according to our deeds, not the coat that we wear: that Truth is above everything, but higher still is truthful living. Know that we attaineth God when we loveth, and only that victory endures in consequence of which no one is defeated.
Sikh
Put on the Whole Armor of God
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.
Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
- Ephesians 6: 10-17
***
Prayer of Thanks
Throughout all generations we will render thanks unto Thee
And declare Thy praise,
Evening, morning, and noon,
For our lives which are in Thy care,
For our souls which are in Thy keeping
For thy miracles which we witness daily,
And for Thy wondrous deeds and blessings toward us at all times.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.
Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
- Ephesians 6: 10-17
***
Prayer of Thanks
Throughout all generations we will render thanks unto Thee
And declare Thy praise,
Evening, morning, and noon,
For our lives which are in Thy care,
For our souls which are in Thy keeping
For thy miracles which we witness daily,
And for Thy wondrous deeds and blessings toward us at all times.
Prayer for One Who Contemplates Suicide
O God of eternal life,
bless all who contemplate
taking their own life.
Grant them peace
from the internal fears and doubts,
from the turmoil of failures,
from the pain and suffering
in their souls.
Endow them with hope
for the days ahead,
courage to make new beginnings,
and love to strengthen
their resolve to live.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Prayer for Animals
Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals,
especially for animals who are suffering;
for animals that are overworked, underfed and cruelly treated;
for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars;
for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry;
for all that must be put death.
We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity,
and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion
and gentle hands and kindly words.
Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals,
and so to share the blessings of the merciful.
- Albert Schweitzer
O God of eternal life,
bless all who contemplate
taking their own life.
Grant them peace
from the internal fears and doubts,
from the turmoil of failures,
from the pain and suffering
in their souls.
Endow them with hope
for the days ahead,
courage to make new beginnings,
and love to strengthen
their resolve to live.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Prayer for Animals
Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals,
especially for animals who are suffering;
for animals that are overworked, underfed and cruelly treated;
for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars;
for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry;
for all that must be put death.
We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity,
and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion
and gentle hands and kindly words.
Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals,
and so to share the blessings of the merciful.
- Albert Schweitzer
Prayer for Those With Cancer
Bless, O God,
all who struggle with cancer.
Empower them with hope
for each and every day.
Provide them with loving
and tender care, laughter,
and the support of love.
Grant them
courage when they are afraid,
comfort when they are in pain,
and your blessing
when all else seems hopeless,
that in their fight with illness
they may continue to praise you
and glorify your name.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Lord's Prayer for the Military Wife
Lord, Grant me the greatness of heart to see,
the difference in duty and his love for me.
Give me the understanding to know,
That when duty calls he must go.
Give me a task to do each day,
to fill the time when he is away,
And Lord, when duty is in the field,
Please protect him and be his shield.
Bless, O God,
all who struggle with cancer.
Empower them with hope
for each and every day.
Provide them with loving
and tender care, laughter,
and the support of love.
Grant them
courage when they are afraid,
comfort when they are in pain,
and your blessing
when all else seems hopeless,
that in their fight with illness
they may continue to praise you
and glorify your name.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Lord's Prayer for the Military Wife
Lord, Grant me the greatness of heart to see,
the difference in duty and his love for me.
Give me the understanding to know,
That when duty calls he must go.
Give me a task to do each day,
to fill the time when he is away,
And Lord, when duty is in the field,
Please protect him and be his shield.
Prayer for Life's Journey
May we know that it is the journey that is important. May we find our own truths and the divine within ourselves and in doing so help our fellow travelers to find their own. May we see each other through spirit and not through worldly eyes. Namaste
- Beliefnet member DivineJourney
****
Prayer of Confession
All the evil karma ever committed by me since of old,
On account of greed, anger, and folly, which have no beginning,
Born of my body, mouth, and thought--
I now make full open confession of it.
***
Help Me Avoid Toxic Relationships
Heavenly Father, I sometimes get into relationships
that are not good for me.
Please help me better discern how I relate to
the people in my life
and give me the wisdom to know when a relationship
is not giving you glory and is harmful to me.
Bring me courage to avoid toxic relationships
and help nurture what is good and just in all things.
- Maureen Pratt
May we know that it is the journey that is important. May we find our own truths and the divine within ourselves and in doing so help our fellow travelers to find their own. May we see each other through spirit and not through worldly eyes. Namaste
- Beliefnet member DivineJourney
****
Prayer of Confession
All the evil karma ever committed by me since of old,
On account of greed, anger, and folly, which have no beginning,
Born of my body, mouth, and thought--
I now make full open confession of it.
***
Help Me Avoid Toxic Relationships
Heavenly Father, I sometimes get into relationships
that are not good for me.
Please help me better discern how I relate to
the people in my life
and give me the wisdom to know when a relationship
is not giving you glory and is harmful to me.
Bring me courage to avoid toxic relationships
and help nurture what is good and just in all things.
- Maureen Pratt
Billy Graham's Prayer for the Nation
Our Father and Our God, we praise You for Your goodness to our nation, giving us blessings far beyond what we deserve. Yet we know all is not right with America. We deeply need a moral and spiritual renewal to help us meet the many problems we face. Convict us of sin. Help us to turn to You in repentance and faith. Set our feet on the path of Your righteousness and peace. We pray today for our nation's leaders. Give them the wisdom to know what is right, and the courage to do it. You have said, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." May this be a new era for America, as we humble ourselves and acknowledge You alone as our Savior and Lord. This we pray in Your holy name, Amen.
