Faith and the World
O LORD,
The world is artful to entrap,
approaches in fascinating guise,
of 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 grace 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 flavor
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,
Feast on its preciousness,
draw vigor from its manna.
Lord, increase my faith.
—Valley of Vision
The way the Puritans saw the world and the veracity with which they prayed into it offer Christ followers today a model approach to follow. Recognizing the fallen world for its wiles and pleading for the grace to meet each challenge to the end that God is glorified is not only commendable, but effectual. We don’t triumph in our own strength and ingenuity. God’s Word, however, is a well source for renewal and refreshment. Let us borrow and embody this prayer for ourselves. May we be made rich, strong, happy, and fulfilled; and may our faith be increased! Amen! —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics