Thursday Evening
O Lord, Thy glory is above all our thoughts and Thy mercy is over all Thy works.
THOU hast sent Thy only Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. O Lord, we believe; help our unbelief. Give us true repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ; and let the love of God be shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given us.
THOU knowest, O Lord, all our temptations and the sin which doth so easily beset us. Thou knowest the devices of the enemy and the deceitfulness of our own hearts. We pray Thee, good Lord, that Thou wilt arm us with the whole armour of God. Uphold us with Thy free Spirit and watch over us for good evermore.
LET our supplications also ascend before Thee for the whole race of mankind. Send Thy word unto all the ends of the earth, and let it be the savour of life unto all that hear it.
BE gracious to this our native land. Do Thou rule all our rulers, counsel all our counselors, teach all our teachers, and order all the public affairs to Thy glory. Turn from us the judgments which we feel or fear. Continue Thy blessings to our souls and bodies. And notwithstanding all our provocations, be Thou still our God and let us be Thy people.
BE gracious to all our friends and neighbours. Bless our relations with the best of Thy blessings, with Thy fear and love. Preserve us from our enemies, and reconcile them both to us and to Thyself.
LET Thy blessing rest upon us of this family. In every condition secure our hearts to Thyself, and make us ever to approve ourselves sincere and faithful in Thy service.
AND now, O Father of mercies, be pleased to accept our evening sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Imprint and preserve upon our hearts a lively sense of all Thy kindness to us, that our souls may bless Thee, and all that is within us may praise Thy holy Name.
FOR all Thy patience with us, Thy care over us and Thy continual mercy to us, blessed be Thy Name, O Lord God, our heavenly Father. And unto Thee, with the Son of Thy love, and the Spirit of grace, be all thanks and praise now and for evermore. Our Father, etc.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Family Prayers for each day of the week by John Wesley
Thursday Morning
O Lord, the God of our Salvation, Thou art the hope of the ends of the earth. Upon Thee the eyes of all do wait; for Thou givest unto all, life, and breath, and all things. Thou still watchest over us for good; Thou daily renewest to us our lives and Thy mercies; and Thou hast given us the assurance of Thy word, that if we commit our affairs to Thee, if we acknowledge Thee in our ways, Thou wilt direct our paths.
WE desire, O Lord, to be still under Thy gracious conduct and fatherly protection. We beg the guidance and help of Thy good Spirit to dispose of us and all that concerns us, to the glory of Thy Name.
O Lord, withdraw not Thy tender mercies from us, nor the comforts of Thy presence. Pardon all our sins, and save us from all our iniquities.
SANCTIFY to us all our employments in the world, our crosses also, and our comforts, all the estates we go through, and all the events that befall us.
GRACIOUS Father, keep us, we pray Thee, this day in Thy fear and favour, and teach us, in all our thoughts, words and works, to live to Thy glory. If Thou guide us not, we go astray; if Thou uphold us not, we fall. Let Thy good providence be our defence, and Thy good Spirit our guide and counselor, and supporter in all our ways. And grant that we may do always what is acceptable in Thy sight, through Jesus Christ our Lord, in whose holy Name we close these our imperfect prayers; Our Father, etc
Let Thy grace, O Lord Jesus; Thy love, O heavenly Father; and Thy comfortable fellowship, O blessed Spirit, be with us, and all who desire our prayers, this day and for ever more.
O Lord, the God of our Salvation, Thou art the hope of the ends of the earth. Upon Thee the eyes of all do wait; for Thou givest unto all, life, and breath, and all things. Thou still watchest over us for good; Thou daily renewest to us our lives and Thy mercies; and Thou hast given us the assurance of Thy word, that if we commit our affairs to Thee, if we acknowledge Thee in our ways, Thou wilt direct our paths.
WE desire, O Lord, to be still under Thy gracious conduct and fatherly protection. We beg the guidance and help of Thy good Spirit to dispose of us and all that concerns us, to the glory of Thy Name.
O Lord, withdraw not Thy tender mercies from us, nor the comforts of Thy presence. Pardon all our sins, and save us from all our iniquities.
SANCTIFY to us all our employments in the world, our crosses also, and our comforts, all the estates we go through, and all the events that befall us.
GRACIOUS Father, keep us, we pray Thee, this day in Thy fear and favour, and teach us, in all our thoughts, words and works, to live to Thy glory. If Thou guide us not, we go astray; if Thou uphold us not, we fall. Let Thy good providence be our defence, and Thy good Spirit our guide and counselor, and supporter in all our ways. And grant that we may do always what is acceptable in Thy sight, through Jesus Christ our Lord, in whose holy Name we close these our imperfect prayers; Our Father, etc
Let Thy grace, O Lord Jesus; Thy love, O heavenly Father; and Thy comfortable fellowship, O blessed Spirit, be with us, and all who desire our prayers, this day and for ever more.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Family Prayers for each day of the week by John Wesley
Family Prayers for each day of the week by John Wesley
Wednesday Evening
O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! In wisdom hast Thou made them all. The day is Thine; the night also is Thine; Thou hast prepared the light and the sun. We render Thee thanks for all the benefits which Thou hast bestowed on the whole world, especially on us whom thou hast called to the knowledge of Thy grace in Christ Jesus.
ACCEPT, O merciful Father, the good resolutions which Thou hast inspired us with by Thy Spirit. Strengthen them, we beseech Thee, with Thy continued grace, that no sudden desires, vehement inclinations, ineffectual purposes or partial performances, may lead us into a false opinion of ourselves; but that we may bring forth actually and with a constant spirit all the fruits of righteousness which are by Christ Jesus.
LIFT our affections to things above that we may have perfect contentment in well-doing and patient suffering. Free us from the cares of this world, from all distrust of Thy good providence, from repining at anything that befalls us; and enable us in everything to give thanks, believing that all things are ordered wisely, and shall work together for our good.
INTO Thy hands we commend both our souls and bodies which Thou hast mercifully preserved this day. We trust in Thy watchful Providence who givest Thy angels charge over us. Continue these holy thoughts and desires in us till we fall asleep, that we may receive the light of morning with a new joy in Thee and thankful affection to Thee.
WE desire likewise, O God, the good of the whole world. Pity the follies of mankind; deliver them from their miseries and forgive Thou all their sins. Hear the cry of every part of the creation and bring them all into the glorious liberty of the sons of God.
Hear the daily prayers of the Church. Free her from error. Let the truth as it is in Jesus prevail, and peace be in all her borders.
STRENGTHEN all Thy faithful servants. Bring back them that wander out of the way. Raise up those that are fallen. Confirm those that stand, and grant them steadily to persevere in faith, love, and obedience. Relieve and comfort all that are in distress. Let the earth bring forth her fruit in due season, and let all honest and industrious people be blest to their labours. Remember all those who have done good unto us. Grant forgiveness and charity to all our enemies, and continue goodwill among all our neighbours. Support the sick with faith and patience. Assist those who are leaving this world. Receive the souls which Thou hast redeemed; and give us all a glorious resurrection and eternal life. Our Father, etc.
Wednesday Evening
O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! In wisdom hast Thou made them all. The day is Thine; the night also is Thine; Thou hast prepared the light and the sun. We render Thee thanks for all the benefits which Thou hast bestowed on the whole world, especially on us whom thou hast called to the knowledge of Thy grace in Christ Jesus.
ACCEPT, O merciful Father, the good resolutions which Thou hast inspired us with by Thy Spirit. Strengthen them, we beseech Thee, with Thy continued grace, that no sudden desires, vehement inclinations, ineffectual purposes or partial performances, may lead us into a false opinion of ourselves; but that we may bring forth actually and with a constant spirit all the fruits of righteousness which are by Christ Jesus.
LIFT our affections to things above that we may have perfect contentment in well-doing and patient suffering. Free us from the cares of this world, from all distrust of Thy good providence, from repining at anything that befalls us; and enable us in everything to give thanks, believing that all things are ordered wisely, and shall work together for our good.
