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"^•mmmmrn

BOOK OF PRAYERS

FOR

FAMILY WORSHIP.

KDITKD BY

REV. WILLIAM GREGG, M.A.,

PR0PK8S0R OP APOLOGETICS, KNOX COLLEGE, TORONTO.

,,,,,LTOM PUBUC UBR?.P.^.

TORONTO .
JAMES CAMPBELL & SON,

Entered ancordlnR to tho Act of the Parllamont of Tanada. In the year One thousand Ri«;bt
hundred and Seventy-Uiree, by JAMES Campbell* Son, In the Office of the Minister
of Agriculture,

; t

\---\ ?■ \\^\ V'..\ \ l^H**^>HY

JAN 1 9 1943

PREFACE.

1 Rl*:ht

[lllistM

IN the preparation of this Book of Prayers, free
use has been made of the copious materials with
which the devotional literature of the church has
been enriched, by writers both ancient ana modern.
Simplicity, fulness, catholicity and adaptation to the
varied wants of families have been aimed at ; and it
is hoped that these prayers may be found helpful, not
only in connection with the observance of family
worship, but also in connection with the visitation
of the sick, and the exercises of secret communion
with God.

The Editor begs to thank friends for their valu-
able contributions and assistance rendered to him
while the work was ^'n progress. His obligations
are also due to the owners of copyrights for permis-
sion given for the use of their works, and especially
to Messrs. Longmans,Green & Co., Paternoster Row,
London, for selections from " Family Prayers " col-
lected by the late Baron Bunsen, published by thein ;
also to Messrs. Cassell, Better & Galpin, Ludgato
Hill, London, for selections from their " Family
Prayer Book"; to Messrs. Seeley & Co., Fleet Street,
London, for selections from their " Prayers Ancient
and Modem" ; and to Mr. W. P. Nimmo, Edinburgh,
for selections from his " Book of Family Prayers
for Five Weeks."

CONTENTS.

PRAYERS FOR FAMILY WORSHIP.

JtrBt U)eek.

PAOB

Sabbath Morning I

Sabbath Evening 3

Monday Morning 5

Monday Evening 7

Tuesday Morning 9

Tuesday Evening 11

Wednesday Morning 13

Wednesday Evening 15

Thursday Morning 17

Thursday Evening 19

Fiiday Morning 21

Friday Evening 23

Saturday Morning 25

Saturday Evening 27

Qnowi lUe^k.

Sabbath Morning 29

Sabbath Evening 31

Monday Morning 33

Monday Evening 36

Tuesday Morning — 37

Tuesday Evening 39

Wednesday Morning 41

Wednesday Evening 43

Thursday Morning 45

Thursday Evening 47

Friday Morning 49

Contents.

PAOB

Friday Evening 51

Saturday Mominj; 53

Saturday Eveniutf 55

(tllirb tUttk.

Sabbath Morning 67

Sabbath Evening 59

Monday Morning 61

Monday Evening 63

Tuesday Morning 66

Tuesday Evening 67

Wednesday Morning , 69

Wednesday Evening 71

Thursday Morning 73

Thursday Evening 75

Friday Morning 77

Friday Evening 79

Saturday Morning 81

Saturday Evening 83

iburti) lOeek.

Sabbath Morning , , 85

Sabbath Evening 87

Monday Morning 89

Monday Evening 91

Tuesday Morning 93

Tuesday Evening 95

Wednesday Morning 97

Wednesday Evening 99

Thursday Morning 101

Thursday Evening 103

Friday Morning 105

Friday Evening 107

Saturday Morning 109

Saturday Evening ;.,»•.•■! i... \\\

Contents,

Vll

Jiftl) lllcck

PAGE

Sftbbath Morniuif 113

Sabbath Evening 115

Monday Morning 117

Monday Evening 119

Tu«8day Morning 121

Tueflday Evening 123

Wednesday Morning 125

Wednesday Evening 127

Thursday Morning 129

Thursday Evening 131

Friday Mt)rning 133

Friday Evening 136

Saturday Morning 137

Saturday Evening 139

Siull) U)«k.

Sabbath Morning 141

Sabbath Evening , 143

Monday Morning 145

Monday Evening 147

Tuesday Morning ... 149

Tuesday Evening 151

Wednesday Morning 153

Wednesday Evening 155

Thursday Morning 157

Thursday Evening 159

Friday Morning IGl

Friday Evening 163

Saturday Morning 165

Saturday Evening 167

Stpaitl) lUi'ek.

Sabbath Morning 169

Sabbath Evening 171

Monday Morning 373

Vlll

Contents,

?AOB

Monday Evening 175

Tutisday Morning 177

Tuesday Evening 179

Wednesday Morning 181

Wednesday Evening 183

Thursday Morning 186

Thursday Evening 187

Friday Morning 189

Friday Evening 191

Saturday Morning 193

Saturday Evening 195

(Sigl)tl) tDeek.

Sabbath Momino' 197

Sabbath Evening 199

Monday Mor .ling 201

Monday Evening 203

Tuesday Morning 205

Tuesday Evening 207

Wednesday Morning 209

Wednesday Evening 211

Thursday Morning 213

Thursday Evening 215

Friday Morning 217

Friday Evening 219

Saturday Morning 221

Satiurday Evening 223

JPrasera for iSpeml (S>ttamm.

Communion Sabbath Morning 225

Communion Sabbath Evening 227

Thanksgiving for Harvest 229

First Day of the Year 230

Last Day of the Year 232

For a Member of a Family Unwell 234

For a Member of a Family Apparently Dying. 236

Thanksgiving for Recovery from Sickness. ,37

Contents,

PAOI

For A Sick Child 238

Or. occasion of '.he Death of a Member of a Family 239

On occaaion of the Death of a Young Person 240

On occasion of the Death of a Young Child 242

On the occasion of a Hurial 243

On the occasion of the Burial of a Child 246

Reflections and Meditations for Sick and Afflicted Persons, 1st. 247

Another 2nd.

Do
Do
Do
Do
Do

.3rd.
4th.
6th.
6th.
7th.

24)
249
261
262
264
266

JJrbatt Prager0.

I. Before Reading the Scriptures 260

II. For Repentance 261

III. Faith and Ti-ust in God 262

IV. Perseverance 263

V. Grace to Keep the Commandments 264

VI. Purity of Heart and Conversation 266

VII. For a Forgiv'r.7 Disposition 266

VIII. For Spiritual Enlargement 267

IX. For Preparation and Readiness to Die 268

X. The Widow's Prayer 269

Direction for the Friends of Sick and Afflicted Persons 271

iMiacellanfoua JJra^ers.

I. For the Ministers of Christ 277

II. Before a Missionary Meeting 278

III. For Universities and Colleges 280

IV. For a Revival of Religion 281

V. For Persons Dejected in Spirits 282

VI. For Persons Diseased in Mind 284

VII. For Prisoners 286

VIII. Before Meat 286

JX. After Meat , ., 237

PRAYEES FOR FAMILY WORSHIP.

gmt mttk

l! I

SABBATH MOKNING.

ALMIGHTY and eternal God, who, on the first
day of Thy creation, didst cause light to shine
out of darkness, shine, \ve pray Thee, in our dark
and sinful hearts, to give the light of the knowledge
of Thj glory in the face of Jesuo Christ.

Lord, we are igijorant, and slow of heart to be-
lieve ; teach Thou us hy Thy Holy Spirit, and en-
able us to lay hold on that truth wherein we have
been instructed. Cause the Word of Christ to en-
ter our hearts, nndto dwell within us in its wisdom
and in its strength.

Too long, O Lord, we have lain in willing bond-
age, stopping our ears against the call of conscience
and duty. And when we have sought to rid our-
selves of ir sins and infirmities, we have found our
own strength to be but weakness against the power
of the flesh and of the world. Lord, give us that
strength which is made perfect in weakness, even
that Holy Spirit ot grace, whom Thou hast promised
to them that diligently seek Him.

We pray Thee, Lord, to send out Thy light and
Thy truth, that they may guide us into Thy Holy
presence. Grant that this day may be a day of help

2 Family Worship.

and blessing to our souls and the souls of many.
Be with us in Thy house of prayer. Fix all our
thoughts upon Thee, and draw out our desires after
Thee. May we hold communion with Thee, O Fa-
ther, and with our risen Lord, by the Holy Spirit,
and be strengthened to go on our way rejoicing.

Bless the labours of Thy ministers everywhere.
Pour out upon them the Spirit of faith, and the
Spirit of wisdom, and the Spirit of love, and the
Spirit of holiness. Give grace to Thy people to
hear Thy Word meekly, and to receive it with
pure affection, and to bring forth the fruits of the
Spirit.

O Lord send into our souls the spirit of peace,
keep far from us this day all strife and debate, all
anxious longing after the things of this world, all
distressing doubts concerning Thy revelation and
Thy promise. Enable us to rise, in heart and soul,
to the place where Christ sitteth at Thy right hand,
and feel it to be indeed our country and our home.

Help us, O Lord, to press forward more earnestly
towards the goal of our earthly pilgrimage. Grant
that none of us, through carelessness, unfaithfulness,
or sin, may forfeit our crown. Give us grace to lay
aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily
beset us, and to run with patience, even to the end,
the race that is set before us. And receive us, O
Lord, when we die into the everlasting habitations,
through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ,
our only Saviour and Redeemer, Amm.

^"^^m.

Family Worship. 3

SABBATH EVENING.

OLORD of hosts, the God of Israel, who dwellest
in the highest heavens, on a throne of glory,
encompassed with seraphim and all the glorified
host of heaven, Thou art the God, even Thou alone,
of all the kingdoms of the earth ; Thou hast made
heaven and earth. We adore p.nd worship Thee,
who wast in Christ reconciling the world unto Thy-
self, not imputing their trespasses unto them. We
bless Thy holy name, who redeem est our life from
destruction and crownest us with lovinor-kindness
and tender mercies.

Lord, receive the prayers and praises of Thy
whole Church throughout the world, this day pre-
sented unto Thee. May they ascend up unto Thee
through the mediation and intercession of our great
High-Priest, who is now in Thy presence, and stands
at Thy altar, and with the golden censer, and much
incense, offers the prayers of all Thy saints before
Thy throne. Send down from above that divine
grace and power by which sin shall be vanquished,
the world overcome, Satan subdued, and all
the fruits of righteousiiess shall be yielded up
by us and all Thy people, to Thy honour and
glory.

O Lord, forgive all the sins of our services this
day. How many are our Sabbath sins! Li past days
how many broken Sabbaths, unimproved opportu-
nities, and lost privileges ; and how greatly do we

> i

4 Family Worship.

still fall short in everything of Thy glory ! Hc^w
often has the Sabbath been to us rather a weariness
than a delight ; a formal service, and not a spiritual
enjoyment ; a burden, and not a privilege ! How
often have vain imaginations, wanderings of heart,
and distractions of mind, mingled with and polluted
all its holy duties even to thi| very day ! Blot out
all our sins for Thy name's sake, and give us be-
lieving, penitent hearts ; that, receiving Thy word
in faith and meekness, we may be not only hearers
but doers of it also. Make our hearts truly to re-
ceive and gladly to obey. Oh, preserve us from a
hardened heart, keep us from tempting and provok-
ing God. Keep us from erring in our hearts, and
from ignorance of Thy ways ; and enable us so to
believe, that we may finally enter that rest which
remaineth for the people of God.

