EIGHTEENTH WEEK.—WEDNESDAY. — Morning

MOST glorious Lord God, our merciful and loving Father, in whom we live, and move, and have our being; in the multitude of thy tender mercies we once more approach Thee, from whom all good things proceed. And since Thou hast safely brought us to the beginning of this day, we beseech Thee to defend and direct us in the same; and as Thou hast blest us in our lying down and in our rising up, so protect and keep us in our going forth and in our coming home. It is in vain for us to labour, except thy blessing go with us; prosper us, therefore, we pray Thee, O Lord, in our several callings, and so guide us that all we take in hand may tend to thy glory, to the good of others, and to the comfort of our own souls. From Thee do come wisdom and understanding, and knowledge in all manner of workmanship. Strength and skill are thy gifts. Thou teachest the ploughman to open and break the clods of the ground. Thou hast created the smith to make and the waster to destroy. And because the Lord of life and glory did not disdain a lowly station, may we labour with cheerfulness, and study to be quiet and do our own business. Help us so to walk in thy fear, that in mirth we become not trifling, and in sorrow we sink not into despair. Instruct us by thy Word; soften us by thy grace; and humble us by thy corrections. May we see Thee, O God, in all things, and all things in the light of thy presence.

Suffer us not to be led away by the error of the wicked, but keep us, that no temptations may prevail to plunge us into intemperance, uncleanness, evil speaking, or aught that would defile our hearts, disturb our consciences, or destroy our peace.

In all the labours of life we would look forward to the Sabbath of rest; and we pray that when life and its labours shall close upon us, we may dwell with Thee, in the everlasting Sabbath of thy glorious presence. Till then, most merciful God, permit us not to neglect the means of grace, but bless this our family worship, and seasons of public worship, and make them all conduce to our personal holiness and to thy praise.

[Behold, Lord, our dear children, and put thy fear into their young hearts. Let thy good providence guard them and thy grace save them.] In mercy watch over all our friends, relations, and neighbours. Comfort and bless our beloved Sovereign, and grant that she and all her family may reign with thee in everlasting life. Prosper and preserve our country, and spread abroad the glory of thy holy name, and the kingdom of thy dear Son Jesus Christ throughout all the world. Now to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be all praise and glory for ever. Amen.