INTO Thy hands we commend both our souls and bodies which Thou hast mercifully preserved this day. We trust in Thy watchful Providence who givest Thy angels charge over us. Continue these holy thoughts and desires in us till we fall asleep, that we may receive the light of morning with a new joy in Thee and thankful affection to Thee.
WE desire likewise, O God, the good of the whole world. Pity the follies of mankind; deliver them from their miseries and forgive Thou all their sins. Hear the cry of every part of the creation and bring them all into the glorious liberty of the sons of God.
Hear the daily prayers of the Church. Free her from error. Let the truth as it is in Jesus prevail, and peace be in all her borders.
STRENGTHEN all Thy faithful servants. Bring back them that wander out of the way. Raise up those that are fallen. Confirm those that stand, and grant them steadily to persevere in faith, love, and obedience. Relieve and comfort all that are in distress. Let the earth bring forth her fruit in due season, and let all honest and industrious people be blest to their labours. Remember all those who have done good unto us. Grant forgiveness and charity to all our enemies, and continue goodwill among all our neighbours. Support the sick with faith and patience. Assist those who are leaving this world. Receive the souls which Thou hast redeemed; and give us all a glorious resurrection and eternal life. Our Father, etc.
Family Prayers for each day of the week by John Wesley
Wednesday Morning
O GOD, blessed for ever, we thank and praise Thee for all Thy benefits, for the comforts of this life, and our hope of everlasting salvation in the life to come.
THOU hast delivered Thine own Son for us all. How shalt Thou not with Him also freely give us all things?
WE depend upon Thee, especially for the grace of Thy Holy Spirit. May we feel it perpetually bearing us up, by the strength of our most holy faith, above all the temptations that may at any time assault us.
LET Thy mighty power enable us to do our duty toward Thee and toward all men, with care, diligence, zeal, and perseverance unto the end. Help us to be meek and gentle in our conversation, prudent and discreet in ordering our affairs, observant of Thy fatherly providence in everything that befalls us, thankful for Thy benefits, patient under Thy chastisements, and readily disposed for every good word and work.
DELIVER US, we beseech Thee, from worldly cares and foolish desires; from vain hopes and causeless fears; and so dispose our hearts that death itself may not be dreadful to us.
MAY our hearts be so firmly established in grace that nothing may affright us to shake our constancy.
WE commend unto Thee all mankind. Bless our Sovereign, his counselors and ministers and all employed in public business, whether spiritual or civil, that whatsoever they do may be for Thy glory and the public good.
BE gracious unto all that are near and dear to us, and keep us all in Thy fear and love. Guide us, good Lord, and govern us by the same Spirit, that we may be so united to Thee here as not to be divided when Thou art pleased to call us hence, but may together enter into Thy glory, through Jesus Christ, our blessed Lord and Saviour, who hath taught us when we pray to say: Our Father, etc
O GOD, blessed for ever, we thank and praise Thee for all Thy benefits, for the comforts of this life, and our hope of everlasting salvation in the life to come.
THOU hast delivered Thine own Son for us all. How shalt Thou not with Him also freely give us all things?
WE depend upon Thee, especially for the grace of Thy Holy Spirit. May we feel it perpetually bearing us up, by the strength of our most holy faith, above all the temptations that may at any time assault us.
LET Thy mighty power enable us to do our duty toward Thee and toward all men, with care, diligence, zeal, and perseverance unto the end. Help us to be meek and gentle in our conversation, prudent and discreet in ordering our affairs, observant of Thy fatherly providence in everything that befalls us, thankful for Thy benefits, patient under Thy chastisements, and readily disposed for every good word and work.
DELIVER US, we beseech Thee, from worldly cares and foolish desires; from vain hopes and causeless fears; and so dispose our hearts that death itself may not be dreadful to us.
MAY our hearts be so firmly established in grace that nothing may affright us to shake our constancy.
WE commend unto Thee all mankind. Bless our Sovereign, his counselors and ministers and all employed in public business, whether spiritual or civil, that whatsoever they do may be for Thy glory and the public good.
BE gracious unto all that are near and dear to us, and keep us all in Thy fear and love. Guide us, good Lord, and govern us by the same Spirit, that we may be so united to Thee here as not to be divided when Thou art pleased to call us hence, but may together enter into Thy glory, through Jesus Christ, our blessed Lord and Saviour, who hath taught us when we pray to say: Our Father, etc
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Tuesday Evening: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
Have mercy upon me, O God, after Thy great goodness; and after the multitude of Thy mercies, do away mine offences. Let Thy unspeakable mercy free me from the sins I have committed, and deliver me from the punishment I have deserved. O save me from every work of darkness and cleanse me from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, that, for the time to come, I may, with a pure heart and mind, follow Thee, the only true God.
O LAMB of God, who both by Thy example and precept didst instruct us to be meek and humble, give me grace throughout my whole life, in every thought, word, and work, to imitate Thy meekness and humility. Mortify in me the whole body of pride.
GRANT, O lord, that I may look for nothing, claim nothing, and resent nothing; that I may go through all the scenes of life, not seeking my own glory, but looking wholly unto Thee and acting wholly for Thee.
O THOU Giver of every good and perfect gift, if at any time Thou pleasest to work by my hand, teach me to discern what is my own from what is another’s, and to render unto Thee the things that are Thine. As all the good that is done on earth, Thou doest it Thyself, let me ever return to Thee all the glory. Let me, as a pure crystal, transmit all the light Thou pourest upon me.
MAKE me to remember Thee on my bed, and think upon Thee when I am waking. Thou hast preserved me from all the dangers of the day past. Under the shadow of Thy wings let me pass this night in comfort and peace.
O LAMB of God, who both by Thy example and precept didst instruct us to be meek and humble, give me grace throughout my whole life, in every thought, word, and work, to imitate Thy meekness and humility. Mortify in me the whole body of pride.
GRANT, O lord, that I may look for nothing, claim nothing, and resent nothing; that I may go through all the scenes of life, not seeking my own glory, but looking wholly unto Thee and acting wholly for Thee.
O THOU Giver of every good and perfect gift, if at any time Thou pleasest to work by my hand, teach me to discern what is my own from what is another’s, and to render unto Thee the things that are Thine. As all the good that is done on earth, Thou doest it Thyself, let me ever return to Thee all the glory. Let me, as a pure crystal, transmit all the light Thou pourest upon me.
MAKE me to remember Thee on my bed, and think upon Thee when I am waking. Thou hast preserved me from all the dangers of the day past. Under the shadow of Thy wings let me pass this night in comfort and peace.
Tuesday Morning: Personal Prayers of John Wesley
ETERNAL and merciful Father, I give Thee humble thanks (increase my thankfulness, I beseech Thee) for all the blessings, spiritual and temporal, which in the riches of Thy mercy, Thou has poured down upon me.
MAY all my thoughts, words, and works tend to Thy glory. Heal, O Father of mercies, all my infirmities; strengthen me against all follies; and forgive me all my sins.
LET me learn of Thee to be meek and lowly. Pour into me the whole spirit of humility. Fill, I beseech Thee, every part of my soul with it, and make it the constant, ruling habit of my mind, that all my other tempers may arise from it; that I may have no thoughts, no desires, no designs, but such as are the true fruit of a lowly spirit.
BLESS, O gracious Father, all the nations whom Thou hast placed upon the earth, with the knowledge of Thee, the only true God: but especially bless Thy holy catholic Church and fill it with truth and grace. Where it is corrupt, purge it; where it is in error, rectify it; where it is right, confirm it; where it is divided and rent asunder, heal the breaches thereof. Replenish all whom Thou hast called to any office therein, with truth of doctrine and innocency of life. Let their prayers be as precious incense to Thy sight, that their cries and tears for the City of God may not be in vain.
HAVE mercy upon this Kingdom and forgive the sins of this people. Turn Thee unto us, bless us, and cause Thy face to shine on our desolations.