Bless Thy faithful ministers in their own souls,
and in their families ; make them burning and shin-
ing lights to Thy Church. Make Thy people watch-
ful and prayerful. Let us remember all the solemn
admonitions to be ready for the Lord's coming ; and
keep us from thfi temptation of thinking Thee slack
concerning Thy promise. Let our loins ever be
girded about, and our lights burning, and may
we be like unto men that wait for their Lord,
that when He cometh we may open to Him imme-
diately. O Lord Jesus, hear us for Thy name's
sake. Aytien,

Family Worship.

MONDAY MORNING.

OGOD, our gracious Father, in whom we live
and move and have our being, whose presence
and glory surround us on every side, shed abroad,
through the Holy Ghost, Thy love in Christ Jesus
in our hearts. O may we all see how great is Thy
goodness, how great is Thy beauty, and how excellent
is Thy loving-kindness ; and let us all be numbered
with the sons of men who put their trust under the
shadow of Thy wings.

Give us grace to live under the constant sense of
Thy Holy love to us sinneis. Lead us into the
fulness of the blessed truth that God is love ; and
that he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and
God in him. Let love out of a pure heart, be the
great animating, directing, and enlivening principle
of our whole conduct toward Thee and toward all
men.

May the sermons yesterday preached by Thy min-
istering Servants here, and the instruction given, be
a blessing to this place — to rich and poor ; to young
and old ; to the children in the schools, and to the
parents of the children. Extend the same blessing
wherever thy Gospel has been proclaimed, far and
wide. Let there not be one hearing Thy truth, with-
out some quickening or strengthening grace from
the truth preached.

May Thy Church be animated by a believing view
of the bliss of all Thy saints now with Thee in the

Family Worship.

heavenly Zion, and by the prospect of the resurrec-
tion glory of Thy Church in the day of Christ.
Seeing this great cloud of witnesses, let us run with
patience, day by day, the race that is set before us ;
may we lay aside every weight with which the
world or Satan would encumber us, and the sin
which does so easily beset us ; and may we be ever
looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our
faith.

O Lord, hold Thou up our goings in Thy paths,
for only while Thou boldest us up are we safe. We
are iu the midst of snares and temptations, which we
see not, or at best see very dimly. Do Thou then,
who never slumberest nor sleepest, still watch over,
keep, and guard us, and inspire us with holy zeal,
and courage, and devotedness in Thy service.

Let the wicked all around be converted and turned
to Thee; Jet the impenitent and unbelieving be
brought to repentance and faith ; and those bur-
dened with sin and guilt oome to Jesus and be
relieved.

Bless this our family. Let it appear that we have
been given to one another, and brought together in
Thy providence to be blessings to each other, in body
and in soul, for time and for eternity.

And bless the whole family of God. Bring in the
Jews : bring in the Gentiles, and let it be said over
the whole earth. Behold how good and pleasant it
is for brethren to dwell together in unity. Hear us
for Jesus' sake. Aynen.

Family Worship,

MONDAY EVENING.

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God ! Thou art
unspeakably great and glorious. Thou art
the king eternal, immortal and invisible. Thy
throne is in the highest heavens, and Thou art
exalted above all blessing and praise. We, the crea-
tures whom Thy hand hath made, and whom Thy
providence sustains from day to day, desire at this
time humbly to bow down before Thy divine
Majesty, and to acknowledge our obligations to
Thine infinite goodness and mercy.

We bless Thee for all the comforts of this life ; but,
above all, for Thine inestimable love in sending Thy
Son from heaven to become the Saviour of our souls.
We thank Thee for having provided this Mediator,
through whom sinners may draw near unto Thee.
We beseech Thee, O Lord, to grant unto us pardon
of our sins through Jesus Christ. Remember not
against us the transgressions either of this day or of
our former lives; but be Thou pleased to receive us
into Thy favour, and to adopt us into Thy family as
members of Christ, as children of God, and heirs of
the kingdom of heaven. And vouchsafe unto us the
gift of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may be enabled to
love Thee with all our hearts, and faithfully to per-
form Thy righteous will. We beseech Thee to renew
us in the spirit of our minds. Help us to put off
that old man, which is corrupt according to the
flesh, and to put on that new man, which is created

Family Worship,

after Thine own image, in righteousness and true
holiness.

We would confide in Thee, who art ever ready to
protect those who sincerely love and serve Thee. Let
thy watchful providence defend us by night and by
day, in adversity and prosperity, in sickness and in
health ; and whenever the hour of our death shall draw
near, may we find our consolation in Christ abound.

Bless our native land ; and may it still be favoured
with the light of Thy gospel. Bless our Queen and
all in authority, and give them wisdom to fulfil the
arduous duties to which they are called. Have
mercy on all who are in any sorrow; on the widows
and the fatherless, and on those who have none to
help them. Look down with compassion on those
who sufier from the calamities of war. Be merciful
to our dear friends and relations. Grant that they
may be now united with us in the bonds of Christian
love, and that we may all be members of Thy blessed
family in heaven.

We pray Thee to take us under Thy care this night
We are unable to protect ourselves, but Thou, Lord,
art ever present with us. O hear us from heaven
Thy dwelling-place ; and for Thy mercy's sake, be-
stow upon us more than we ask or think, or are
worthy to receive.

We present these our humble and imperfect pray-
ers, in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
for whose sake alone we entreat Thee to hear and
answer them. Amen. -a

Family War ski p.

HI!

TUESDAY MORNING.

OLORD our God, we desire with all humility
and reverence to adore Thee, who art in-
finitely blessed and glorious, who hast all perfection
in Thyself and art the Fountain of all being, power
life, and perfection. Thou art good to all, and Thy
tender mercies are over all Thy works. look upon
us now, and show mercy unto us, as Thou usest to do
unto those who love Thy name.

We thank Thee for the mercies of the past night;
that we laid as down and slept, and waked up again
in safety, because Thou hast sustained us ; that no
plague has come nigh our dwelling, but that we
are brought in safety to the beginning of another
day.

We acknowledge that W3 are unworthy of all the
truth and mercy which Thou hast showed unto us ;
we have sinned against Thee, we are guilty before
Thee ; we have corrupt and sinful natures, backward
to good, and prone to evil continually. We are
cold and defective in our love to Thee; we are
weak in our own desires after Thee, and cannot walk
with Thee as we ought to do. But we pray Thee
to forgive all our sins, for Christ's sake, and be at
peace with us, in Him who died to make peace, and
let Thy peace rule in our hearts.

O Lord, we commit ourselves to Thy care and
keeping this day ; watch over us for good ; compass
us about with Thy fiivour as with a shield ; preserve

I'^amily ^yonhip.

us from all evil • vpi fl.. r ■

our .souls. ■ ^ ' ""-' ^"''^ i"''«'-'"'« ">.d keep

Our bodies, and all our worMlu .«• •
to the conduct of thy wi J" 7 "'""'^ "•'■'"''•''
and submit to its disposals ? ^"''7°"'' l"<'videnco,

- ■> keep us in health anitfeU " "" '""""' '"
lawful undertakings and X ' '""■^P'^'- "«'""" our

i" them. Our sout v ' "' """''"'' "'"' --'«-
of Th, Spiri, r;;l;' ~ -^ the government

?n us, and suflicienf for us, t ''Si r'^"'^
^n us, both to will and to d f Tp '" "'"'^
pleasure. Grant us strenafh f ,, "'''" «°°''
the clay, that we may do alF t^ ' *'" ''""*^'* '"■

acknowledging Thee in ! """»^ '^'^'«'- ^ S^Jly sort,

pWd to direct our srep: ''^ ''""'^ ' '^"'' ^^ ^-^
K^eep us from .sin ; give us tl,» i

spirits, and keep us from!, " - °^"" '"^^ "'^n

o- lips. May weitrtS ,:"'^-""^'^^^^^^^
J-e, and do Thou Lakfl'" " '•"" ""^ ^°'^
our dealings and nl '=°n««entious in all

becomes th^ ^t??/^^''^"' %--t sin, as
Prepare us for all the events of .7' T'"' "^'"" *''^'«-
not What a day may bri^t^ Svf ''' '''"^

even

our
of

for

^or His sake who died

- and rose again and who h^h ^ ^
^ saying, Our F.i.h.. r.„ ^^^^ *^"^^^

pray, saying, Our Father, fc

us to

Family Worihii>.

I !l

! i

TUESDAY EVENING.

GREAT God, the God of tlie whole earth and
of the highest heavens ; our merciful Father,
who wast in Christ Jesus reconciling the world unto
Thyself, not irnimting their trespasses unto them, we
beseech Thee to draw all our hearts now unto Thee.
O grant that this, our family prayer unto Thee, may
not be a burden, but our joy and delight ; give us
to engage in it, not merely because habit requires us
to do so, but as a real relief and comfort to our
souls ; may we never be weary of it nor weary in
it, but ever find it a refreshment in our weariness,
and a rest from our cares.

We desire to thank Thee from the heart for all the
mercies of this day ; our many wants have been sup-
plied ; we have been spared and blessed, and every-
thing which has happened to us has been according
to thy gracious providence. We thank thee for the
joys and the sorrows, the mercies and the trials of this
day ; all come from Thee in love ; and Oh, give us to
know that, loving Thee, all will work for our chief
good. Help us to rejoice in Thee, the Lord, always ;
and in everything to give thanks.

We confess to Thee our many sins. Whether we
look at our thoughts, our words, or works — in the
morning, at mid-day, in the afternoon, or in the eve-
ning — we have not, as we ought, had a lively sense
of Thy presence, nor sought with full purpose of heart
Thy glory, nor walked with Thee all the day long,

Family Worship.

nor taken up as wo should self-denying work and
duty. Vain and worldly thoughts have too much
possessed our souls, and made us like those who live
as without God in the world. We have not called
on Thee. We have been weary of Thee. Blot out
all our transgressions for Thy name's s.ake, and
remember our sins no more. Renew our souls by
Thy grace ; and make us pure, even as Thou art
pure, and meet for the inheritance of the saints in
light.

Make all the changing scenes of this life to work
for our spiritual and eternal good. Make our eyo
single, and our whole body fall of light.

Bless every member of our family, our friends and
our neighbours \ let all receive a blessing from Thee
through our prayers. Help us to be lovers of hos-
pitality, and lovers of good men. May Thy Church
in our country be protected, preserved and prospered
continually, through Thy watchful care and good
providence from day to day.

Give us a lively interest in the prosperity of Thy
Church universal, and the increase of Thy kingdom.
Lord, grant these great blessings, speedily deliver
Thy people who may have been deceived by the
Mystery of Iniquity ; and fulfil Thy promises to
destroy the man of sin with the brightness of Thy
coming. Do Thou accomplish Thy promised mercy
and truth to Zion, and let all the ends of the
earth see Thy salvation. O grant our requests for
our Redeemer's sake. Amen.

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Fam^l^ Worship,

WKDNESDAY MORNING.

IjOllO our God, whether wc wake or sleep
we are still with Thee. Durii:i^ the hours
of darkness and slumber Thou hast guarded us from
evil. In our moments of unconsciousness, when un-
able to care for ourseWos, Thou hast made us Thy
care. And now we awake and behold, and our sleep
has been sweet unto us.

