FAITH AND THE WORLD

From The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions

O LORD,

The world is artful to entrap,

approaches in fascinating guise,

extends many a gilded bait,

presents many a charming face.

Let my faith scan every painted bauble,

and escape every bewitching snare

in a victory that overcomes all things.

In my duties give me firmness, energy, zeal,

devotion to thy cause,

courage in thy name,

love as a working grace,

and all commensurate with my trust.

Let faith stride forth in giant power,

and love respond with energy in every act.

I often mourn the absence of my beloved Lord

whose smile makes earth a paradise,

whose voice is sweetest music,

whose presence gives all graces strength.

But by unbelief I often keep him outside my door.

Let faith give entrance that he may abide

with me forever.

Thy Word is full of promises,

flowers of sweet fragrance,

fruit of refreshing flavour

when culled by faith.

May I be made rich in its riches,

be strong in its power,

be happy in its joy,

abide in its sweetness.

draw vigour from its manna.

Lord, increase my faith.

The Valley of Vision by Arthur Bennett | Banner of Truth USA