A few weeks ago, I came across a wonderful morning prayer which is linked to the elders of the Optina Monastery in Russia.
The text of the prayer follows:
O Lord, grant that I may meet all that this coming day brings to me with spiritual tranquility. Grant that I may fully surrender myself to Thy holy Will.
At every hour of this day, direct and support me in all things. Whatsoever news may reach me in the course of the day, teach me to accept it with a calm soul and the firm conviction that all is subject to Thy holy Will.
Direct my thoughts and feelings in all my words and actions. In all unexpected occurrences, do not let me forget that all is sent down from Thee.
Grant that I may deal straightforwardly and wisely with every member of my family, neither embarrassing nor saddening anyone.
O Lord, grant me the strength to endure the fatigue of the coming day and all the events that take place during it. Direct my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to hope, to be patient, to forgive, and to love.
Amen.
Hi Walt:
I say this prayer every day, only it’s a more modern version and it’s in the Orthodox Study Bible.
O Lord, grant me to greet the coming of the day in peace, help me in all things to rely upon Your will. In every hour of the day reveal Your will to me. Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes to me throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that Your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by You. Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others. Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And, Yourself pray in me.
Amen.
Hi Cindy,
Good to hear from you. Thanks for posting the more contemporary version of the prayer. It covers so much in few words and places God in Christ exactly where He belongs….in the center.
I heard a reference to this prayer on a podcast to which I listen regularly. It is called “Glory to God” and is hosted by Father Stephen Freeman who is the priest at Sainte Anne Orthodox Church (OCA) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. He has had some interesting inisights on the faith from an Orthodox perspective and have found his podcast episodes really valuable.
Thanks again for your comments!!! The Lord bless and keep you.