Let Thy Holy S[)irit bo granted to us, that we
may more clearly see the proofs of Thy goodness
and love. Thou hast provided for our bodily wants:
Thou luus given us food and raiment, health and
home. Thou hast provided for our spiritual wants :
Thou hast given liS Thy Holy Word with its trea-
sures of eternal truth, — Thy well-beloved Son, whose
atoning sacrifice and perfect life redeem us from sin,
and reveal Thine heart, — and Thy Holy Spirit who
cleanses us from evil, and shows to us the glory of
Christ. O help us to see Thy hand in all, and to
praise Thee with joyful lips. Bless the Lord,
our souls, and all that is within us bless His Holy
name.

O Lord our God, we know that in all the mercies
which Thou hast bestowed upon us, and especially
in the gift of Thy dear Son^ Thou dost seek to drav;
us away from self and sin to holiness and to Thee.
Grant us, then, Thy Spirit, that this Thy purpose
may be accomplished in us. May Thy goodness
subdue our pride and self-will, and bring us into

Family Worship.

Hiibjcction to Thy perfect will. May our hearts ho
wholly renewed ; may we hiuif^er and thirst after
righteousness, and be filled. Let that mind bo in
us which was also in Christ Jesus. May wo walk in
the truth, and may integrity and uprightness pre-
serve us. May love run through both our actions
and our words, and may we be gentle and patient
to all men.

Most Merciful Father, we commend to Thee all
that belong to this household, and all our relatives
and friends. Let them covet Thy favour above
earthly good, and aspire after conformity to the
image of Thy Son. Let them not be drawn iisido
from thu path of holiness by the snares that beset
them, but let them steadfastly cleave to Thee.

We pray Thee to bless all the family of mankind.
Let the ignorance and vice, the cruelty and oppres-
sion which darkcii the world, give place to light
and purity and love. Let war cease to the end of
the earth. Let the Prince of Peace reign in all hearts
and over all nations.

Most Gracious God, assist us this day in the duties
of our calling. Go forth with us in our work and
our labour until the evening. Give us the strength
and wisdom we need. Preserve us from the sins
into which we are liable to fall, and grant that when
the night comes we niay end the day with Thee,
even as now with Thee we seek to begin it ! Grant
us these mercies for the sake of t>esus Christ our
Lord. Amen.

Family Worship.

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WEDNESDAY EVENING

WHEREWITH shall we come before Thee O
Lord, or bov7 ourselves in Thy presence, O
Thou Most High God ? Cause us to come unto Thee
in faith, mentioning no other name, pleading no other
righteousness, and trusting in no other atonement,
than the name, righteousness, and atonement of Thy
blessed Son, our adorable Mediator, Jesus Christ. In
Him we desire to be found ; through Him we hope
ibr favour with Thee and acceptance in Thy sight.

Blessed be Thy name for the mercies of the past
day, for the blessings of Thy providence, and foi all
the comforts and privileges we enjoy. We thank
Thee that we have been protected from danger ; and,
above all, if we have been wi':hheld by Thy grace
from sinning against Thee.

O Lord, wash out the transgressions of the past
day. If Thou bhouldest deal with us after our sins,
or reward us according to our deservings, we could
not stand in Thy presence, nor be justified in Thy
sight. But we bless Thee for the grace and mercy
which Thou hast laid up for us in the righteousness,
sacrifice, and intercession of Him who is our advo-
cate with Thee, and the propitiation for our sins.
Continue Thy goodness towards us this night ; may
we, as the beloved of the Lord, dwell in safety by
Thee. Make us to rest under Thy defence, Thou
Most High, and to abide under the shadow of the
Almighty. Bless us with Thy presence, Thy grace,

Family Worship,

and Thy protection. Suffer not the enemy to have
any advantage over us; neither let the son of wicked-
ness approach to hurt us.

Be witli all Thy people everywhere ; may those
who are near and dear to us be near and dear to Thee ;
and whatever separation Thy good providence may
ordain for us on earth, may we meet with joy at Thy
right hand, at the appearing of our Lord and Saviour
Jesus Christ.

Bless all the nations. Maintain Thine own truths
and enlarge the kingdom of Thy Son. Regard with
favour the Church to which we belong, the vine
which Thine own right hand hath planted. Bless
owr Sovereign and every branch, of the royal family.
Pour down Thy grace upon all orders and degrees of
men among us, that they may be fearers of God,
lovers of truth, and workers of righteousness.
Strengthen and relieve those who labour under any
affliction in mind, body, or estate, and make all things
to work together for their good.

We beseech Thee to hear us, and grant us these
and ail other mercies, spiritual and temporal, only
for the sake of Jesus Christ the righteous. Amen.

Family Worship.

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THURSDAY MORNING.

OLORD GOD of heaven and of earth, Thou
art a great King above all gods. We confess
with shame and confusion of face our multiplied
sins against Thee and against our fellow-men. Spare
us, Lord God, and forgive us for Christ's sake. Turn
not Thy face away in displeasure, but have compas-
sion upon us, and accept our offerings of prayer and
praise. We beseech Thee, Lord, to give us Thy
gracious Spirit that we tempt not Christ, as some
of Thine ancient people tempted, and were slain in
the wilderness. Vouchsafe to keep us this day from
the sin of idolatry. Let us use this world as not
abusing it. Let our chief treasure be in heaven, and
our hearts be there also. And while diligent in
business, preserve us from covetousness which is
idolatry.

We praise and magnify Thee, Lord God of our
life, for another night's rest ; for sleep and safety in
the dark watches. Hitherto the Lord hath helped
us. And now that Thou hast raised us up again to
renewed life, let the dayspring of Thy favour visit
us from on high. May the Lord God be our sun
and shield. Direct, we beseech Thee, the path of
our feet. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver
us from evil. Lord, we entreat Thee, lay upon
us this day no burden which we are unable to bear;
no burden of sorrow or of temptation : with every
trial do Thou make a way for our escape ; and may

Family Worship,

we be able to do all things through Christ who
strengtheneth us.

Hear us, we pray Thee, on behalf of all our kin-
dred and all our acquaintance. Bring all our dear
relations into Thy family, and let Jesus, Thy well-
beloved Son, be the elder brother to all that are in
our household. Let no kinsman of ours be found
to be wanting when Thou, in the day of judgment,
numberest up Thy people.

We commend to Thee, Almighty Ruler of the na-
tions, our beloved country. Give peace in our time.
Sand us now prosperity. O God, bless our Sovereign
and all the royal family. Give grace to judges and
magistrates to execute justice and maintain truth.

We pray for all who suffer affliction, in mind, body
or estate; comfort and relieve them according to their
several necessities ; and may all their trials, though,
at present not joyous, but grievous, work at last for
good to them that are exercised thereby. And now
we will go through this day in the strength of the
Lord, and will make mention of His righteousness,
oven of His orly, end to Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit we will give all the praise for ever. Amen,

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Family Worship,

THUKSDAY EVENING.

MOST holy, blessed, and glorious Lord God,
whose we are, and whom we are bound to
serve, it is through Thy good hand upon us, that we
are brought in safety to the (;lose of another day ;
and that after the various employments of the day,
we come together at night to mention the loving-
kindness of the Lord, and the praises of our God,
who is good, and whose mercy endureth for ever.

It is to Thee alone that we are indebted for all
that we are, and for all that we enjoy ; bet we
have proved ourselves most ungrateful ard un-
profitable servants. We have broken Thy holy laws
times and ways to ourselves innumerable ; and this
day we have sinned and done foolishly. God,
Thou knowest our foolishness, and our sins are not
hid from Thee.

We beseech Thee, our God, to produce in our
hearts the grace of genuine repentance. Make us
sensible of the evil as well as of the danger of sin.
And enable us, not merely to mourn over it, but to
flee from it, and to take refuge in Christ, whose blood
alone can atone for the guilt of sin, and whose Spirit
alone can deliver us from its power.

We commit ourselves to Thee this niirht and de-
sire to dwell in the secret place of the Most High,
and to abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
Make a hedge of protection about us, and about our
house, and about all tbat we have, that no evil may

Family Worshijh

befall us and no plague come nigh our dwelling.
The Lord be our keeper, that neither slumbers nor
sleeps. Restore us, we beseech Thee, to another day
in safety, and fit us for its duties and labours, by re-
fresliing our bodies with quiet and comfortable sleep ;
and, when we awake, may we be still with Thee.

Lord, let our family be blessed in Him in whom
Thou hast promised that all the families of the earth
shall be blessed ; blessed with all spiritual blessings
in heavenly things, in Christ Jesus, and with tem-
poral blessings as far as Thou seest good for us. Give
us health and prosperity, but especially let our souls
prosper and be in health ; and let all that belong to
us belong to Christ, that we who are united on earth
may be together for ever with the Lord.

Rule in the hearts of our rulers. O Lord, bless
the Queen, and make all that are in places of pub-
lic trust faithful to the public interest ; and all that
bear the sword, a terror to evil doers, and a protec-
tion and praise to them that do well.

Comfort and relieve all that are in sorrow or
affliction, and lay no more upon them than Thou
wilt enable them to bear.

Do for us, we pray Thee, abundantly above what
we ask or think, for the sake of our blessed Saviour
Jesus Q\. -ist ; to whom with the Father, and the
eternal Spirit, be glory and praise, now and for
ever. Ajaen.

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Family Worship.

FRIDAY MORNING.

OLORD GOD ALMIGHTY, Thou art the
sovereign Lord of heaven and earth, against
whom all our sins have been committed, and by
whom alone they can be pardoned ; there is none
but Thee, by whom our iniquities can be subdued,
or our necessities supplied. But Thou art able, and
also ready, to hear and help, to bless and save Thy
people who call upon Thee ; Thou dolightest to show
mercy, and lovest the occasions of glorifying Thy
compassion. We come to Thee, therefore, Lord,
begging that mercy which Thou knowest we ex-
tremely want, and grace to help us in this our time
of need. We beg the same for the sake of Thine in-
finitely beloved Son, who alone is worthy, and in
whose precious blood is all our trust.

We are unclean, Lord, and tliou may est well abhor
our guilty souls ; but look upon us in the Son of
Thy love, and prepare us for the mercies which Thou
hast treasured up for us in Him. Make us to feel
the burden and the bitterness of our sins ; nor let
us ever attempt to covei and conceal them, lest they
find us out at the Jast, and overwhelm us with shame
and misery. Holy Father, carry on with power Thy
great work, even the work of faith, and the sanctifi-
cation of our souls. Quicken us, Lord God, and stir
us up to Thy work ; and assist us in the performance
of all our duties, which of ourselves Thou knowest
we are unable to perform. Work in us to will and

Family WorsMp.

to do of Thy good pleasure ; establish the things, O
God, which Thou hast already wrought for us ; and
go on to work mightily upon our hearts by Thy
grace till our souls are titted for the enjoyment of
Thy glory.