MAY all my thoughts, words, and works tend to Thy glory. Heal, O Father of mercies, all my infirmities; strengthen me against all follies; and forgive me all my sins.
LET me learn of Thee to be meek and lowly. Pour into me the whole spirit of humility. Fill, I beseech Thee, every part of my soul with it, and make it the constant, ruling habit of my mind, that all my other tempers may arise from it; that I may have no thoughts, no desires, no designs, but such as are the true fruit of a lowly spirit.
BLESS, O gracious Father, all the nations whom Thou hast placed upon the earth, with the knowledge of Thee, the only true God: but especially bless Thy holy catholic Church and fill it with truth and grace. Where it is corrupt, purge it; where it is in error, rectify it; where it is right, confirm it; where it is divided and rent asunder, heal the breaches thereof. Replenish all whom Thou hast called to any office therein, with truth of doctrine and innocency of life. Let their prayers be as precious incense to Thy sight, that their cries and tears for the City of God may not be in vain.
HAVE mercy upon this Kingdom and forgive the sins of this people. Turn Thee unto us, bless us, and cause Thy face to shine on our desolations.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Monday Evening: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
MOST great and glorious Lord God, I desire to prostrate myself before Thy Divine majesty, under a deep sense of my unworthiness, and with sorrow, shame, and confusion of fact, to confess I have, by my manifold transgressions, deserved Thy severest visitations. Father, I have sinned against heaven and am no more worthy to be called Thy son. For Jesus Christ, His sake, graciously receive me. Accept my imperfect repentance, and send Thy spirit of adoption into my heart, that I may again be owned by Thee, call Thee Father, and share in the blessings of Thy children.
ADORED be Thy goodness for all the benefits Thou hast already from time to time bestowed on me; for the good things of this life and hope of eternal happiness. Particularly I offer to Thee my humblest thanks for Thy preservation of me this day. If I have escaped any sin, it is the effect of Thy restraining grace. If I have avoided any danger, it was Thy hand directed me. To Thy holy Name be ascribed the honour and glory. O let the sense of all Thy blessings have this effect upon me—to make me daily more diligent in devoting myself, all I am, and all I have to Thy glory.
O GOD, fill my soul with so entire a love of Thee that I may love nothing but for Thy sake and in subordination to Thy love. Give me grace to study Thy knowledge daily, that in me a zealous obedience to all Thy commands, a cheerful patience under all Thy chastisements, and a thankful resignation to all Thy disposals. Let it be the one business of my life to glorify Thee, by every word of my tongue, by every work of my hand; by professing Thy truth, and by engaging all men, so far as in me lies, to glorify and love Thee.
LET Thy unwearied and tender love to me make my love unwearied and tender to my neighbour, zealous to pray for, and to procure and promote his health and safety, ease and happiness; and active to comfort, succour and relieve all whom Thy love and their own necessities recommend to my charity. Make me peaceable and reconcilable, easy to forgive, and glad to return good for evil. Make me like Thyself, all kindness and benignity, all goodness and gentleness, all meekness and long-suffering. And, O Thou Lover of souls, raise in me a compassionate zeal to save the life, the eternal life of souls, and to reclaim the wicked and win them to Thy love.
BE pleased, O Lord, to take me, with my parents, my friends and relations, and my enemies, into Thy almighty protection this night. Refresh me with such comfortable rest that I may rise more fit for Thy service. Let me lie down with holy thoughts of Thee, and when I awake let me be still present with Thee.
SHEW mercy to the whole world, O Father of all. Let the Gospel of Thy Son run and be glorified throughout all the earth. Let it be made known to all infidels, and obeyed by all Christians. Be merciful to this Church and nation. Give unto those responsible a discerning spirit that they may make choice of fit persons to serve in Thy sacred ministry; and enable all who are ordained to any holy function diligently to feed the flocks committed to their charge, instructing them in saving knowledge, guiding them by their example, praying for and blessing them, exercising spiritual discipline in Thy Church, and duly administering Thy holy Sacraments.
MULTIPLY Thy blessings on our Sovereign, on the Royal Family, and on the Lords and Commons of this land; that they may all, according to the several talents they have received, be faithful instruments of Thy glory.
ADORED be Thy goodness for all the benefits Thou hast already from time to time bestowed on me; for the good things of this life and hope of eternal happiness. Particularly I offer to Thee my humblest thanks for Thy preservation of me this day. If I have escaped any sin, it is the effect of Thy restraining grace. If I have avoided any danger, it was Thy hand directed me. To Thy holy Name be ascribed the honour and glory. O let the sense of all Thy blessings have this effect upon me—to make me daily more diligent in devoting myself, all I am, and all I have to Thy glory.
O GOD, fill my soul with so entire a love of Thee that I may love nothing but for Thy sake and in subordination to Thy love. Give me grace to study Thy knowledge daily, that in me a zealous obedience to all Thy commands, a cheerful patience under all Thy chastisements, and a thankful resignation to all Thy disposals. Let it be the one business of my life to glorify Thee, by every word of my tongue, by every work of my hand; by professing Thy truth, and by engaging all men, so far as in me lies, to glorify and love Thee.
LET Thy unwearied and tender love to me make my love unwearied and tender to my neighbour, zealous to pray for, and to procure and promote his health and safety, ease and happiness; and active to comfort, succour and relieve all whom Thy love and their own necessities recommend to my charity. Make me peaceable and reconcilable, easy to forgive, and glad to return good for evil. Make me like Thyself, all kindness and benignity, all goodness and gentleness, all meekness and long-suffering. And, O Thou Lover of souls, raise in me a compassionate zeal to save the life, the eternal life of souls, and to reclaim the wicked and win them to Thy love.
BE pleased, O Lord, to take me, with my parents, my friends and relations, and my enemies, into Thy almighty protection this night. Refresh me with such comfortable rest that I may rise more fit for Thy service. Let me lie down with holy thoughts of Thee, and when I awake let me be still present with Thee.
SHEW mercy to the whole world, O Father of all. Let the Gospel of Thy Son run and be glorified throughout all the earth. Let it be made known to all infidels, and obeyed by all Christians. Be merciful to this Church and nation. Give unto those responsible a discerning spirit that they may make choice of fit persons to serve in Thy sacred ministry; and enable all who are ordained to any holy function diligently to feed the flocks committed to their charge, instructing them in saving knowledge, guiding them by their example, praying for and blessing them, exercising spiritual discipline in Thy Church, and duly administering Thy holy Sacraments.
MULTIPLY Thy blessings on our Sovereign, on the Royal Family, and on the Lords and Commons of this land; that they may all, according to the several talents they have received, be faithful instruments of Thy glory.
Monday Morning: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
BLESSED be Thy love for giving Thy Son to die for our sins, for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory.
Blessed be Thy love for all the temporal benefits which Thou hast with a liberal hand poured out upon me; for my health and strength, food and raiment, and all other necessities with which Thou hast provided Thy sinful servant.
I also bless Thee that, after all my refusals of Thy grace, Thou still hast patience with me, hast preserved me this night and given me yet another day to renew and perfect my repentance.
PARDON, good Lord, all my former sins, and make me every day more zealous and diligent to improve every opportunity of building up my soul in Thy faith, love, and obedience.
Make Thyself always present to my mind, and let Thy love fill and rule my soul in all those places, companies, and employments, to which Thou callest me this day.
In all my passage through this world, suffer not my heart to be set upon it, but always fix my single eye and my undivided affections on the prize of my high calling.
This one thing let me do: let me so press toward this, as to make all things else minister unto it; and be careful so to use them, as thereby to fit my soul for that pure bliss which Thou hast prepared for those that love Thee.
O THOU who art good and doest good, who extendest Thy loving-kindness to all mankind, the work of Thine hands, Thine image, capable of knowing and loving Thee eternally, suffer me to exclude none, O Lord, from my charity, who are the objects of Thy mercy, but let me treat all my neighbours with that tender care which is due to Thy servants and to Thy children.
