Prayer matters

Time spent with God is never wasted. Prayer should be as much a part of our daily routine as eating, drinking and sleeping.  Spending time with God is essential for healthy spiritual growth and not an optional extra, yet many of us experience frustration knowing that our prayer life could be much more than it is. However, starting a regular prayer routine can be difficult.  Sometimes just finding the right words are hard.  Remember that God simply wants us to talk with him.  He is not expecting great speeches or clever words and phrases.

 Prayers for ourselves;  a short prayer for guidance

Dear Lord,
Sometimes I cannot see the way ahead and  I can feel so confused.
So today I ask that your hand would be upon mine.
Please lead me safely through.
Guide my heart, my mind and body to navigate the way.
I put my trust in you.
Amen.

Prayers for others:

Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight,
and give Your angels charge over those who sleep.
Tend Your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest Your weary ones.
Bless Your dying ones.
Soothe Your suffering ones.
Pity Your afflicted ones.
Shield Your joyous ones.
And all for Your love’s sake.
Amen
 Augustine of Hippo

The Diocesan Prayer

Almighty God, source of our hope and all good things; you call us in love to share in the work of creation in making all things new.

Bless our diocese: may we be faithful in our worship; confident in our discipleship; and joyful in our service; that, through us, the world may catch a glimpse of the love you have for each one of us, made known to us in your son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen

 

A Prayer for our church within Withamside United Parish

Enable us, Lord, your church here in Withamside, to be open to do your will. 
Make us vulnerable that we may speak with calm humility;
Make us attentive that we may hear your voice speak clearly;
Make us outward looking that we may care deeply;
Make us a community of peacemakers and bridge builders.
In our worship and our witness let this church make space
for the hearing of your still small voice.
Amen.