Gracious Lord, Thy mercies are fresh and new to
us every morning. We have laid us down and slept
and waked again, for Thou hast sustained us ; Thou
hast kept us from the terrors of the night, and from
all evil accidents, so that we have once more risen in
peace and safety. Glory be to Thee, God of our
salvation, who art still so mindful of us, so merciful
unto us. Continue, we y)ray Thee, Thy goodness tons
this day, and teach us how to demean ourselves
aright, and to order our ati'airs to Thy glory. O
direct our undertakings, and prosper our endeavours.
Rule our hearts in Thy fear and love, and keep us
living to Thy praise and honour. We now commit
ourselves to Thee, and shelter ourselves under the
shadow of Thy wings. O keep us from evil, and
help us to do that which is good and pleasing to our
God, through Jesus Christ. Give us. Lord, all that
we have asked aright ; forgive us all that we have
asked amiss ; and bestow on us all things need-
ful, which we should have asked, for the sake of
Thine own dear Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Amen.

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HA?>!}LTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Family Worship.

FRIDAY EVENING.

OGOD, most Holy, most mighty, and most
merciful, help us this night to enter into our
hccarts, and search ourselves, and give ourselves to
prayer and communion with Thee. If we say that
we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is
not in us. If we confess our sins. Thou art faitliful
and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from
all unrighteousness.

Forgive, we humbly beseech Thee, all the sinful de-
partures of thought and word and deed of which we
have this day been guilty. Forgive us wherein we
have broken Thy holy law, and lived without faith,
and in the love of pleasure more than of God. May
it please Thee to give repentance, and vouchsafe to
us meekness and lowliness of mind and heart and a
name and a place among Thy children. Bring us,
wehumbly beseech Thee,into fellowship with Christ's
Bufferings Grant that we may enjoy the indwelling
of the Holy Spirit and know that Christ is ours, and
that we are Christ's, and that Christ is God's.

Grant us, God, the assurance of spiritual quick-
ening. In all our duties and trials may we recog-
^nize thy presence, and feel that our souls are in Thy
keeping. May we be moved to holy obedience.
Every day that we live may we have a fuller vision
of the world everlasting. Be with us, we humbly
beseech Thee, this night. Bless our family circle.

M&MILTON PUBLIC LIBRARf

Familji Worship,

Defend IKS from danger and sudden death. Spare us,
if it be thy will, to a new day.

May it please Tliee to bless the nation. Grant
that all may speedily know Thee, and own Thee as
their King. Let Thy gracious influences be poured
out upon the Church. Hfisten the Lord's Coming
and Kingdom. Grant that the purity and unity
of Thy people may be increased. Be gracious to
the afflicted and the bei'eaved. Give light to them
in their darkness, and inward peace amid all their
trials. Bless all our friends and relatives and neigh-
bours. Grant that they may believe in Thee, and
have in Thee their hope and peace.

We again commend us unto Thee, God, beseech-
ing Thee to hear our evening prayer, for Christ'jj
sake. Amen,

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Faintly Worship.

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SATUKDAY MOUNING.

FATHER of lights, from whom proooedoth
every good and perfect gift, wo would lift up
our eyes unto Thee, who liast sustained us during
the nifdit. and restored to us the accustomed mer-
cies of the day. Helj) us, we beseech Thee, now
that we behold the returning liglit of the sun, to
apprehend Thee who art tlie light of the soul — light
perfect, i)urc, and holy, and in whom there is no
darkness at all.

Lord, if we would have fellowship with Thee
we must be like Thee. Our own consciences, and
our own experience, witness that there can be no
communion between light and darkness, no fellow-
ship between righteousness and urnighteousness^
We have to confess, Lord, that, while with Thee
there is no darkness at all, with us there is darkness
deep and defiling.

But, Thou who at the first didst command the
light to shine out of darkness, shine into our hearts,
to give us the light of the knowledges of Thy glory
ill the face of Jesus Christ. May we see Thee in
Him, as a reconciled Father, as willing to receive
graciously and to forgive freely,, even such sinners
as ourselves, and to make us Thy children, and heirs
of Thy kingdom. We come as suppliants to Thy
mercy-seat. We know that we have sinned; but
Christ has died ; we plead His blood. His righteous-
ness. Accept us, Lord as Thine ; and grant that,

Family Worskip.

being justified by faith in TTim, wo may have peace
with Thee, and rejoice in tlie liope of Thy glory.

Be witli UH, Lord, this day ; and grant that, m
tlie course of it, we may walk worthy of Thee who
hast callel us to a heavenly kingdom. May we be
sensible of Thy presence, and be in Thy fear all the
day long. Keep us fi'om all worldly, anxious, care-
ful, defiling thoughts; preserve us fn »m all unhal-
lowed desires and affections. May we set a watch
over our lips, that we offend not with our tongues.
May our words be with grace, seasoned with salt,
and our thoughts holy, pure, and heavenly, — such
thouofhts as filled the soul of Him who is our exam-
pic ; and our words like His, out of whose mouth no
guile ever proceeded.

Towards our fellow-men may wc be truthful, up-
right, kind and patient ; ready to forgive those who
have injured us, and laborious in doing good to all,
I]nable us to serve our generation according to Thy
will ; and, while we are in the world, to be doing
the work Thou hast assigned us.

But while in the world, let us not be o/the world;
may we live in the spirit of strangers and pilgrims,
waiting for the appearance of our Lord from heaven ;
and when He shall appear may we also appear with
Him in glory, and be made partakers of the inheri-
tance of the saints in light, through Him who loved
us, and gave Himself for us, our Lord and Saviour
Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Famili/ Worskip,
SATUUDAV EVENING.

ALMIGHTY and evcrlastin<^' God, author of our
heing, supporter of our lives, and source of
all our hopes hoth in tliis world and in t^-at which is
to conio, \V(3 lift up our evcnin;^' ])raycr to Thee, in
jukMovvlcdgincMtof Tiiy divin;' goodness, and of our
(!()ntinuid (k'i)('n<lenco upon Thoe.

Wo thank Th(;c for Thy merciful protection this
day. By Thee wo have been sustained ever since
wc were born ; and by Thy gracious care we are now
enal)]e(l to lie down in ])eace. Blessed be Thy name
if we have been in any measure preserved from evil.
We ar.j ex|M)sed U) dangers ; we live in the midst of
an ensnaring world; our own hearts are ever ready
to deceive us, and our great spiritual adversary goeth
about seeking whom he may devour. Lord, our
hope and confidence are only in Thee. Be Thou unto
us a rock of defence that we may be saved from the
power of our enemies.

We beseech Thee to pardon the sins which wo
have this day commit ^/^;d. Although we profess to
love Thy name, yet, in how many things do we con-
tinue to offend. We earnestly implore Thy pardon
in the name of Jesus Christ. Be Thou merciful to
us for our Saviour's sake ; and send Thy Holy Spirit
into our hearts, that wc may more deeply repent, and
may reform our lives, and be disciples of Christ
not in name only, but in deed and in truth.

Be pleased to sanctify to the good of our souls

Fumili/ Woviikip.

whatovor events have befallen us on this day. May
wo bo gathorinf^ wisdom from what wo sec around
us. When wo behold instances of patience ami h)n^-
sufforing, of meekness and gentleness, of loving-
kindness and charity, may we follow them ; and
wl»en wo witness the mortality of others, may we
bo reminded that our time also is short, and that
blessed is that man whom his Lord, when he Com-
eth, shall find watchini^.

Bless, we earnestly beseech Thee, our several
friends and relations. Be Thou bountiful to cur
benefactors. Show Thy special mercy to the chil-
dren of this family. Give wisdom to those who
shall be appointed to instruct them ; and provide
for them friends who shall guide them in the right
way, and shall prove a blessing to them to the end
of their lives.

We pray for the ministers of the Gospel, tliat they
may go forth in Thy strength, and preach Thy pure
and unadulterated word, and have abundant success ;
and for those who are sick or in trouble, that they
may patiently endure the affliction of the Lord, and
in due time find deliverance. We thus commend to
Tliy gracious care both ourselves and others ; and
we desire to lie down in perfect charity with all men.

Lord, hear us in these our prayers, for Jesus
Christ's sake ; to whom, with Thee and the Holy
Ghost, be all honour and jQ;lory, world without end.
Amen,

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Family WorsJup.

StC0nb Mcch.

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SABBATH MOENIISG.

OLORD, from everlasting to everlasting Tlioii
art God, and all times and seasons are Tliini'.
Thou inliabitest eternity, and hearest the praises of
blessed ancfels in the heaven of heavens. But Thou
also, in Tliy fiitherly kindness, condescendest to in-
cline Tliine ear to the voice of our supplications, and
givest us our appointed periods of rest and retire-
ment to meditate on Thy ways, and seek and servo
Thee here below.

We desire to bless Thee, Thou giver of all good,
for every day of mercy which Thou hast been pleased
to grant us ; but, above all we bless Thee for the
wv^ekly return of the Lord's day, with all its calming
and spiritualizing influences. O may we esteem it
honourable, and count it among our most precious J
privileges, that we are blessed with such a season for
our instruction, and converse with Thee in Christ.

When we think of the great works of creation
and redemption, with which its appointment stands
connected, and of the ever blessed rest that remaineth
on high for the people of God, to which it points,
may these contemplations solenmize our minds, and
prepare us for its holy duties. May it be to us a
rest from sin and worldly cares and vanities, and
from everything at variance with the heavenly nu-

Family Worship,

ture of tbc service for which it was ordained ; but
not a rest from any act of duty which Thou hast
commanded.

Prepare our hearts for meeting with Thee in Thy
house of prayer ; and when we mingle in the assem-
bly of Thy people, may the true spirit of worshij,
regulate our thoughts, and lift up our affections to
Thee. Give us the attentive ear, and the understand-
ing heart, that the preaching of Thy word,— of Christ
crucified, — may be precious to us, and may leave up-

on our minds a lively and lasting impr

Vuu

May

Thy servant, who is to minister to us Thy word of
life, speak with all faithfulness and effect, the truths
which Thou hast commissioned him to deliver to
a sinful people. May Thy Spirit be upon him, that
he may delight in Thy work, and be blessed in his
ministrations, his family, and hi;? flock. May Thy
servants be enabled everywhere to speak a word
in season to many perishing sinners, and be the
honoured instruments, in Thy hand, of turning them
to righteousness and the way of salvation.

Give likewise Thy blessing, O God, to all our fel-
low worshippers this day, in this place and else-
where, whether they worship Thee in public or pri-
vate. May Thy Spirit work in them, both to will
and to do of Thy good pleasure, and bring them
unto Thee with acceptance, through the merits of
Him who intercedes for them at Thy right hand.
Our prayers, O Lord, are now before Thee; grant us
an answer in peace, ior Christ's sake. Amen.

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Family Worship,
SABBATH EVENING.

OLORD our God, Thou art infinitely good, and
Thou hast showed us what is good, and what
Thou requirest of us, that it may go well with us,
both now, and to all eternity. We have line upon
line, and precept upon precept ; Thou send est Thy
messengers early and late, to open and apply Thy
word ; to give us calls and warnings, directions and
exhortations ; and to promote by all possible means
our edification here, and our salvation for ever. Thou
hast not been wanting to us, Lord, but we have
been exceedingly wanting to ourselves ; for we have
loved darkness rather than light, and chosen to fol-
low our own foolish and hurtful lusts, rather than
be guided by Thy blessed word.

Lord God, merciful and gracious, we humbly
beseech Thee that Thou wilt not so enter into judg-
ment with Thy servants ; but in mercy pardon all
our contempt of Thy word, and our abuse of all the
means of grace which Thou hast aflforded us. Help
us, for the time to come, to use and improve such
gracious opportunities to the glory of Thy name,
and the benefit of our own souls.