LET no temptation expose me to ingratitude or make me forfeit Thy loving-kindness which is better than life itself, but grant that I may assist all my brethren with my prayers where I cannot reach them with actual services. Make me zealous to embrace all occasions that may minister to their happiness. Let Thy love to me be the pattern of my love to them.
EXTEND Thy mercy to all men and let them become Thy faithful servants. Let all Christians live up to the holy religion which they profess. Be intreated for us, good Lord. Be glorified by our reformation and not by our destruction. Be favourable to Thy people. Give us grace to put a period to our provocations. Defend our Church from schism, heresy, and sacrilege, and the King from all treasons and conspiracies. Bless the clergy with apostolical grace, exemplary lives, and sound doctrine. Grant to the Cabinet wisdom from above, to all magistrates integrity and zeal, to the universities quietness and industry, and to the Lords and Commons, pious, peaceable, and loyal hearts.
PRESERVE my parents, friends and relations, and all mankind, in their souls and bodies. Forgive mine enemies and in Thy due time make them kindly affectioned toward me. Have mercy on all who are afflicted in mind, body, or estate. Give them patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of all their afflictions. And grant that we, with those who are already dead in Thy faith and fear, may together partake of a joyful resurrection, through Him who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.
Blessed be Thy love for all the temporal benefits which Thou hast with a liberal hand poured out upon me; for my health and strength, food and raiment, and all other necessities with which Thou hast provided Thy sinful servant.
I also bless Thee that, after all my refusals of Thy grace, Thou still hast patience with me, hast preserved me this night and given me yet another day to renew and perfect my repentance.
PARDON, good Lord, all my former sins, and make me every day more zealous and diligent to improve every opportunity of building up my soul in Thy faith, love, and obedience.
Make Thyself always present to my mind, and let Thy love fill and rule my soul in all those places, companies, and employments, to which Thou callest me this day.
In all my passage through this world, suffer not my heart to be set upon it, but always fix my single eye and my undivided affections on the prize of my high calling.
This one thing let me do: let me so press toward this, as to make all things else minister unto it; and be careful so to use them, as thereby to fit my soul for that pure bliss which Thou hast prepared for those that love Thee.
O THOU who art good and doest good, who extendest Thy loving-kindness to all mankind, the work of Thine hands, Thine image, capable of knowing and loving Thee eternally, suffer me to exclude none, O Lord, from my charity, who are the objects of Thy mercy, but let me treat all my neighbours with that tender care which is due to Thy servants and to Thy children.
LET no temptation expose me to ingratitude or make me forfeit Thy loving-kindness which is better than life itself, but grant that I may assist all my brethren with my prayers where I cannot reach them with actual services. Make me zealous to embrace all occasions that may minister to their happiness. Let Thy love to me be the pattern of my love to them.
EXTEND Thy mercy to all men and let them become Thy faithful servants. Let all Christians live up to the holy religion which they profess. Be intreated for us, good Lord. Be glorified by our reformation and not by our destruction. Be favourable to Thy people. Give us grace to put a period to our provocations. Defend our Church from schism, heresy, and sacrilege, and the King from all treasons and conspiracies. Bless the clergy with apostolical grace, exemplary lives, and sound doctrine. Grant to the Cabinet wisdom from above, to all magistrates integrity and zeal, to the universities quietness and industry, and to the Lords and Commons, pious, peaceable, and loyal hearts.
PRESERVE my parents, friends and relations, and all mankind, in their souls and bodies. Forgive mine enemies and in Thy due time make them kindly affectioned toward me. Have mercy on all who are afflicted in mind, body, or estate. Give them patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of all their afflictions. And grant that we, with those who are already dead in Thy faith and fear, may together partake of a joyful resurrection, through Him who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Sunday Evening: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
I MAGNIFY Thee for granting me to be born in Thy Church, and of religious parents; for washing me in Thy doctrine of truth and holiness; for sustaining me by Thy gracious Providence, and guiding me by Thy blessed Spirit; and for so often feeding my soul with Thy most precious Body and Blood, those pledges of love and sure conveyances of strength and comfort. O be gracious unto all of us whom thou hast this day or at any time admitted to Thy holy table. Strengthen our hearts in Thy ways against all our temptations, and make us more than conquerors in Thy love.
DELIVER me, I beseech Thee, from all violent passions. Let none of them find a way into my heart, but let me ever possess my soul in meekness. Do Thou reign in my breast; let me ever be Thy servant and love Thee with all my heart.
DELIVER me, O God, from too intense and application to even necessary business. I know the narrowness of my heart, and that an eager attention to earthly things leaves it no room for the things of heaven. Teach me to go through all my employments with so truly disengaged a heart that I may still see Thee in all things; and that I may never impair that liberty of spirit which is necessary for the love of Thee.
DELIVER me, O God, from a slothful mind, from all lukewarmness and all dejection of spirit. I know these cannot but deaden my love to Thee; mercifully free my heart from them and give me a lively, zealous, active, and cheerful spirit, that I may vigorously perform whatever Thou commandest, and be ever ardent to obey in all things Thy holy love.
DELIVER me, O God, from all idolatrous love of any creature. Preserve me from all such blind affection. Be Thou a guard to all my desires. And be Thou my security, that I may never open my heart to anything but out of love to Thee.
ABOVE all, deliver me from all idolatrous self-love. My choice and desire is to love myself, as all other creatures, in and for Thee. O let Thy almighty arm so stablish, strengthen, and settle me, that Thou mayest ever be the ground and pillar of all my love.
LET Thy glorious name be duly honoured by all creatures which Thou hast made. Let Thy infinite goodness and greatness be ever adored by angels and men. May Thy Church be protected from all the powers of darkness. Vouchsafe to all who call themselves by Thy Name on short glimpse of Thy goodness. Send forth Thy blessed Spirit into the midst of these sinful nations, and make us a holy people. Stir up the heart of our Sovereign, and of all whom Thou hast set over us, that they may be instruments in Thy hand of promoting this good work.
THOU Shepherd of Israel, vouchsafe to receive me this night and ever into Thy protection. Accept my poor services, and pardon the sinfulness of these and all my holy duties. Let it be Thy good pleasure to put a period to sin and misery, to infirmity and death, and hasten Thy Kingdom; that we, with all that wait for Thy salvation, may eternally love and praise Thee, O God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, throughout all ages, world without end.
DELIVER me, I beseech Thee, from all violent passions. Let none of them find a way into my heart, but let me ever possess my soul in meekness. Do Thou reign in my breast; let me ever be Thy servant and love Thee with all my heart.
DELIVER me, O God, from too intense and application to even necessary business. I know the narrowness of my heart, and that an eager attention to earthly things leaves it no room for the things of heaven. Teach me to go through all my employments with so truly disengaged a heart that I may still see Thee in all things; and that I may never impair that liberty of spirit which is necessary for the love of Thee.
DELIVER me, O God, from a slothful mind, from all lukewarmness and all dejection of spirit. I know these cannot but deaden my love to Thee; mercifully free my heart from them and give me a lively, zealous, active, and cheerful spirit, that I may vigorously perform whatever Thou commandest, and be ever ardent to obey in all things Thy holy love.
DELIVER me, O God, from all idolatrous love of any creature. Preserve me from all such blind affection. Be Thou a guard to all my desires. And be Thou my security, that I may never open my heart to anything but out of love to Thee.
ABOVE all, deliver me from all idolatrous self-love. My choice and desire is to love myself, as all other creatures, in and for Thee. O let Thy almighty arm so stablish, strengthen, and settle me, that Thou mayest ever be the ground and pillar of all my love.
LET Thy glorious name be duly honoured by all creatures which Thou hast made. Let Thy infinite goodness and greatness be ever adored by angels and men. May Thy Church be protected from all the powers of darkness. Vouchsafe to all who call themselves by Thy Name on short glimpse of Thy goodness. Send forth Thy blessed Spirit into the midst of these sinful nations, and make us a holy people. Stir up the heart of our Sovereign, and of all whom Thou hast set over us, that they may be instruments in Thy hand of promoting this good work.
