O Lord, My every sense, member, faculty, affection, is a snare to me, I can scarce open my eyes but I envy those above me, or despise those below me. I covet honor and riches of the mighty, and am proud and unmerciful to the rags of others; If I behold beauty it is a bait to lust, or see deformity, it stirs up loathing … Continue reading A Puritan Prayer of Self-Deprecation

Blessed God, Ten thousand snares are mine without and within, Defend thou me; When sloth and indolence seize me, Give me views of heaven; When sinners entice me, Give me disrelish of their ways; When sensual pleasures tempt me, Purify and refine me; When I desire worldly possessions, Help me to be rich toward thee; When the vanities of the world ensnare me, Let me … Continue reading A Christian’s Prayer

Eternal, Almighty, and most gracious God: heaven is your throne, and earth is your footstool; holy and reverend is your name; you are praised by the angels of heaven, and in the gathering of your church on earth.  Despite our unworthiness, you have invited us through our mediator, Jesus Christ, to present ourselves and our prayers to you.  Receive us graciously.  Help us by your … Continue reading Prayer of Richard Baxter