Let Thy good Spirit bring Thy word to our re-
membrance, and cause it to be an engrafted word,
able and effectual to save our souls.

And as we have been taught how we ought to
walk, and to please Thee our God, so help us to walk
more worthy of Thee ; and to be more ready to

Family Worship.

every good work, which may be pleasing in Thy
sight through Jesus Christ.

O merciful God, we beg Thy gracious acceptance
of owv praise and thanksgiving, for all the blessings
which Thou hast so freely conferred upon us, and so
long continued to us. Thou hast dealt graciously
with us, blessed Lord, and been exceedingly kind
to us, not only beyond all that we have reason to ex-
pect, but above all that we are able to express. We
acknowledge Thee in aP , and we desire to ascribe
unto Thee all the praise and the glory. Particularly
would our souls now bless Thee for the mercies which
we have experienced this day ; for Thy house open
to us ; for the word of salvation sounded in our ears ;
and for Thy blessed Spirit striving with our hearts.

In mercy pardon all which Thy pare and holy
eyes have seen amiss this day, in any of our thoughts,
our words or actions. Forgive the iniquities of our
holy things, and overlook all our failings and imper-
fections for the sake of our great Mediator and
Redeemer, who ever lives at Thy right hand to make
i t* vi'ession for us. To Him as the blessed author
oi > ii hopes and happiness; and to Thee who didst
vouchsafe to deliver Him up for us ; and to that
blessed Spirit who has revealed Him to us, be all
praise, and honour, and glory ascribed, now and for
evermore. Amen.

t /I

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fel:

Family fVorship.

MONDAY MORNING.

WE believe, our gracious God, the faithful-
ness of Thy word ; and we are sure that
Thou the God of Israel and of the whole earth, the
same Lord over all, art rich unto all that call upon
Thee. In this confidence, we now unite ourselves
to the blessed company who in every place call upon
Thy name ; assured that what we ask according to
Thy will, in the name of Jesus Christ, we shall
obtain, and shall certainly find what we thus seek.
Lord, we believe ; help Thou our unbelief. At the
commencement of this week's labours, we pray that
we may live in the spirit of those sei vices of Thy
house in which we were yesterday engaged. Let
holiness to the Lord be inscribed on our commonest
service. Let every day be as a Sabbath ordinance.
May we set our hearts with all fixedness and zeal, to
run with patience our Christian race. May we ear-
nestly seek first Thy kingdom and Thy righteousness.
Help us to take fast hold of Thy covenant, to
put away every sin with abhorrence, to choose
always those things which please Thee, and to keep
judgment and do justice. May we never slight
or neglect Thy truth, but treasure it up in our hearts.
Give us true and saving faith, and suffer us not
by unbelief to lose the great and glorious privileges
of Thy eternal kingdom. Prepare us by Thy grace
to be meet partakers of them, and hasten the conimi,'
of that kinordom.

Family JVorskip.

Fountain of light and life, of grace and love, we
bless and praise Thee, for Thou art good and
gracious ; Thy mercy is great above the heavens, and
Thy truth reacheth unto the cbi^J^. Be Thou exalted
above the heavens, and Thy glory above all the earth.
Abundantly have we been blessed by Thee in body
and in soul ; in merciful provision for all our wants,
for time and for eternity. Above all, we thank Thee
for that mystery of godliness, Jesus our Saviour,
God over all, who was manifest in the flesh, justified
in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto us Gen-
tiles, believed on in the world, and received up into
glory.

Still bless us, Lord, and do us good. Thy bless-
ing alone maketh rich without sorrow. Thy blessing
turns us fvom all our iniquities. Let the thoughts of
our hearts, and the words of our lijxs, and the actions
(jf our life, be under Thy governance — guided by Thy
word, and quickened by Thy Spirit, — so shall they
be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, our strength and
our Redeemer.

From our own blessed experience of Thy light
and truth, let us and Thy whole Church and people
everywhere communicate light and truth to all
around. Give us grace to occupy every talent,
for Thee, till we are called to give account with jo}/
in Thy presence. Hear us, O our Redeemer, to
whom, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, be all
glory, now and evermore. Amen.

-i ■ I

i,!.'

Family Worship.

L I

MONDAY EVENING.

OLORD GOD ALMIGHTY, who knowest all
things, and understandest the secrets of every
heart, suit Thy mercies, we pray, to our necessities ;
and grant unto all the members of this family such
things as Thou seest to be most needful for us.

We pray Thee especially to bring our hearts into
full obedience to Thy Gospel. Take away from us
all pride, impenitency, and unbelief; all undue love
of this present world, all inordinate affection, and
every evil inclination. Take from us everything
which opposes itself to the knowledge of Thy truth,
and is contrary to the spirit of Thy grace.

May we humble ourselves as cliildren in Thy
sight ; receiving, in sincerity and simplicity of heart,
the various doctrines of Thy word. Give us, also,
grace to maintain a Christian spirit, and to abound
in every good work. May we be patient, and con-
tented, and thankful for our lot in life ; praising and
blessing Thee for all our providential as well as
spiritual mercies ; imploring the continuance of Thy
favour, and jealous over ourselves, lest, by any evil
habits which we indulge, we draw down Thine anger
upon us. Make us strict in our integrity, sincere in
every word, faithful in every trust, diligent in every
duty, amiable in every temper of our lives. May
we be zealous to do honour to the cause of Thy
Gospel, and thus recommend the religion of Christ.
Teach us to exercise all those virtues which shone

Family Wor^ship.

so brightl}' in our Lord, and give us grace to testify,
on every occasion, our abhorrence of evil.

At the same time, may we remember our exceed-
ing sinfulness ; and thus learn to bear with all the
various infirmities of others. Give us courage and
integrity to exhort one another daily lest any of us
be hardened through the dcceitfulness of sin ; and
teach us, in the spirit of love, to serve Jind edify one'
another.

^^d now, O Lord, wherever we have this day
failed in the performance of our duty, and in the
exercise of any Christian temper, or wherever we
have in any respect ofiended Thee, we implore Thy
pardon, in the name of Jesus Christ.

Take us under Thy protection this night; may
we be safe under the shadow of Thy wings; may
we commit ourselves to Thee, in peace and comfort.
May Thy Gospel be our consolation, in our lying
down, and in our rising up ; may it be an ever-pre-
sent source of happiness to us ; may it lighten every
trial, and reconcile us to every disappointment. May
there be no place or time, no situation or circum-
stance, when the satisfaction which it imparts shall
entirely leave us ; but, under its blessed influence,
may our hearts be ever filled with thankfulness, and
our lips with praises.

And all we ask is in the name of Jesus Christ,
our only Saviour and Mediator. Amen,

'.\i I

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Family Worship.

t' !'! I

Hii

TUESDAY MORNING.

ALMIGHTY and eternal God, our Creator, and
Preserver, and continual Benefactor, we de-
sire to begin tlii« day with the acknowledgment of
Thy power and goodness, and of our obligation to
love and serve Thee ; and we beseech Thee to grant
us grace to pass the whole of it in Thy fear, and in
the fulfilment of Thy commandments.

Thouhastconnnanded to each of us our work in life
Lord, enable us diligently to perform our respec-
tive duties. Let us not waste our time in unprofit-
ableness or idleness, nor be unfaithful to any trust
committed to us. Let us remember that Thine eye
is upon us ; and let us have the testimony of our
consciences, that, in simplicity and godly sincerity,
we have our conversation in the world. Let truth be
ever on our lips. Help us. Lord, to perform a kind and
Christian part to all who may come under our in-
fluence. Mav we labour to do them service, and con-
tinually deny ourselves that we may the more
effectually and abundantly minister to the wants of
others. May we rejoice with them that rejoice, and
weep with them that weep; and be kindly affectioned
one to another, with brotherly love, in honour prefer-
ring one another.

O Lord, we beseech Thee to give us patience to
bear the several trials and vicissitudes of life, with
an equal and contented mind. Let us not be per-
plexed with the cares of this world, nor overwhelmed

Family Worship,

with unnecessary fears ; but let us ever trust Tli y
gracious provideneo, and hope in Thy goodness and
mercy.

Give to us, when we are in prosperity, a spirit of
moderation and sobriety. Save us from pride, an<
from self-indulgence. Deliver us from the too gieat
love of earthly things ; and teach us to remember
that it is Thou who givest us all things richly to
enjoy.

Bless unto us the afflictivo circumstances through
which we may pass. May we see Thy hand in all
Thy various dispensations, and adore Thee for the
several events of Thy providence ; knowing that,
if wo truly love and serve Thee, all things shall
work together for our good.

We commend to Thy kind and fatherly care all
our friends and relations. Direct, O Lord, their steps
in life, and bless them with all heavenly blessings
in Jesus Christ. Vouchsafe unto them the pardon
of their sins, and the blessed hope of eternal life.

We pray for the rising generation. May they
remember their Creator in the days of their youth ;
and find Thee to be their refuge in all the scenes
through which they pass.

Have mercy on all who are in any sorrow or trouble.
Do Thou p ovide for them through the riches of Thy
mercy, and send special help in their hour of need.

We offer these our imperfect prayers in the name
of Jesus Christ our Saviour. AifRtn.

i'l

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Itintj

TUESDAY EVENING.

A LMIOHTY GOD, all blessings flow from Thee.
/-% At the close of another day, wo desire, as a
lainily, to approach Thy footstool, pi (fading the
atonement of Christ, and desiring to take Thee at
Thy word, and to rest on thy promises. Every day
which comes and goes brings with it pledges and assur-
ances of Thy goodness and love. Grant that we
may have grateful hearts to Thee this evening for
what we have this day experienced.

Almighty God, we acknowledge before Thee all our
short-comings and offences this day, all our wayward-
ness and unthank fulness. Have mercy upon us.
Bless us with the sanctifying influences of the Holy
Spiri t. May we have the pardon and forgiveness of all
our sins, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Turn not
away Thy face fiom us, nor our prayer from Thee.
Deliver us, we humbly beseech Thee, from self right-
eousness and presumption. Let Thy mercy spare us,
God ! Give us a closer and more intimate acquain-
tance with Thyself, and a deeper and a livelier
insight into the depravity of our own hearts. Grant
that we may receive Thy enlightenment, and the
blessed experience of 1 nine indwelling. Create with-
in us a clean heart, renew within us a right spirit,
that we may be careful of all our ways. Help us to
watch and pray. May we ever live as in Thy sight.
Suffer U3 never to ftill from Thy service. Help us to
overcome every difficulty in our Christian course.

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and rise to still higher attainments therein. Grant
that seeming evils may be turned into real blessings,
and loving corrections tend to further advancement.

Take us, we humbly beseech Thee, this night un-
der Thy protection. May we be at peace with Thee
and with one another, and with all men. Give us
refreshing sleep. Be as a wall of fire around our
dwelling, defending us from everything that might
hurt or destroy. Grant that, in the morning, we may
awake to know Thy goodness, and to serve Thee in
ft new day.