- Billy Graham
***
Biker's Prayer
As we go out on our ride,
We pray the Lord rides by our side,
Keep us safe and in your sight,
And let it rain some other night.
Our Father and Our God, we praise You for Your goodness to our nation, giving us blessings far beyond what we deserve. Yet we know all is not right with America. We deeply need a moral and spiritual renewal to help us meet the many problems we face. Convict us of sin. Help us to turn to You in repentance and faith. Set our feet on the path of Your righteousness and peace. We pray today for our nation's leaders. Give them the wisdom to know what is right, and the courage to do it. You have said, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." May this be a new era for America, as we humble ourselves and acknowledge You alone as our Savior and Lord. This we pray in Your holy name, Amen.
- Billy Graham
***
Biker's Prayer
As we go out on our ride,
We pray the Lord rides by our side,
Keep us safe and in your sight,
And let it rain some other night.
The Blessing of Unanswered Prayers
I asked for strength that I might achieve;
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I had asked for,
but eveything that I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered;
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.
- Unknown Confederate soldier
***
Lead Me to Peace
Lead me from death to life,
from falsehood to truth.
Lead me from despair to hope,
from fear to trust.
Lead me from hate to love,
from war to peace.
Let peace fill my heart,
my world, my universe.
Amen.
I asked for strength that I might achieve;
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I had asked for,
but eveything that I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered;
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.
- Unknown Confederate soldier
***
Lead Me to Peace
Lead me from death to life,
from falsehood to truth.
Lead me from despair to hope,
from fear to trust.
Lead me from hate to love,
from war to peace.
Let peace fill my heart,
my world, my universe.
Amen.
Prayer for the Brokenhearted
O God,
whose love restores
the brokenhearted of this world:
pour out your love,
we beseech you,
upon those who feel
lonely, abandoned, or unloved.
Strengthen their hope
to meet the days ahead;
give them the courage
to form life-giving friendships;
and bless them with the joy
of your eternal peace.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Grace After Meals (Bendigamos)
Let us bless the Most High
The Lord who raised us,
Let us give him thanks
For the good things which he has given us.
Praised be his Holy Name,
Because he always took pity on us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Let us bless the Most High
First for his Law,
Which binds our race
With heaven continually.
Praised be his Holy Name,
Because he always took pity on us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Let us bless the Most High,
Secondly for the bread
And also for the foods
Which we have eaten together.
For we have eaten and drunk happily
His mercy has never failed us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Blessed be this house,
The home of his presence,
Where we keep his feast,
With happiness and permanence.
Praised be his Holy Name,
Because he always took pity on us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
O God,
whose love restores
the brokenhearted of this world:
pour out your love,
we beseech you,
upon those who feel
lonely, abandoned, or unloved.
Strengthen their hope
to meet the days ahead;
give them the courage
to form life-giving friendships;
and bless them with the joy
of your eternal peace.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
***
Grace After Meals (Bendigamos)
Let us bless the Most High
The Lord who raised us,
Let us give him thanks
For the good things which he has given us.
Praised be his Holy Name,
Because he always took pity on us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Let us bless the Most High
First for his Law,
Which binds our race
With heaven continually.
Praised be his Holy Name,
Because he always took pity on us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Let us bless the Most High,
Secondly for the bread
And also for the foods
Which we have eaten together.
For we have eaten and drunk happily
His mercy has never failed us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Blessed be this house,
The home of his presence,
Where we keep his feast,
With happiness and permanence.
Praised be his Holy Name,
Because he always took pity on us.
Praise the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy is everlasting.
Just for Today
Lord, for tomorrow and its needs,
I do not pray;
Keep me, my God, from stain of sin
Just for today.
Let me both diligently work,
And duly pray.
Let me be kind in word and deed,
Just for today.
Let me be slow to do my will,
Prompt to obey;
Help me to sacrifice myself
Just for today.
And if today my tide of life
Should ebb away,
Give me thy Sacraments divine,
Sweet Lord today.
So for tomorrow and its needs
I do not pray,
But keep me, guide me, love me, Lord,
Just for today.
- Sybil F. Partridge
***
Prayer for Creative Work
O most Glorious and Blessed God, I present myself and this work into Your hands. Do with it as You will. Guide my thoughts. Hold my hands, that You alone are writing (painting, carving) through me, producing whatever You wish me to say. And now, O my Beloved and my Joy, I prostrate myself into Your most loving embrace in thanks that You give me talent, inspiration, discipline to do Your work. Amen. So be it.
- Sophy Burnham
Lord, for tomorrow and its needs,
I do not pray;
Keep me, my God, from stain of sin
Just for today.
Let me both diligently work,
And duly pray.
Let me be kind in word and deed,
Just for today.
Let me be slow to do my will,
Prompt to obey;
Help me to sacrifice myself
Just for today.
And if today my tide of life
Should ebb away,
Give me thy Sacraments divine,
Sweet Lord today.
So for tomorrow and its needs
I do not pray,
But keep me, guide me, love me, Lord,
Just for today.
- Sybil F. Partridge
***
Prayer for Creative Work
O most Glorious and Blessed God, I present myself and this work into Your hands. Do with it as You will. Guide my thoughts. Hold my hands, that You alone are writing (painting, carving) through me, producing whatever You wish me to say. And now, O my Beloved and my Joy, I prostrate myself into Your most loving embrace in thanks that You give me talent, inspiration, discipline to do Your work. Amen. So be it.
- Sophy Burnham