THOU Shepherd of Israel, vouchsafe to receive me this night and ever into Thy protection. Accept my poor services, and pardon the sinfulness of these and all my holy duties. Let it be Thy good pleasure to put a period to sin and misery, to infirmity and death, and hasten Thy Kingdom; that we, with all that wait for Thy salvation, may eternally love and praise Thee, O God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, throughout all ages, world without end.
Sunday Morning: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
Almighty God, Father of all mercies, I, Thy unworthy servant, desire to present myself, with all humility, before Thee, to offer my morning sacrifice of love and thanksgiving.
GLORY be to Thee, O most adorable Father, who after Thou hadst finished the work of creation, enteredst into Thy eternal rest.
Glory be to Thee, O holy Jesus, who having through the eternal Spirit offered Thyself a full, perfect and sufficient sacrifice for the sins of the whole world, didst rise again the third day from the dead, and hadst all power given Thee both in heaven and on earth.
Glory be to Thee, O blessed Spirit, who proceeding from the Father and the Son, didst come down in fiery tongues on the Apostles, on the first day of the week, and didst enable them to preach the glad tidings of salvation to a sinful world.
Glory be to Thee, O holy undivided Trinity, for jointly concurring in the great work of our redemption, and restoring us again to the glorious liberty of the sons of God.
Glory be to Thee, who in compassion to human weakness has appointed a solemn day for the remembrance of Thy inestimable benefits.
LET the inspiration of the Holy Spirit prevent and assist me in all the duties of this Thy sacred day, that my wandering thoughts may all be fixed on Thee, my tumultuous affections composed, and my flat and cold desires quickened into fervent longings and thirstings after Thee.
Let me join in the prayers and praises of Thy Church with ardent and heavenly affection, hear Thy Word with earnest attention and a fixed resolution to obey it. And when I approach Thy altar, pour into my heart humility, faith, hope, love, and all those holy dispositions which become the solemn remembrance of a crucified Saviour.
Let me employ this whole day to the ends for which it was ordained, in works of necessity and mercy, in prayer, praise, and meditation; and let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be always acceptable in Thy sight.
GIVE Thy strength unto Thy servant, that Thy love may fill my heart, and be the motive of all the use I make of my understanding, my affections my senses, my health, my time, and whatever other talents I have received from Thee. Let this, O God, rule my heart without a rival; let it dispose all my thoughts, words and works; thus only can I fulfil my duty and Thy command, of loving Thee with all my heart, and mind, and soul, and strength.
Take Thou the full possession of my heart, raise there Thy throne, and command there as Thou dost in heaven. Being created by Thee, let me live to Thee. Being created for Thee, let me ever act for Thy glory. Being redeemed by Thee, let me render unto Thee what is Thine, and let my spirit ever cleave to Thee alone.
LET the prayers and sacrifices of Thy holy Church offered unto Thee this day, be graciously accepted. Clothe thy priests with righteousness, and pardon all Thy people who are not prepared according to the preparation of the sanctuary. Prosper all those who are sincerely engaged in propagating or promoting Thy faith and love[especially----}. Give Thy Son the heathen for His inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for His possession, that from the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same, Thy Name may be great among the Gentiles
GLORY be to Thee, O most adorable Father, who after Thou hadst finished the work of creation, enteredst into Thy eternal rest.
Glory be to Thee, O holy Jesus, who having through the eternal Spirit offered Thyself a full, perfect and sufficient sacrifice for the sins of the whole world, didst rise again the third day from the dead, and hadst all power given Thee both in heaven and on earth.
Glory be to Thee, O blessed Spirit, who proceeding from the Father and the Son, didst come down in fiery tongues on the Apostles, on the first day of the week, and didst enable them to preach the glad tidings of salvation to a sinful world.
Glory be to Thee, O holy undivided Trinity, for jointly concurring in the great work of our redemption, and restoring us again to the glorious liberty of the sons of God.
Glory be to Thee, who in compassion to human weakness has appointed a solemn day for the remembrance of Thy inestimable benefits.
LET the inspiration of the Holy Spirit prevent and assist me in all the duties of this Thy sacred day, that my wandering thoughts may all be fixed on Thee, my tumultuous affections composed, and my flat and cold desires quickened into fervent longings and thirstings after Thee.
Let me join in the prayers and praises of Thy Church with ardent and heavenly affection, hear Thy Word with earnest attention and a fixed resolution to obey it. And when I approach Thy altar, pour into my heart humility, faith, hope, love, and all those holy dispositions which become the solemn remembrance of a crucified Saviour.
Let me employ this whole day to the ends for which it was ordained, in works of necessity and mercy, in prayer, praise, and meditation; and let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be always acceptable in Thy sight.
GIVE Thy strength unto Thy servant, that Thy love may fill my heart, and be the motive of all the use I make of my understanding, my affections my senses, my health, my time, and whatever other talents I have received from Thee. Let this, O God, rule my heart without a rival; let it dispose all my thoughts, words and works; thus only can I fulfil my duty and Thy command, of loving Thee with all my heart, and mind, and soul, and strength.
Take Thou the full possession of my heart, raise there Thy throne, and command there as Thou dost in heaven. Being created by Thee, let me live to Thee. Being created for Thee, let me ever act for Thy glory. Being redeemed by Thee, let me render unto Thee what is Thine, and let my spirit ever cleave to Thee alone.
LET the prayers and sacrifices of Thy holy Church offered unto Thee this day, be graciously accepted. Clothe thy priests with righteousness, and pardon all Thy people who are not prepared according to the preparation of the sanctuary. Prosper all those who are sincerely engaged in propagating or promoting Thy faith and love[especially----}. Give Thy Son the heathen for His inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for His possession, that from the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same, Thy Name may be great among the Gentiles
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Wednesday Evening: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
Wednesday Evening: Personal Prayer of John Wesley
O Lord, my Judge, Thou art also my Redeemer.
I have sinned, but Thou, O Blessed Jesus, art my Advocate.
Gracious Lord, spare Thy servant whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy most precious blood.
Deliver me from the power of sin and preserve me from the punishment of it.
THOU whose mercy is without measure, whose goodness is unspeakable, despise not Thy returning servant who earnestly begs for pardon and reconciliation. Grant me the forgiveness of what is past and a perfect repentance of all my sins, that for the time to come I may with a pure spirit do Thy will, O God, walking humbly with Thee, conversing charitably with all men, possessing my soul in resignation and holiness, and my body in sanctification and honour.
THOU great Shepard of souls, bring home into Thy fold all that are gone astray. Preserve Thy Church from all heresy and schism, from all that persecute or oppose the truth; and give unto Thy ministers wisdom and holiness and the powerful aid of Thy blessed Spirit.
ADVANCE the just interests and preserve the persons of all Christian princes, especially our Sovereign. Give to him and his royal family, and to all his subjects in their several stations, particularly those that are in authority among them, grace to do Thy will in this world, and eternal glory in the world to come.
BLESS, O Lord, all our nurseries of piety and schools of learning, that they may devote all their studies to Thy glory. Have mercy on all that are in affliction. Remember the poor and needy, the widow and fatherless, the friendless and oppressed. Heal the sick and languishing, and when Thou seest it expedient for them, receive them into Thine everlasting kingdom.
I PRAISE Thee for Thy continual preservation of me, for Thy fatherly protection over me this day, for all the comforts with which Thou hast surrounded me, spiritual and temporal, particularly for leave now to pray unto Thee. Accept my poor services; pardon the sinfulness of this and all my holy duties; and bless me, my friends and relations, my benefactors and enemies, this night and for ever, with the blessings of Thy children.
THESE my prayers, O most merciful Father, vouchsafe to hear, through the mediation of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, who with Thee and the Holy Ghost is worshipped and glorified, in all Churches of the saints, one God, blessed for ever
O Lord, my Judge, Thou art also my Redeemer.