Bless our country, its rulers, its commerce, its
benevolent institutions, its schools, its churches — all
agencies within it operating for the public good.
Be gracious to our beloved Sovereign, and to all
the members of the royal family. May they be an
example of piety and every virtue to all the
people. Bless the Church of God everywhere. May
all its members be united in the bonds of Christ.
Grant that the afflicted and the dying may obtain
light in darkness, and comfort and joy in all their
trials and sorrows. May all our relatives and friends
be blessed with the peace which passeth understand-
ing, and walk in Thy law.

Hear and answer these our petitions, for Christ's
sake. Amen.

Family Worship,

(;:i

i;.'„'ti

WEDNESDAY MORNING.

OLORD OOD, most holy and most merciful, wo
coino before Tlieo this morning', as a family
with confidence, desiring to ground our petitions or)
the merits of Thy well-beloved Son. May we have
a sincere desire to })e washed fron) all our sins in
the blood of Christ. Give us the assurance of our
forgiveness through Him. More and more, may we
be able to say, being justified by faith, we have peace
with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grant, God, that we may be conformed to Thy
holy will. Give us tlie meekness, and the gentleness
and the forbearance of Jesus. Increase our faith.
Grant that the Holy Spirit may be with us this da}^
to purify our hearts, and raise our feelings and «
tions into harmony with Thy law. Deliver us from
strife and envy, and from evil thoughts and unholy
tempers. May our common life be more hallowed
by Chn;stian motives. May our responsibility to
Thee, irnd our dependence upon Thee, be felt by us
more powerfully, and be shown more fully in our
lives. May we evermore see the littleness and the
emptiness of earthly things, in comparison with those
that are heavenly, and use the world as not abusing
it. To all our duties this day may we carry the
righteous and kindly spirit of the Gospel. May we
have grace to show in all things that we are not of
the world. Preserve us, O God, for in Thee do we
j)ut our trust.

Famih/ Wont/iip.

May it [)leaso Tlieo to prosper the church ofClirist.
Bless her faithful ministers and teachers and mission-
aries everywhere. CJrant tlwit jill jnrrings and un-
worthy jealousies may cease, and that Christians may
love one another and provoke; one another to good
works. r-Iave mercy on all wlio an; living separate
from Thee, satistied with Avhat this woijd can give.
May they V)0 drawn to seek ha[)[)incss in a re-
conciled God and Saviour.

Be gracious' to all who are in places of trust and
Authority. Give them grace to use well the steward-
ship into which Thon hast put them. May rich and
poor alike be partakers of the riches of Thy grace,
and be poor in spirit, trusting in the Lord. Manifest
Thyself to the afflicted and Llio dying everywhere.
Uphold them by Thy grace. We commend to Thy
special care the young, and all who are dear to us by
the ties of friendship and blood. Grant that they
may have faith, and give evidence of the same by
doinjr what Thou commandest. And all that we ask
is for Christ's sake, Thy Son, and our Redeemer.
Amen,

fAm

li:,!',

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Famihj WorMp.

4:J

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WEDNESDAY EVENING.

OLORD our God, grant iis grace to desire Thee
with our whole heart ; that, so desiring, we
may soek and find Thee ; and so finding Thee, may
love Thee ; and loving Thee, may hate those sins
from which Thou hast redeemed us.

Grant unto us, we pray Thee, repentant hearts ;
contrite spirits ; eyes that can weep for sin ; hands
that can help the needy. Quench in us, Ihou
Lord of our life, all sinful desires; and kindle, instead
thereof, the fire of holy love. our Eedeemer,
take from us the spirit of pride, and enrich us witli
the treasure of true humility. Cleanse our hearts
from the evil passions of anger, malice, envy, and all
uncharitableness ; and make us patient, kind and
tender-hearted. Grant unto us a perfect faith, a sure
hope, and a love that never failcth.

Preserve us, we beseech Thee, from all vanity, in-
constancy of mind, and wavering of heart ; from all
evil speaking, slander and falsehood. Deliver us
from the desire of riches ; from ambition and vain
glory : keep us from hypocrisy and flattery, fioni
contempt of the poor, and oppression of the weak.
Take from us all frowardness of heart, all s])irit of
boasting ; all idleness and sloth ; all pride, wrath,
unthankful ncss, unh oliness.

And, merciful God, fill our hearts, wo ])ray Thee
with the graces of Thy Holy Spirit, — with love, joy,
peace, long-suflTering. gentleness. goodness, faitli.

Family Worshij?.

mecknoss, temperance. Teach us to love those who
hate us ; to pray for those who despitefully use us ;
that we may be the children of Thee, our Father,
who makest Thy sun to shine on the evil and on the
good, and sendest rain on the just and on the un-
iust.

In adversity, gnirit us grace to be i)atier.t ; in
prosperity, keep us humble ; may v/e guard the door
of our lips ; may we lightly esteem tne pleasures of
the world, and thirst after heavenly things.

Thy coming, Lord, Thou judge of all, will be
manifest. Thou wilt call to the heavens from above
and to the earth, that Thou may^st judge Thy peo-
ple. In Thy presence shall all iniquity be discovered
and every secret sin made known. God, our
strength, no flesh shall be justified in Thy sight ;
who then shall stand before Tlieo 'i O Lord Jesus,
our only refuge, our Saviour and our Deliverer, our
hope is in Thee. Thou art our saving health. Thy
lips have called us, and we have heard Thy voice.
Thou hast guided us with Thy counsel ; wilt Thou
not also bring us to Thy glory ? We beseech Thee,
Almighty Father ; we beseech Thee, well-beloved
Son of God, our merciful Redeemer ; we beseech
Thee, Holy Spirit the Comforter, so lead and guide
us that at the last we may be brought unto Thy
holy hill, and to thy dwelling. Amen.

IB
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^iiiaiiii

'ifciiii

Family Worship.
THURSDAY MORNING.

OLORD^ our heavenly Father, who knowest
our necessities before we ask, we confess
unto Thee our sins, and acknowledge Thy mercy ;
beseeching Thee to free us wholly, and to perfect that
Thou hast begun, that we. ceasing to be miserable
in ourselves, may be blessed in Thee.

Lord our God, give ear unto our prayer, and
let Thy mercy hearken unto our desires. We would
offer unto Thee the service of our thoughts and
tongues ; do Thou give unto us that which we may
present unto Thee. We are poor and needy, but Thou
art rich unto all that call upon Thee.

Cleanse, we beseech Thee, both our hearts and lips
from all presumption and fiiLsehood. Let Thy Scrip-
tures be our pure delight, and give us grace so to
read them and speak of them, that we deceive not
nor be deceived. Hearken unto us, Lord our God,
Thou Light of the blind and Strength of the weak ;
yea also, Light of those that see, and Strength of
the strong. The day is Thine, and the night is
Thine; grant us space to meditate in the hidden
things ot Thy law, and close it not against us who
Knock. Let us not search into it in vain ; but per-
fect us, Lord, and reveal unto us Thy holy mys-
teries. Give unto us that which we desire, for the
desire cometh from Thee ; forsake not, we pray Thee,
Thine own gift.

We ask not of Thee, Father, silver and gol(A.

Family Worship,

honour and glory, nor the pleasures of the flesh :
but do Thou grant us grace to seek Thy kingdom
and Thy righteousness, and do Thou add unto us
things necessary for the body and for ti.is life. Be-
hold, Lord, our desire ; may it be pleasing in Thy
sight. We present our petition unto Thee through
our Lord Jesus Christ, who is at Thy right hand, our
Mediator and Advocate, through whom Thou sough t-
est us that we might f=:cc!k Thee ; Thy word, through
whom Thou madest us and all things ; Thy only be-
gotten, through whom Thou callest us to adoption ;
who intercedeth with Thee for us, and in whom are
Jiid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. To
Him, with Thyself, and the Holy Spirit, be all hon-
our, praise, and glory, now and for ever. Amen,

Irl''

Family Worship.

THUKSDAY EVENING.

O HEAVENLY Father, accept through Jesus
our evening offering of prayer and praise.
How many have been Thy thoughts of love towards
us ; how great is the sum of them ! How safely
we have gone out and come in, and how kindly have
all our wants been provided for ! But herein most
especially hast Thou shown Thy love toward us,
that Thou hast sent Thy Son to lay down His life
for us, not as friends, but enemies. Our thanks be to
Thee for this unspeakable gift.

Once, indeed, we were enemies to Thee by wicked
works ; but now, through the blood of Jesus recon-
ciled, Thou callest us friends. Accept graciously at
our hands whatever we have done for Thy sake and
in Thy strength this day ; and in Thy mercy forgive
whatsoever Thy holy eyes have seen amiss in us.
Of many short-comings and iniquities we ourselves
are conscious , but how many more must have been
manifest in Thy sight ! Blot out our iniquity as a
cloud, and as a thick cloud our sins. Receive us
graciously and love us freely. Help us, Lord, to
take gratefully at Thy hands whatever good Thou
sendest, and to bear submissively every trial. Shall
not aU Thy will be love ? Like as a father pitieth
his children, so Thou pitiest them that fear Thee ; for
Thou knowest our frame, and rememberest that we
are but dust. Be our refuge in every sorrow, our
strength when heart and flesh faileth; and when

Family Worship,

Thou callest us to walk through the valley of the
shadow of death, let Thy presence cheer our path,
and Thy hand sustain our steps.

And now, heavenly Father, we commit ourselves
fco Thy care througli the night on which we are en-
tering. While darkness covers us, and dangers are
round about, let Thine ever open eye be upon us, and
Thine almighty power be our guard. If it please
Thee, give us sleep ; or if our eyes be held waking,
in the multitude of our thoughts within us, let Thy
comfort delight our souls. If we see another morning,
rejoice us with the light of Th^^ countenance, and
take our renewed life again under Thy guidance and
care ; or if our eyes open no more on earth, receive
us to Thy fatherly arms, and to that happier world
where there is no night, no weariness, and no sorrow.
Blessed be Thy name, God of our mercy, for
the sweet hopes with which we are permitted to
close this day. And now having by prayer and sup-
plication, with thanksgiving, made known our re-
quests unto God, may the peace of God, which
passeth all understanding, keep our hearts and minds
through Christ Jesus ; to whom, with Thee, Holy
Father and the Blessed Spirit, be equal and ever-
lasting praise. Amen,

Family Worship.

FRIDAY MOENING.

OLORD our God, most high iind mighty, most
wise and holy, most just and good! Thou
art, and ever wast, and ever shalt continue, unspeak-
ably blessed and glorious, above all that we are able
to express or to conceive. Thou humblest Thyself even
when Thou beholdest the things that are in heaven,
or regardest the worship of those blessed creatures
above. 0, how wonderful is Thy condescension then,
that Thou shouldst look down upon us, poor sinful
worms, who dwell in houses of clay, and whose
foundation is in the dust ! Lord, Avhat is man that
Thou takest knowledge of him, and the son of man
that Thou makest account of him. Thou canst not
at all need us, or anything of ours, blessed God,
but we all stand in continual need of Thee, our only
sovereign good ; in need of Thy mercy and forgive-
ness, Thy grace and guidance, Thy blessing and as-
sistance ; without which we can never hope to
escape the misery which is the wages due to our sins,
nor ever to attain that glory which is the free gift
of God in Christ Jesus.

Remember not against us our former iniquities ;
enter not into judgment with us, according to our
desert ; but according to Thymercy remember Thou
us, for Thy goodness' sake, Lord. Blot out our
transgressions as a cloud; and justify us freely by
Thy grace, through the redemption that is in Christ
Jesus. Bless us, God of our salvation, in turning

Family Worship,

us from our iniquities, and in giving us grace that
we may repent and amend our lives according to
Thy holy word.

