SEVENTH WEEK.—WEDNESDAY. — Morning

O THOU most gracious God, who hast been in all ages the confidence of thy people, we bless Thee that Thou dost still hear and answer prayer. We earnestly desire that the same Holy Spirit who taught men in ancient days to call upon thy name, may now instruct us, so that with reverence, with gratitude, with faith, and with all humility, we may bow at thy footstool. We thank Thee that Thou hast once again restored the day, and quickened all our powers of body and of mind. Thou hast given us refreshing sleep and safety during the hours of darkness, and we believe that the same power and mercy which have raised us up this morning will one day animate our dust, and raise us from the sleep of death. Let all the gifts of thy wise and holy providence fill our souls with thankfulness to Thee.

We come unto Thee, heavenly Father, in the name of Christ our Elder Brother. We would be clothed with his righteousness, and we plead in his name for the bestowal of that blessing which maketh rich, and addeth no sorrow to it. Make us to know our interest in those boundless blessings which proceed to men through Jesus Christ, who was the hope of the patriarchs, and who has been so distinctly made known to us in the Gospel of thy grace. Preserve us, O Lord, from all deceit and untruthfulness. Suffer not strife or division at any time to destroy our peace, or sever us from those dear to us by the ties of nature or of friendship. Teach us to wait for the fulfilment of thy promises, for Thou hast said, “I am the Lord; they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.” Never let us do evil that good may come. May we choose affliction rather than sin, and walk in the truth all our days.

And now bestow upon each one of us before Thee a blessing, that shall abide with us throughout this day. Make our labour light by the assurance of thy love. Guide us continually by thy counsel, and keep our hearts in thy fear. Help us to live soberly, righteously, and godly, and bring us together again at the close of the day in peace and comfort, to praise thy holy name. Grant, Lord, that our children may be obedient, loving, upright, and honest; and put Thou thy fear into their hearts, that it may preserve them from evil. Bless all with whom we have to do this day. Teach them and us continually to render to one another that which is neighbourly in thy sight; and grant that all men may see in us the fruits of true religion, to the praise of thy holy name. Make our country and our beloved Queen the objects of thy constant care and kindness, and let all the earth rejoice in the knowledge of Thee, our God. We ask it through our ever adorable Redeemer and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.