NINETEENTH WEEK.—LORD’S DAY. — Evening

O LORD, our heavenly Father, accept our united thanks for the privileges of this Sabbath-day. Grant us the aid of thy Holy Spirit, that we may offer unto Thee an acceptable sacrifice.

Impress upon our minds the lessons which we have just read. May we learn not to be surprised at any trials we may meet with during our pilgrimage through this world of sin and temptation. If man in his wickedness should place stumbling-blocks in our way, grant us grace still to persevere. We know that we are safe in thy protection; for Thou hast said, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay.” To all thy people who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, grant the consolations of thy grace, and so overrule the conduct of their enemies, that the wrath of man may praise Thee. As Thou art gracious and merciful, and willest not the death of a sinner, we pray that all the persecutors of thy people may be brought to true repentance. Give to all thy saints the spirit of their Divine Master, that they may bless them that curse them, and pray for them who despitefully use and persecute them. Increase the faith of all thy servants, that they may be spiritual amidst worldliness, forgiving amongst enemies, and heavenly-minded whilst surrounded by the ungodly.

Enable us, O Lord, to understand and obey thy will at all times, and save us from all pride, that we may attach no merit to any of our duties. That we have any disposition or power to obey thy commandments, we owe to thy grace; whilst all our failings, which are many, belong to ourselves. Forgive the defects, infirmities, and sins which cleave to our most holy things. May we ever walk humbly with Thee, our God, counting it an honour to be thy servants, and leaving it to Thee to bless and reward us as Thou seest fit.

We thank Thee, O blessed Saviour, for the teaching of thy Word. In what Thou hast done, we see thy readiness to hear, and thine ability to answer prayer. As Thou didst restore the lepers to health, so heal our souls. Make us willing to obey thy commands, that we may obtain the fulfilment of thy promises. May we never pause in our obedience, seeking for reasons for the duties which Thou dost enjoin, but instantly fulfil them, that we may prove thy power to save. Forgive our past unthankfulness for the blessings we have received, and vouchsafe to us the spirit of gratitude, that we may glorify Thee on earth, and thus prepare to praise Thee for ever in heaven.

Defend us this night, O Lord, from all danger, and grant us refreshing sleep, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with Thee, O Father, and Thee, O Holy Ghost, be everlasting praise. Amen.