Quicken us, Lord, to hear Thy voice, while it is
called to-day ; that we may make haste and not de-
lay, to keep Thy commandments. Keep us mind-
ful of the shortness of our time, and make us more
deeply concerned for our everlasting welfare, and
more careful to improve every present good for our
soul's eternal advantage. Let the work of Th}/
grace be daily advancing in our hearts, that we may
grow in grace as we grow in years, and be contin-
ually ripening for the full enjoyment of Thy glory.

The same things we beg also in behalf of all whom
we ought to remember in our prayers. forgive the
sins, and relieve the miseries of Thy sinful creatures
throughout the world. Enlarge the borders of Thy
Church, and add to it daily such as shall be saved.
that all who are called Christians may be Christians
indeed ; not only believing Thy word, but walking
as becometh the gospel of Christ.

Be merciful tu us, good Lord, and bless us, and keep
us this day, in all our ways. Renew^ to us day by
day thy pardoning mercy, and supply us daily with
Thy grace ; and all that we ask is in the name, and
for the sake, of our holy Redeemer, to whom, with
Thyself, Father, and the Holy Ghost our comforter,
be all praise and honour and glory ascribed, now
and for evermore. ATYien.

I $"

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f:t-

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FRIDAY EVENING.

MOST Holy and ever blessed God, may it
please Thee to assist us to offer up unto
Thee our evening sacrifice in sincerity and ])urity of
heart. Thou knowest us altogether. We would
not seek to hide ourselves, or disguise anything
from Thee ; but, in humility and lowliness of spirit,
make confession, relying upon Thy mercy in Christ.
Each moment of our lives is a witness to Thy
love and to our dependence upon Thee. Thou
hast visited us with salvation, and enlightened us
when we were in darkness, and spoken to us in ac-
cents of joy, when we were bowed down with sorrow.
We acknowledge, O God, that we are unworthy of
Thy love and regard ; that we are out of harmony
with Thee ; that we have forgotten Thy holy law,
and yielded ourselves to sense aud sin. May it
please Thee to give us Thy Sj)irit according to our
weakness. May we be fo^^iven. May our sins be
all washed away in the blood of Jesus. Grant that
we may have a sense of forgi veness and acceptance.
May we experience the confidence of those who can
say, God is our refuge and strength, therefore will
we not fear. May it please Thee to draw our hearts
away from the trifles of earth, and enable us to
centre them evermore iip')ii Thyself Grant that
the spirit of obedience may be within us ; and thai
while we are saved by grace, our faith may work by
love, and yield fruit unto Thy glory. Deliver us

Family Worship,

from all confidence in ourselves, and all trust in any
creature. Deliver us from the evils of sin. Grant
that the life of Christ may be manifest in our mor-
tal bodies. Help us to feel it to be our duty and
privilege to seek a closer walk with Thee, to be
faithful in the present, and hopefully to await the
future.

We desire to cast ourselves on Thee, as a family,
throughout the coming night. Grant that the shield
of Thy protection may be over us. Raise us in peace
and safety to a new day, and fit us for whatever lies
before us therein.

We beseech Thee, with ourselves, to bless ail men.
make Thy Church throughout the world a faithful
witness to Thy gospel. May those who are in the
spring-time of their life receive into their hearts
the fruitful seeds of Thy truth. Be gracious to the
aged. May they have a living union with Thee, and
experience thjtt peace which the world can neither
give nor take away. Manifest Thyself to the aflflicted,
and especially to those who are drawing near to the
gates of death. May the influence of the Holy Spirit
be upon them ; and may each of them be enabled to
3ay, I know whom I have believed. Grant that our
relatives and friends, and all who have an interest
^n our prayers, may be included in Thy covenant love.

And all that we ask is for Christ's sake. Amen.

! I

Family Worship.

SATURDAY MORNING.

OLORD our God, how excellent is Thy name
in all the earth ! We desire to unite with
all Thy people, who praise Thee continually for 'J'hy
daily blessings. How great is the sum of them day
by day ! We thank Thee for the unbroken rest of
the night, and for the renewed health and strength
bestowed upon us this morning; for the bounty
which spreads our table with food, and fills our
house with gladness ; for all the comforts of family
love, and the happiness of a peaceful home. But,
above all, we bless Thee for the excellency of the
knowledge of Christ Jesus, and free salvation through
Him; the forgiveness of all our sins, and our justi-
fication through His blood; and the gift of Thy
Spirit to teach, guide, sanctify, and comfort us, day
by day. How gracious Thine assurance that all
things shall work together for good to them that
love Thee ; and how blessed the well-grounded hope
that goodness and mercy shall follow us all the days
of our life, and that we shall dwell in the house of
the Lord for ever !

let Thy loving-kindness constrain us, so that
we may no longer live to ourselves, but to Him who
died for us. We mourn over that dreadful aliena-
tion, and blindness of mind and heart, which has so
often separated us from our Creator, Redeemer, and
Sanctifier ; from our best fiiends, and our highest
joy. We mourn over the unbelief, the darkness, and

Fa niily \ Vorsh ip.

the coldness of our evil lieartH, towards Him in
whom every hope should bo centred ; to whom every
affection should be consecrated. Cleanse Thou the
thouj^hts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy
Holy Spirit. Grant that our time may be redeemed
for Thee; and help us in all our thoughts and works
and words, to seek only Thy glory, Thy kingdom,
and Thy righteousness.

Help us this day so to prepare beforehand, that
by Thy good providence we may have a quiet, un-
di.aurbed and holy rest on Thy sabbath. Bless
Thy ministers in preparing for their public duties.
Bless our church. May true religion continually
increase among us. Bless our rulers and our coun-
try, and may they seek Thy honour as their highest
end and great reward. Let Christian union and
love more and more increase among Thy people, and
may they be all one, as Thou, Father, art one with
Thy Son. Enlarge the blessed company of Thy
saints daily. Prosper Thy Church in every land ;
bring back Thy people Israel. Gather Thy elect
from the Gentiles. Hasten the day of Christ, and
the perfect joy of Thy people in their gathering to-
gether to Him. We ask all for His name's sake.
Amen.

Family Worship.

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SATUKDAY EVENING.

OLORD GOD, our heavenly fatlier, who pio-
servest ns from week to week, and contin-
ually renewe.stTliy various mercies to us; — we kneel
down this evenirig, desiring to express our grati-
tude and love to Thee, who art the Author of our
hoing, and the source of all our happiness.

We thank Thee, tliat while so many thousands
are sutl'eriiig in misery and want, we are ])rovided
with innumerable comforts, and are })as8ing day after
day in quietness and peace. As we look back on
our days which are passed, and consider our lot in
life, may we become more thankful for all that
goodness which is showered down upon us, and more
earnest in employing the opportunities and talents)
which are given to us. We would now, especially,
lament our mis-spent time, and neglected opportu-
nities, and all our other sins, during the past week.
How many sinful thoughts have we indulged; how
many hasty and unbecoming woi'ds have we uttered ;
and how little has it been in our minds to exercise
every Christian grace ! We lament, also, the cold-
ness of our hearts in our religious duties. Though
instructed in the affecting truths of the gosj)el, and
blessed with the knowledge of Christ crucified for
us, we confess that we have I)een listless and luke-
warm in our worsliip ; too nmch alienated from the
life of God, and too much occupied with the cares
of this world. We now present ourselves before

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Tliuu, freely confessing these our sins and imploring
Thy forgiveness ia the name of Jesus Christ ; and
we would lie down this night trusting in His all-
sufficient sacrifice on the cross for us, and looking
for Thy mercy unto eternal life.

We pray that, being thus prepared, we may go
forth on the ensuing Sabbath to hear Thy gospel,
% ith teachable and submissive minds. May we re-
cc. ^e the seed sown, into good and honest hearts.
Ma) the gospel of our salvation be the ch^^i desire
oi' oui niinds, and the consolation of ci\ our hearts.
As the saoo'^th returns may we weh jme the joyful
sound, and blcb^ *hat God, who r jt only increases
our temporal mercies, uuu also sets before us the
hope of everlasting life.

Confirm the wavering in the ways of true religion.
May they see that godliness has the promise of the
life which now is, as well as of the life which is to
come. May they, also, be convinced of their sins,
and experience what is that peace of conscience
wliich the Gospel brings to the truly humble and
penitent.

To Thee do we now commit ourselves, beseeching
Thee to bless every member of this family. May
we lie down in the fear of God, in the faith of
Christ, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost; and
may we rise in the morning, rejoicing in our Christian
privileges, and desiring to employ the sabbath in
Thy service. Hear us, O Lord, in these our supplica-
tions for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

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Family Worship.

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SABBATH MOENING.

HEAVENLY Father, who hast in Thy gra-
cious providence kept us in safety through the
watches of the night, accept our sacrifice of prayer
and thanksgiving.

We pray. Holy Father, that Thy protecting good-
ness may be around us this day. Be with us in
whatever we may think or do. Wherever we go,
do Thou go; wherever we abide, do Thou abide.
Ever be with us, to guide, to help, and to bless us.
May we remember that this is Thy day, and keep
it holy unto Thee. Banish all worldly cares, all
wandering thoughts. Fix our hearts upon things
above. And when we go up to Thy house of prayer,
may we worship Thee in spirit and truth.

Bless especially, Heavenly Father, Thy servant
whora Thou hast set over us. Grant that the in-
fluences of the Holy Spirit may be abundantly
poured out upon him this day. May he hold up the
Cross in all simpl].city, plainness, and affection. May
Thy word fall as into good gi'ound, and bring forth
fruit — some tliirty some sixty, and some a hundred
fold.

Lord Jesus, o. in the midst of all assemblies of
Thy people to-day. Let Thy word have free course
and be glorified. May sinners be saved ; the uncoa-

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Family Worship.

verted changed ; the broken in heart healed ; the
waverers decided ; the backsliders humbled ; and the
righteous built up in their most holy faith. Bless the
word of grace to them all.

And bless, Lord, all near and dear to us. Bless
oi " parents, friends, and relatives. Bless the poor,
uiiC destitute, the dying, the outcast, the afflicted,
and him that hath no helper.

And now, O Lord God, we again ask for ourselves.
May we love one another as Thou hast given us
commandment. Help us to boar with each other's
failings or infirmities. Increase in us a spirit of
kindness, so that we ma}?- love in deed as in word.
May we ever feel for those who possess not the many
mercies of our own lot. If our brother hath need,
may we never shut up the bowels of compassion
from him. O Lord, Thy Son did die for us guilty
sinners ; may wo ever be ready to deny ourselves for
the sake of those in necessity around us. Fill our
souls with love both to Thee and to our fellow-
creatures. Subdue in us all hatred, all ill-will;
root out of our hearts all bitterness. Enable us to
be kind one to another, to be forgiving if we have
any cause of offence, and ever to remember Him who
graciously forgave us.

These, and all other mercies, we ask. Holy Father,
in the name and through the mediation of our Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Family Worship.
SABBATH EVENING.

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ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, the source
of all light, of all knowledge, and of all
truth, may it please Thee to fix our thoughts
this evening on Thyself, and hear and answer our
prayer, for His sake who alone is worthy and mighty
to save.

