Help Me, Spirit of God
O SPIRIT OF GOD,
Help my infirmities;
When I am pressed down with a load of sorrow, perplexed and knowing not what to do, slandered and persecuted, made to feel the weight of the cross, help me, I pray thee.
If thou seest in me any wrong thing encouraged, any evil desire cherished, any delight that is not thy delight, any habit that grieves thee, any nest of sin in my heart, then grant me the kiss of thy forgiveness, and teach my feet to walk the way of thy commandments.
Deliver me from carking care,
And make me a happy, holy person;
Help me to walk the separated life with firm and brave step, and to wrestle successfully against weakness;
Teach me to laud, adore, and magnify thee, with the music of heaven,
And make me a perfume of praiseful gratitude to thee.
I do not crouch at thy feet as a slave before a tyrant, but exult before thee as a son with a father.
Give me power to live as thy child in all my actions, and to exercise sonship by conquering self.
Preserve me from the intoxication that comes of prosperity;
Sober me when I am glad with a joy that comes not from thee.
Lead me safely on to the eternal kingdom, not asking whether the road be rough or smooth.
I request only to see the face of him I love, to be content with bread to eat, with raiment to put on, if I can be brought to thy house in peace.
—Valley of Vision
There are days when sorrow sits heavy, when confusion clouds our next step, when persecution, failure, or the weight of old habits leaves us feeling crushed. The prayer from Valley of Vision speaks to those moments—not with shame, but with a plea for help: “O Spirit of God, help my infirmities.” It’s a reminder that we don’t have to carry the weight alone. The Spirit sees what we often miss—those habits, delights, or hidden sins that slowly dim our joy—and gently brings conviction, not to condemn, but to free us.
This prayer isn’t groveling before a harsh master—it’s a child speaking to a loving Father. It reminds us that true holiness isn’t about fear but freedom: freedom to walk with courage, to praise with gratitude, and to live with a joyful, sober heart no matter the road. Whether today feels smooth or steep, you can ask the Spirit to steady your steps, center your soul, and fix your eyes on the One who walks beside you—and welcomes you home in peace. —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics