THIRTEENTH WEEK.—WEDNESDAY. — Morning

WITH holy awe, yet with filial confidence, we approach thy throne of grace, O heavenly Father; and, while humbling ourselves before Thee, under a deep consciousness of our own unworthiness, we yet draw near with boldness in the all-prevailing name of Jesus Christ. We rely on the assuring promise of thy Word, that whatsoever we ask in his name we shall receive. Much have we to ask, for much we need; much have we to confess, for greatly have we sinned. Grant to us at this time hearts to pray, and give us the spirit of praise. Pour out upon us the Holy Ghost, that He may teach us our necessities, and dictate our supplications.

We remember with gratitude that thine eye is ever upon us; that He who is our Protector and Friend neither slumbereth nor sleepeth, and that the humblest of thy people are precious in thy sight. Impress this cheering thought upon our minds, so that we may not despond amid difficulties, nor despair amid disappointments. May we recall to mind how Thou hast wrought deliverance for thy people in the days of old, and that Thou, the unchangeable God, canst deliver now. Reveal to us more and more the glorious victory of Christ, and enable us to be more than conquerors through Him that loved us. May we know Him as the Deliverer out of Zion, who gives liberty to the captive and freedom to the slave.

Grant, O mighty God, that Satan may be trodden down under our feet, and that the standard of the Lord may be lifted up against the flood of iniquity in our land. Raise up amongst us faithful witnesses for thy truth, who may speak in love, and earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. May they cry aloud and not spare, lifting up their voice like a trumpet. May their bold testimony be honoured of Thee in the conversion of many souls, and the discomfiture of those who oppose thy Word. May the record of thy love have free course and be glorified, the kingdom of Christ extended; and from north to south, from east to west, may earth echo with the sound, “Know the Lord.” Reveal thine arm in the midst of the world, that wondering nations may cry, “See what God hath wrought!” Teach us so to experience thy sympathy and love that in all our nights of trial or days of joy we may draw near to Thee, assured that into a Father’s ear we may pour the complaint of our sorrows, or the grateful tribute of our rejoicing hearts. Enrich us with all spiritual blessings, and so guide us through things temporal that we finally lose not the things eternal. Grant these our prayers for the sake of thy beloved Son Jesus Christ. Amen.