Robert Hawker: Piercing Heaven – Puritan’s Prayers

Most blessed God and Father! I bless you, I praise you, and I desire to love you, in and through Jesus.

And while my whole soul benefits and enjoys the person and work of Jesus, keep me always mindful that it is you, most gracious and almighty Father, that have made him most blessed forever. Your glory is great in his salvation! And the glory of the Son of God is great in your salvation!

Yes, blessed Jesus, I would cast all upon you: sins, sorrows, trials, and temptations. You are the Almighty Burden-bearer of your people, for the Lord Jehovah has laid on you the iniquity of us all.

And as you bear all our sins, so you carry all our sorrows. And do you not bear every one of your redeemed? Do you not bear all our troubles, temptations, trials, and difficulties? The government is upon your shoulder. The care of the church is all with you.

So will I not cast all my care upon you? Will I worry about many things, while Jesus says, “Cast your burden upon the Lord, and he will sustain you”?

Lord give me grace to let loose all things, and to leave all things with you. Lord, bear me up when I am falling, support me when weak, uphold me against all my enemies, carry me safe through a life of grace here. And, finally, bring me home to your glory, to behold you, and dwell with you forever.

Amen.