A Shared Prayer
Dear Father of my soul,
You see my troubles and trials with perfect clarity. Just as you know the end from the beginning, you know the purpose of my trials, and the perfect work that they will have in me. All things are before you, forever.
You know that I come to you this day with struggles and with pain. I cannot always see what you can see. I am imperfect, a sinner. My shortcomings make me blind, and they cause me to doubt.
Remove this doubt from my heart, oh God, that I might see as you see. Let me glimpse the vision of what my trials mean. Let me understand the benefit of my experience.
Father, in my imperfection I would ask for you to remove my trials. Remove instead this desire from my heart. Forgive my imperfection, and with my striving cause all things to work together for my good. I love you, and want only what you want. I trust in your will.
Give me the strength, oh Lord, to carry the burdens that are mine. Cause them to be light upon me, that I might stand, with a perfect hope in the knowledge that you walk with me. Make me whole in spirit, that I might have the fortitude to conquer all things.
Thank you, Father, for every good thing that you give. Thank you for my trials, for surely in them I will come to know you and understand your ways.
In Jesus Name, Amen.
Notes on This Prayer
This prayer is part of a small series of prayers for understanding. We often pray to receive a blessing, or to eliminate a trial. These prayers seek greater wisdom and knowledge.
As with all prayers, these are guides. Use them however you feel you ought. Change the wording as needed, to align with your personal feelings toward God.
Why Do We Pray?
We pray to demonstrate a willingness to bring our will into alignment with God. We pray to receive God's blessings, and to thank him for all that we have and are.
How Can I Pray?
The practice of prayer varies throughout the world, and over time. God is all-powerful, and is capable of hearing any prayer. Pray in your heart or out loud. The manner of your prayer is not as important as your heart.
What About Religious Differences?
We acknowledge that there are a great many differences between the world's religions. These prayers are written from a Christian perspective. Adjust them as needed to fit your understanding and practice.