I have sinned, but Thou, O Blessed Jesus, art my Advocate.
Gracious Lord, spare Thy servant whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy most precious blood.
Deliver me from the power of sin and preserve me from the punishment of it.
THOU whose mercy is without measure, whose goodness is unspeakable, despise not Thy returning servant who earnestly begs for pardon and reconciliation. Grant me the forgiveness of what is past and a perfect repentance of all my sins, that for the time to come I may with a pure spirit do Thy will, O God, walking humbly with Thee, conversing charitably with all men, possessing my soul in resignation and holiness, and my body in sanctification and honour.
THOU great Shepard of souls, bring home into Thy fold all that are gone astray. Preserve Thy Church from all heresy and schism, from all that persecute or oppose the truth; and give unto Thy ministers wisdom and holiness and the powerful aid of Thy blessed Spirit.
ADVANCE the just interests and preserve the persons of all Christian princes, especially our Sovereign. Give to him and his royal family, and to all his subjects in their several stations, particularly those that are in authority among them, grace to do Thy will in this world, and eternal glory in the world to come.
BLESS, O Lord, all our nurseries of piety and schools of learning, that they may devote all their studies to Thy glory. Have mercy on all that are in affliction. Remember the poor and needy, the widow and fatherless, the friendless and oppressed. Heal the sick and languishing, and when Thou seest it expedient for them, receive them into Thine everlasting kingdom.
I PRAISE Thee for Thy continual preservation of me, for Thy fatherly protection over me this day, for all the comforts with which Thou hast surrounded me, spiritual and temporal, particularly for leave now to pray unto Thee. Accept my poor services; pardon the sinfulness of this and all my holy duties; and bless me, my friends and relations, my benefactors and enemies, this night and for ever, with the blessings of Thy children.
THESE my prayers, O most merciful Father, vouchsafe to hear, through the mediation of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, who with Thee and the Holy Ghost is worshipped and glorified, in all Churches of the saints, one God, blessed for ever
Wednesday Morning Personal Prayer of John WesleyWednesday Morning: John Wesley Personal Prayer
Wednesday Morning: John Wesley Personal Prayer
O Thou who dwellest in the light which no man can approach, in whose presence there is no night, in the light of whose countenance there is perpetual day, I, Thy sinful servant , whom Thou hast preserved this night, who live by Thy power this day, bless and glorify Thee, for the defence of Thy almighty Providence, and humbly pray Thee that this and all my days may be wholly devoted to Thy service. Send Thy Holy Spirit to be the Guide of my ways and the Sanctifier of my soul and body. Save, defend, and build me up in Thy fear and love. Give unto me the light of Thy countenance, peace from heaven, and the salvation of my soul in the day of the Lord Jesus.
O THOU who art the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Thou hast said: no man can follow Thee unless he renounce himself. Thou hast laid nothing upon us but what the design of Thy love made necessary for us. May I ever renounce my own, and do Thy blessed will in all things.
O THOU whose whole life did cry aloud. ‘Father , not mine, but Thy will be done’, give me grace to walk after Thy pattern, to tread in Thy steps.
Strengthen my soul that I may be temperate in all things; that I may never use any of Thy creatures but in order to some end Thou commandest me to pursue, and in that measure and manner which most conduces to it. Let me never gratify any desire which has not Thee for its ultimate object. Let me never gratify any desire which has not Thee for its ultimate object. Let me ever abstain from all pleasures which do not prepare me for taking pleasure in Thee, as knowing that all such war against the soul, and tend to alienate it from Thee. Save me from ever indulging either the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eye, or the pride of life. Set a watch, O Lord, over my senses and appetites, my passions and understanding, that I may resolutely deny them every gratification which has no tendency to Thy glory. O train me up in this good way that when I am old I may not depart from it.
Hear also my prayers for all mankind, and guide their feet into the way of peace: for Thy holy church, let her live by Thy Spirit and reign in Thy glory. Remember that branch of it which Thou has planted in these Kingdoms, especially the steward of Thy holy mysteries: give them such zeal, diligence, and wisdom, that they may save both themselves and those that hear them.
Let these my prayers, O Lord, find access to the Throne of Grace, through the Son of Thy love, Jesus Christ the righteous; to whom, with Thee, O Father, in the unity of the Spirit, be all love and obedience, now and for ever.
O Thou who dwellest in the light which no man can approach, in whose presence there is no night, in the light of whose countenance there is perpetual day, I, Thy sinful servant , whom Thou hast preserved this night, who live by Thy power this day, bless and glorify Thee, for the defence of Thy almighty Providence, and humbly pray Thee that this and all my days may be wholly devoted to Thy service. Send Thy Holy Spirit to be the Guide of my ways and the Sanctifier of my soul and body. Save, defend, and build me up in Thy fear and love. Give unto me the light of Thy countenance, peace from heaven, and the salvation of my soul in the day of the Lord Jesus.
O THOU who art the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Thou hast said: no man can follow Thee unless he renounce himself. Thou hast laid nothing upon us but what the design of Thy love made necessary for us. May I ever renounce my own, and do Thy blessed will in all things.
O THOU whose whole life did cry aloud. ‘Father , not mine, but Thy will be done’, give me grace to walk after Thy pattern, to tread in Thy steps.
Strengthen my soul that I may be temperate in all things; that I may never use any of Thy creatures but in order to some end Thou commandest me to pursue, and in that measure and manner which most conduces to it. Let me never gratify any desire which has not Thee for its ultimate object. Let me never gratify any desire which has not Thee for its ultimate object. Let me ever abstain from all pleasures which do not prepare me for taking pleasure in Thee, as knowing that all such war against the soul, and tend to alienate it from Thee. Save me from ever indulging either the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eye, or the pride of life. Set a watch, O Lord, over my senses and appetites, my passions and understanding, that I may resolutely deny them every gratification which has no tendency to Thy glory. O train me up in this good way that when I am old I may not depart from it.
Hear also my prayers for all mankind, and guide their feet into the way of peace: for Thy holy church, let her live by Thy Spirit and reign in Thy glory. Remember that branch of it which Thou has planted in these Kingdoms, especially the steward of Thy holy mysteries: give them such zeal, diligence, and wisdom, that they may save both themselves and those that hear them.
Let these my prayers, O Lord, find access to the Throne of Grace, through the Son of Thy love, Jesus Christ the righteous; to whom, with Thee, O Father, in the unity of the Spirit, be all love and obedience, now and for ever.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Friday Morning Personal Prayer of John Wesley
Mercifully this day watch over me with the eyes of Thy mercy. Direct my soul and body according to the rule of Thy will, and fill my heart with Thy Holy Spirit, that I may pass this day and all the rest of my days to Thy glory.
O Saviour of the world, God of God, Light of Light, Thou that art the brightness of Thy Father’s glory, the express image of His Person, Thou that hast destroyed the power of the devil, that hast overcome death, that sitteth at the right hand of the Father, Thou that wilt speedily come down in Thy Father’s glory to judge all men according to their works: be Thou my Light and my Peace. Destroy the power of the devil in me and make me a new creature.
O THOU who didst cast seven devils out of Mary Magdalene, cast out of my heart all corrupt affections.
O Thou who didst raise Lazarus from the dead, raise me from the death of sin.
Thou who didst cleanse the lepers, heal the sick and give sight to the blind, heal the diseases of my soul, open my eyes and fix them singly on the prize of my high calling, and cleanse my heart from every desire but that of advancing Thy glory.
O Jesus, poor and abject, unknown and despised, have mercy upon me, and let me not be ashamed to follow Thee.
O Jesus, hated, calumniated, and persecuted, have mercy upon me, and let me not be afraid to come after Thee.
O Jesus, betrayed and sold at a vile price, have mercy upon me, and make me content to be as my Master.
O Jesus, blasphemed, accused, and wrongfully condemned, have mercy upon me, and teach me to endure the contradiction of sinners.
