Philip Doddridge: Piercing Heaven – Puritan’s Prayers

Blessed God! You are the great fountain of being and of happiness.

Just as my being came from you, so my happiness flows directly from you. And the nearer I am to you, the purer and more delicious the stream.

With you is the fountain of life; in your light may I see light!

The great object of my final hope is to dwell forever with you. Give me now a foretaste of that delight. Help me to experience the blessedness of one who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments.

Form my heart by your grace, that I may live in the fear of the Lord all day long.

I direct my awakening thoughts to you, Lord. And with the first ray of light that visits my opening eyes, lift up the light of your countenance on me.

May my first actions when I awake be consecrated to you, O God. You are the one who gives me light, life, and a new reason to live.

Enable my heart to pour itself out before you as your child, with reverence, freedom, and endearment. And may I listen to you, as I desire that you would listen to me.

May I read your word with attention and pleasure. Shape my soul into its mold, and may I hide it in my heart that I may not sin against you.

Help me to renew my dedication to you each morning, through Jesus Christ your beloved Son—and from him receive new supplies of your blessed Spirit, whose influence is the life of my soul.

With that preparation, Lord, lead me by the hand into the day. Help me to abide with you in what you have called me to do, not being slothful in zeal, but fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.

To him be glory forever and ever.

Amen.