My master God,

I am desired to preach today,

but go weak and needy to my task …

Yet I long that people might be edified with divine truth,

that an honest testimony might be borne for thee;

Give me assistance in preaching and prayer,

with heart uplifted for grace and unction.

Keep me conscious all the while of my defects,

and let me not gloat in pride over my performance. …

Help me to offer a testimony for thyself,

and to leave sinners inexcusable in neglecting thy mercy.

Attend with power the truth preached,

and awaken the attention of my slothful audience.

May thy people be refreshed, melted, convicted, comforted,

and help me to use the strongest arguments

drawn from Christ's incarnation and sufferings,

that men might be made holy.

I myself need thy support, comfort, strength, holiness,

that I might be a pure channel of thy grace,

and be able to do something for thee …

keep me in tune with thee as I do this work.

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Reprinted from Valley of Vision (Banner of Truth ...