O Jesus, clothed with a habit of reproach and shame, have mercy upon me, and let me not seek my own glory.
O Jesus, insulted, mocked, and spit upon, have mercy upon me, and let me run with patience the race set before me.
O Jesus, dragged to the pillar, scourged, and bathed in blood, have mercy upon me, and let me not faint in fiery trial.
O Jesus, crowned with thorns and hailed in derision;
O Jesus, burdened with our sins and the curses of the people;
O Jesus, affronted, outraged, buffeted, overwhelmed with injuries, griefs, and humiliations;
O Jesus, hanging on the accursed Tree, bowing the head, giving up the ghost, have mercy upon me, and conform my whole soul to Thy holy, humble, suffering Spirit.
O THOU who for the love of me hast undergone such an infinity of sufferings and humiliations, let me be wholly emptied of myself, that I may rejoice to take up my cross daily and follow Thee.
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, I, miserable sinner, humbly acknowledge that I am altogether unworthy to pray for myself. But since Thou has commanded me to make prayers and intercessions for all men, in obedience to Thy command, and confidence of Thy unlimited goodness, I commend to Thy mercy the wants and necessities of all mankind.
Hear, O merciful Father, my supplications, and that for the sake of Thy Son, Jesus, and bring us, with all those who have pleased Thee from the beginning of the world, into the glories of Thy Son’s Kingdom; to whom with Thee and the Holy Ghost, be all praise for ever and ever.
O Saviour of the world, God of God, Light of Light, Thou that art the brightness of Thy Father’s glory, the express image of His Person, Thou that hast destroyed the power of the devil, that hast overcome death, that sitteth at the right hand of the Father, Thou that wilt speedily come down in Thy Father’s glory to judge all men according to their works: be Thou my Light and my Peace. Destroy the power of the devil in me and make me a new creature.
O THOU who didst cast seven devils out of Mary Magdalene, cast out of my heart all corrupt affections.
O Thou who didst raise Lazarus from the dead, raise me from the death of sin.
Thou who didst cleanse the lepers, heal the sick and give sight to the blind, heal the diseases of my soul, open my eyes and fix them singly on the prize of my high calling, and cleanse my heart from every desire but that of advancing Thy glory.
O Jesus, poor and abject, unknown and despised, have mercy upon me, and let me not be ashamed to follow Thee.
O Jesus, hated, calumniated, and persecuted, have mercy upon me, and let me not be afraid to come after Thee.
O Jesus, betrayed and sold at a vile price, have mercy upon me, and make me content to be as my Master.
O Jesus, blasphemed, accused, and wrongfully condemned, have mercy upon me, and teach me to endure the contradiction of sinners.
O Jesus, clothed with a habit of reproach and shame, have mercy upon me, and let me not seek my own glory.
O Jesus, insulted, mocked, and spit upon, have mercy upon me, and let me run with patience the race set before me.
O Jesus, dragged to the pillar, scourged, and bathed in blood, have mercy upon me, and let me not faint in fiery trial.
O Jesus, crowned with thorns and hailed in derision;
O Jesus, burdened with our sins and the curses of the people;
O Jesus, affronted, outraged, buffeted, overwhelmed with injuries, griefs, and humiliations;
O Jesus, hanging on the accursed Tree, bowing the head, giving up the ghost, have mercy upon me, and conform my whole soul to Thy holy, humble, suffering Spirit.
O THOU who for the love of me hast undergone such an infinity of sufferings and humiliations, let me be wholly emptied of myself, that I may rejoice to take up my cross daily and follow Thee.
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, I, miserable sinner, humbly acknowledge that I am altogether unworthy to pray for myself. But since Thou has commanded me to make prayers and intercessions for all men, in obedience to Thy command, and confidence of Thy unlimited goodness, I commend to Thy mercy the wants and necessities of all mankind.
Hear, O merciful Father, my supplications, and that for the sake of Thy Son, Jesus, and bring us, with all those who have pleased Thee from the beginning of the world, into the glories of Thy Son’s Kingdom; to whom with Thee and the Holy Ghost, be all praise for ever and ever.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Gregory the Theologian
Gregory the Theologian said: "God demands the following three virtues from every man who is baptized: for the soul, true faith; for the body, chastity; for the tongue, truth.... It is more essential to remember God than to breathe... you must think of God more often than you breathe."
Thursday evening Personal Prayer of John Wesley
Thursday Evening
My Lord and my God, thou seest my heart, and my desires are not hid from Thee.
I am ashamed when I think how long I have lived a stranger to Thee.
Lord, hear me, help me and show mercy unto me, for Jesus Christ’s sake.
To Thee, O God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, I give up myself entirely: may I no longer serve myself, but Thee, all the days of my life.
I give Thee my understanding: may it be my only care to know Thee, Thy perfections, Thy works, and Thy will.
I give Thee my will. Whatsoever Thou willest may I will and that only. May I will Thy glory in all things.
I give Thee my affections. Do thou dispose of them all. Be Thou my love, my fear, my joy. And may nothing have any share in them but with respect to Thee and for Thy sake. What Thou lovest may I love; what thou hatest may I hate; and that in such measure as Thou art pleased to prescribe me.
I give Thee my body. My I glorify Thee with it and preserve it holy, fit for Thee, O God, to dwell in. May I neither indulge it nor use too much rigour toward it. but keep it, as far as in me lies, healthy, vigorous, and active, and fit to do Thee all manner of service, which Thou shalt call for.
I give Thee all my worldly goods. May I prize them and use them only for Thee. May I faithfully restore to Thee, in Thy poor, all Thou hast entrusted me with, above the necessities of my life, and be content to part with them too, whenever Thou shalt require them too, whenever Thou shalt require them at my hands.
I give Thee my credit and reputation. May I never value them but only in respect of Thee; nor endeavor to maintain them but as they may do Thee service and advance Thy honour in the world.
I give myself and my all. Let me look upon myself to be nothing, and to have nothing, out of Thee. Be Thou the sole desposer and governor of myself and all I have. Be Thou my portion and my all.
O God, when hearafter I shall be tempted to break this solemn engagement, when I shall be prest to conform to the world, and to the company and customs that surround me, may my answer be: I am not my own. I am not for myself, nor for the world, but for my God. I will give unto God the things which are God’s. God be merciful to me a sinner.
Have mercy, O Father of the spirits of all flesh, on all mankind. Convert all men to Thy truth. Bless the Church, heal its branches and establish it in truth and peace. Preserve and defend all Christian princes, especially our Sovereign and his family. Be merciful to this nation. Bless the clergy with soundness of doctrine and purity of life, the Government with wisdom, the magistrates with integrity and zeal, and the people with loyalty. Bless the universities with learning and holiness, that they may afford a constant supply of men to do Thee service.
Shower down Thy graces on all my relations, on all my friends and all that belong to this family. Comfort and relieve those that labour under any difficulties of body or mind; especially those who suffer for the testimony of a good conscience. And grant us all, together with Thy whole Church, an entrance into Thine everlasting Kingdom, through Jesus Christ, to whom with Thee and the blessed Spirit, Three Persons and One God, be ascribed all majesty, dominion, and power, now and for evermore.
My Lord and my God, thou seest my heart, and my desires are not hid from Thee.
I am ashamed when I think how long I have lived a stranger to Thee.
Lord, hear me, help me and show mercy unto me, for Jesus Christ’s sake.
To Thee, O God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, I give up myself entirely: may I no longer serve myself, but Thee, all the days of my life.
I give Thee my understanding: may it be my only care to know Thee, Thy perfections, Thy works, and Thy will.
I give Thee my will. Whatsoever Thou willest may I will and that only. May I will Thy glory in all things.
I give Thee my affections. Do thou dispose of them all. Be Thou my love, my fear, my joy. And may nothing have any share in them but with respect to Thee and for Thy sake. What Thou lovest may I love; what thou hatest may I hate; and that in such measure as Thou art pleased to prescribe me.
