A Minister's Prayer


“O my Lord, Let not my ministry be approved only by men, or merely win the esteem and affections of people; But do the work of grace in their hearts, call in Your elect, seal and edify the regenerate ones, and command eternal blessings on their souls. Save me from self-opinion and self-seeking; Water the hearts of those who hear Your Word, that seed sown in weakness may be raised in power; Cause me and those that hear me to behold You here in the light of special faith, and hereafter in the blaze of endless glory; Make my every sermon a means of grace to myself, and help me to experience the power  of Your dying love, for Your blood is balm, Your presence bliss, Your smile heaven, Your cross the place where truth and mercy meet. Look upon the doubts and discouragements of my ministry and keep me from self-importance; I beg pardon for my many sins, omissions, infirmities, as a man, as a minister; Command Your blessing on my weak, unworthy labours, and on the message of salvation given; Stay with Your people, and may Your presence be their portion and mine. When I preach to others let not my words be merely elegant and masterly, my reasoning polished and refined, my performance powerless and tasteless, but may I exalt You and humble sinners. O Lord of power and grace, all hearts are in Your hands, all events at Your disposal, set the seal of Your almighty will [and Your pleasure] upon my ministry.”

[Adapted from"The Valley of Vision"' p.338] 

Mike

http://www.banneroftruth.org/pages/dailydevotion_detail.php?2058

Comments

Larry Pearson said…
MIKE I LIKE THIS PRAYER!
November 1, 2013 at 1:16 AM
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