For a Person Struggling with Alcohol

O GOD, most mighty and most compassionate, hear our prayers in behalf of this Thy servant, who is making the first trembling efforts to conquer the demon that has so long held him in servitude. We rejoice that Thou hast inspired him to rise in Thy strength against this evil power. Help him to stand, and should he fall, grant that he may not be discouraged, but rather that he may strengthen the weak places of his character, and gird himself anew for the conflict. Thou knowest the force and subtlety of the temptation; how it comes in the most alluring guise; how it promises freedom from care and exaltation above the stings and arrows of the world; how it curses and degrades its victim and works woe and shame to all who love him. Have pity, O Lord, upon him for whom we pray. Bless the means, medical and moral, that are being used for his recovery. Surround him with earnest and hopeful friends who may encourage and sustain him in his hours of weakness. Kindle in his heart the fire of some noble ambition, some spiritual desire that may burn up all base appetite, all craving for an unworthy self-indulgence. It is not meet that Thy child should be held bound by this evil thing. Break the fetters that enchain him, and set him free to serve Thee with a right and quiet mind. And we will give Thee all the praise now and ever. Amen.