I give Thee my body. My I glorify Thee with it and preserve it holy, fit for Thee, O God, to dwell in. May I neither indulge it nor use too much rigour toward it. but keep it, as far as in me lies, healthy, vigorous, and active, and fit to do Thee all manner of service, which Thou shalt call for.
I give Thee all my worldly goods. May I prize them and use them only for Thee. May I faithfully restore to Thee, in Thy poor, all Thou hast entrusted me with, above the necessities of my life, and be content to part with them too, whenever Thou shalt require them too, whenever Thou shalt require them at my hands.
I give Thee my credit and reputation. May I never value them but only in respect of Thee; nor endeavor to maintain them but as they may do Thee service and advance Thy honour in the world.
I give myself and my all. Let me look upon myself to be nothing, and to have nothing, out of Thee. Be Thou the sole desposer and governor of myself and all I have. Be Thou my portion and my all.
O God, when hearafter I shall be tempted to break this solemn engagement, when I shall be prest to conform to the world, and to the company and customs that surround me, may my answer be: I am not my own. I am not for myself, nor for the world, but for my God. I will give unto God the things which are God’s. God be merciful to me a sinner.
Have mercy, O Father of the spirits of all flesh, on all mankind. Convert all men to Thy truth. Bless the Church, heal its branches and establish it in truth and peace. Preserve and defend all Christian princes, especially our Sovereign and his family. Be merciful to this nation. Bless the clergy with soundness of doctrine and purity of life, the Government with wisdom, the magistrates with integrity and zeal, and the people with loyalty. Bless the universities with learning and holiness, that they may afford a constant supply of men to do Thee service.
Shower down Thy graces on all my relations, on all my friends and all that belong to this family. Comfort and relieve those that labour under any difficulties of body or mind; especially those who suffer for the testimony of a good conscience. And grant us all, together with Thy whole Church, an entrance into Thine everlasting Kingdom, through Jesus Christ, to whom with Thee and the blessed Spirit, Three Persons and One God, be ascribed all majesty, dominion, and power, now and for evermore.
Thursday Morning Personal Prayer of John Wesley
Eternal God, my sovereign Lord, I acknowledge all I am, all I have is Thine. Give me such a sense of Thy infinite goodness that I may return to Thee all possible love and obedience.
I humbly and heartily thank Thee for all the favours Thou has bestowed on me: for creating me after Thine own image, for daily preserving me by Thy good Providence, for redeeming me by the death of Thy blessed Son, and for the assistance of Thy Holy Spirit; for causing me to be born in a Christian country, for blessing me with plentiful means of salvation, with religious parents and friends, and frequent returns of Thy ever blessed Sacrament. I also thank Thee for Thy temporal blessings; for the preservation of me this night, for my health, strength, food, raiment, and all the other comforts and necessities of life.
And, O Father of mercies, I most humbly implore forgiveness of all my sins. Lo, I come now to do Thy will alone; and am resolved by Thy assistance to have no longer any choice of my own, but with singleness of heart to obey Th.y good pleasure. Father, not my will, but Thine be done, in all my thoughts, words, and actions.
O THOU all-sufficient God of angels and men, who art above all, and through all, and in all; from whom, by whom, and in whom are all things; in whom we live and move and have our being—may my will be as entirely and continually derived from Thine, as my being and happiness are.
O SOVEREIGN GOODNESS, O mighty Wisdom, Thou doest order and govern all things, even the most minute, even the most noxious, to Thy glory and the good of those that love Thee. O Father of the families of heaven and earth, Thou so disposest all events as may best magnify Thy goodness to all Thy children, especially those whose eyes wait upon Thee. I most humbly beseech Thee, touch me to adore all Thy ways, though I cannot comprehend them. Teach me to be glad that Thou art King, and to give Thee thanks for all things that befall me. And for that which is to come, give me Thy grace to do in all things what pleaseth Thee, and then with an absolute submission to Thy wisdom, to leave the issues of them in Thy hand.
Help me with Thy grace that whatsoever I shall do or suffer this day may tend to Thy glory. Keep me in love to Thee and to all men. Do Thou direct my paths and teach me to set thee always before me. Let not the things of this life, or my manifold concerns therein, alienate any part of my affections from Thee, nor let me ever pursue or regard them but for Thee and in obedience to Thy will.
EXTEND, O Lord, Thy pity to the whole race of mankind. Enlighten the Gentiles with Thy truth and bring into Thy flock Thy ancient people the Jews. Be gracious to Thy Church, and grant that she may always preserve that doctrine and discipline which Thou hast delivered to her. Grant that all of this nation may, whatsoever they do, do all to Thy glory. Bless all nurseries of true religion and useful learning and let them not neglect the end of their institution. Be merciful to all that are in distress, that struggle with pain, poverty, or reproach. Be Thou a guide to them that travel by land or water. Give a strong and quiet spirit to those who are condemned to death, liberty to prisoners and captives, and ease and cheerfulness to every sad heart. Give to all in error the light of Thy truth. Bring all sinners to repentance. And give to all heretics humility and grace to make amends to Thy Church by the public acknowledgment of a holy faith.
I humbly and heartily thank Thee for all the favours Thou has bestowed on me: for creating me after Thine own image, for daily preserving me by Thy good Providence, for redeeming me by the death of Thy blessed Son, and for the assistance of Thy Holy Spirit; for causing me to be born in a Christian country, for blessing me with plentiful means of salvation, with religious parents and friends, and frequent returns of Thy ever blessed Sacrament. I also thank Thee for Thy temporal blessings; for the preservation of me this night, for my health, strength, food, raiment, and all the other comforts and necessities of life.
And, O Father of mercies, I most humbly implore forgiveness of all my sins. Lo, I come now to do Thy will alone; and am resolved by Thy assistance to have no longer any choice of my own, but with singleness of heart to obey Th.y good pleasure. Father, not my will, but Thine be done, in all my thoughts, words, and actions.
O THOU all-sufficient God of angels and men, who art above all, and through all, and in all; from whom, by whom, and in whom are all things; in whom we live and move and have our being—may my will be as entirely and continually derived from Thine, as my being and happiness are.
O SOVEREIGN GOODNESS, O mighty Wisdom, Thou doest order and govern all things, even the most minute, even the most noxious, to Thy glory and the good of those that love Thee. O Father of the families of heaven and earth, Thou so disposest all events as may best magnify Thy goodness to all Thy children, especially those whose eyes wait upon Thee. I most humbly beseech Thee, touch me to adore all Thy ways, though I cannot comprehend them. Teach me to be glad that Thou art King, and to give Thee thanks for all things that befall me. And for that which is to come, give me Thy grace to do in all things what pleaseth Thee, and then with an absolute submission to Thy wisdom, to leave the issues of them in Thy hand.
Help me with Thy grace that whatsoever I shall do or suffer this day may tend to Thy glory. Keep me in love to Thee and to all men. Do Thou direct my paths and teach me to set thee always before me. Let not the things of this life, or my manifold concerns therein, alienate any part of my affections from Thee, nor let me ever pursue or regard them but for Thee and in obedience to Thy will.
EXTEND, O Lord, Thy pity to the whole race of mankind. Enlighten the Gentiles with Thy truth and bring into Thy flock Thy ancient people the Jews. Be gracious to Thy Church, and grant that she may always preserve that doctrine and discipline which Thou hast delivered to her. Grant that all of this nation may, whatsoever they do, do all to Thy glory. Bless all nurseries of true religion and useful learning and let them not neglect the end of their institution. Be merciful to all that are in distress, that struggle with pain, poverty, or reproach. Be Thou a guide to them that travel by land or water. Give a strong and quiet spirit to those who are condemned to death, liberty to prisoners and captives, and ease and cheerfulness to every sad heart. Give to all in error the light of Thy truth. Bring all sinners to repentance. And give to all heretics humility and grace to make amends to Thy Church by the public acknowledgment of a holy faith.
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