We confess before Thee our sinfulness, and un-
worthiness, and ingratitude. We confess that, even
in our holiest services, our hearts are divided and
unstable. Pardon, we humbly l)eseech Thee, the
sins of this day. Lead us to a careful examination
as to how we have served and worshipped Thee.
Enable us to look to Christ, and to live by faith.
Grant that we may yield ourselves humbly and
teachably to the influence and guidance of the Spirit.
Grant that we may appreciate more fully the depth
of wisdom and love which is in the Gospel. May
we be faithful to the convictions of Thy truth, and
to the light Thou hast vouchsafed to us. May we
know and feel Thy word, and live according to its
guidance. Deliver us, God, we beseech Thee, in
the future, from sinful ease and indolence, and from
pride and self-sufficiency. Help us, amid all our
difficulties, and trials, and duties, to advance in the
Divine Life. Strengthen us with food from heaven,
to sustain us in our pilgrimage, and to enable us in
our life and conversation to show that we are in-

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Family Worship,

deed the disciples of Jesus, and have a desire and
are waiting for His coming.

Almighty God, we renew our prayers to Thee this
evening for the Church, beseeching Thee that it may
be increased and strengthened ; and for all men that
they may be brought into the knowledge of the
truth. Give Thy servants in the ministry an en-
lightened sense of their responsibility. Especially
cheer and comfort our pastor. May all his efforts
for our spiritual welfare, and those who worship
with us, be owned and blessed. Prosper abundantly
the labours of all missionaries and Sabbath-school
teachei's at home and abroad. Give them the unc-
tion of the Holy Spirit. May impenitent souls
everywhere be moved ^.nd melted by the love of
Jesus, and be delivered from their sins through the
efficacy of His blood and intercession.

Speak comfortably to the atilicted, and the be-
reaved, and the dying. Bless all our friends Miid re-
latives; and forgive any who may have done us in-
jury. Take us under Thy protection throughout this
night. May no evil befall us ; and if it be Thy holy
will, raise us on new day, and prepare us for all
that Thou art in 'liy providence preparing for us.
Give us the spirit of Christ, that, like Him, we may
be patient, and resigned, and obedient to Thy will.
These things, we ask of Thee, for the sake of Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Family Worship.

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MONDAY MORNING.

LORD, what is man, that Thou art mindful of
him, or the son of man that Thou regardest
liim ? We are less than nothing in Tliy sight, and
in us there dwelleth no good thing. But Thou,
Lord, changest not, and therefore are we not con-
sumed. Our only safety is to glory in Thee, to
trust in Thee, to rejoice in Thee. Let Thy name be
praised, let Thy work be magnitied ; let Thy holy
name be blessed and praised. Thou who art Truth
and Mercy, to Thee be honour, power, and glory,
for ever and ever.

Lord Jesus, enlighten us with the brightness of
Thine inner light, and chase away all darkness from
our hearts and understandings. Restrain our wan-
dering thoughts and desires, and keep us near to
Thyself Send out Thy light and Thy truth, that
they may lead us to Thy holy hill, and to Thy dwell-
ing. Soften our hard hearts with the dews of Thy
grace ; water them that they may bring forth good
fruit. Raise our hearts, which grovel in the dust,
and are oft-times oppressed with a sense of shi, and
enable us to fix our affections on things above.

Preserve us, most holy Lord God, from the cares
of this life, that our feet be not entangled by them ;
and deliver us from spiritual hindrances and tempta-
tions, that we be not wearied and cast down. Let
not flesh and blood prevail over us; let not the
world and the things of the world deceive us ; keep

Family Worship.

us from the power and malice of the devil. Rather
than all this world's allurements, give us the blessed
unction of Thy Holy Spirit; and drive from our
hearts the love of worldly things, by pouring into
them the love of Thy holy name.

Confirm us in Thy ways, Lord, by the grace of
Thy Holy Spirit. Strengthen us with might in the
inner man, so that no trouble or temptations may
draw us away from Thee. Give us, Lord, the
wisdom which cometh from above, and which teaches
us to seek Thee above all things, and which enables
us to find Thee.

Grant us to desire and love Thee supremely ; to
see all things as Thou seest them, and to esteem
them as Thou esteemest them. Let Thy grace en-
able us to resist the seductions of prosperity, and
to bear with patience the storms of adversity.

O Light Eternal, transcending all created suns,
cause Thy bright beams to shine into our hearts.
Purify, warm, enlighten, and quicken our souls with
all their powers, so that they may find their rest,
their joy in Thee.

The days of this present life are short and evil,
full of troubles and sorrows ; when wilt Thou grant
us to be at rest, without trials or temptations ; see-
ing Thy face, and wearing Thy likeness? Until
then, succour us, God, and draw our affections
from earthly things, and fix thero upon Thyself
Amen.

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MONDAY EVENING.

OHOLY SPIRIT, who proceedest from the
Father and the Son, and who with them art
the One Eternal God : Holy Spirit, who by Thy holy
inspiration purifiest the minds of men, comforting
them in sorrow, leading them into all truth ; kind-
ling in them the fire of charity, uniting them to-
gether in the bond of peace ; we beseech Thee to
increase Thy mercy to us ever more and more ; that
all things belonging to the flesh may die in us, and
. that all things belonging to the Spirit may live and
grow, for Jesus Christ's sake.

So lead us through the cloudy wilderness of this
world, by Thy heavenly light, that neither the de-
vices of Satan, nor the allurements of sinful men,
may lead us astray ; but that we may abide in the
truth of Thy Holy Word, and in the end may at-
tain unto everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ our
Lord.

most merciful Father, since we know not what
we should pray for as we ought, grant us the help
of Thy Holy Spirit, that He may teach us to pray,
and pray for us ; making intercession for us, with
groanings which cannot be uttered.

We lift up our eyes unto Thee, Thou that
dwellest in the heavens. Spirit of God, so teach
and quicken us that we may pray unto Thee, not
with the lips only, but with our whole heart and our
whole soul. May we call upon Thee, not in hypoc-

Family Worship,

risy, but worshipping Thee in spirit and in truth.
So teach us that we may ask of Thee such things as
are agreeable to Thy holy will. Give us also such faith
as shall prevail with Thee, being Thine own gift;
but give us also an entire submission to Thy holy
wiU. We would wait patiently upon Thee, O Lord,
until Thou incline Thine ear, and listen to our
prayer.

As the eyes of servants look unto the hand of
their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the
hand of her mistress, so our eyes wait upon Thee,
Lord, until Thou have mercy upon us.

Heavenly Father, we present our supplications
unto Thee, not for our own righteousness, but for
Thy manifold and great mercies, and in the name of
thy Son, Jesus Christ. In His name, through faith,
we come to the throne of Thy grace. Grant our
petitions for His sake, who is at Thy right hand
ever making intercession for us ; and to Him, with
Thyself, and the Holy Ghost, be equal and undivided
praise. Amen.

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Family Worship,

TUESDAY MORNING.

FATHER of mercies and God of all grace, wo
bless and praise Thee for all the kindness
Thou hast shown unto us in the commencement of
another da)\ Thou hast preserved us during the
watches of the night, and by Thine hand our eyes
have been opened to see the morning light. Blessed
be Thy holy name for refreshing sleep, for co/iven-
ient food and raiment, for health and strength, and
for all Thy mercies which Thou givest us so richly
to enjoy. Teach us to take all the comforts of life
from Thy hand, and in their use to be truly thank-
ful unto Thee, Lord ; and when Thousendest sor-
row or trouble of any kind, help us to believe that
Thou doest all things well, and to say, " Thv "^inll be
done."

We beseech Thee, good Lord, to refresh and
strengthen our souls with that portion of Thy sacred
Word which we have read. Make us true pilgrims,
such as feel that this world is not their rest, and
teach us daily to walk as in Thy sight. Keep us,
holy Father, from fleshly lusts, which war against
the soul, In all the business of life let integrity
and uprightness preserve us. Make us peaceable
subjects, good neighbours, faithful servants, loving
relatives, and true followers of Thy dear Son, Jesus
Christ. In thought, and speech, and conduct, may
we be made like unto II im who did no sin, neither
was guile found in His mouth. If our patience shall

Family Worship,

be tried this day by unkindncss or injustice, preserve
us, God of peace, from anger and resentment, so
tliat our fellow-men may take knowledge of us that
we have been with Jesus, and have learnt of Him,

Guide Dur rulers with heavenly wisdom ; prosper
our country, and let peace and plenty enrich our
land. Have mercy ui)on all who are suffering afflic-
tion, and help them who have no earthly helper.
We confess before Thee, O Lord, our manifold sins
and transgressions. Pardon us for the sake of Him
who His own self bore our sins in His own body on
the tree. Bestow upon each one of us now bowing
down at Thy footstool that faitli in Jesus which
purifieth the heart and worketh by love. Grant
unto us that true repentance which leadeth unto life,
and is not to be repented of Redeem us from all
iniquity, receive us graciously, and love us freely.
Let the fruits of holiness abound in our li>^es, so
that we may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour
in all things ; and when we shall depart from this
life, may we sleep in Jesus, and ri^e to dwell forever
amid the joys which are at Thy right hand.

These our humble prayers and praises we present
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with
Thee, Father, and the Holy Spirit, be all praise
and glory, for ever. Amen,

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TUESDAY EVENING.

ALMIGHTY God, Creator of heaven and earth,
who from the beginning didst appoint the
day and the night to succeed each other, and hast
now by Thy providence brought us once again through
the hours of toil to the time of resting ; be with us,
we pray Thee, during the season of darkness, and
cause the light of Thy countenance to sliino upon
our souls.

O God, we are ashamed to reckon with Thee con-
cerning the day that is past; for we have no good
account to give of our stewardship. We have not
been watchful to improve the talents entrusted to
us, nor to make a right use o the opportunities
which we have enjoyed. We have been often sloth-
ful in spirit, and little anxious to honour Thee and
serve Thee as wo ought to have done. Our hearts
have been too much given to the riches or honours
or pleasures of this world, when we ought to have
set our affection on tilings above, on the joys which
are in Thy presence for ever.

We have followed too much the devices and desires
of our own hearts, when they have inclined us not
towards good, but towards evil. Thy will, God,
has not been our will in all things. We have often
mistrusted Thy love ; we have counted Thee a hard
task-master, when we ou^dit to have submitted our-
selves reverently to Thy hand, knowing that Thou

FamiUj Wor8hip,

(loest all tilings well, and hast i)lea.suro in the pros-
perity of Thy servants.

O Lord, Thou soarchest the heart, and seest us
ns we are. Show us, we ])ray Thee, that which is
amiss in us, that by Thy grace we may truly repent,
and strive earnestly to amend our lives. Forgive us
all that is past, for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who died for the sins of the world. Endue us with
the grace of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may live no
longer to ourselves, but to Him who died for us and

rose agam.

Let Thy fatherly hand be over us through this
night, and through the days which ma,y yet be to
come. Raise us from the death of sin to the life of
righteousness. Give us grace to be ever waiting and
watching for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Grant that that day may not overtake us as a thief
in the night ; and enable us with pure hearts and
minds to follow Thee, the only God.

Finally, we pray one for another, and for all those
who are dear to any of us. Unite us as one house-
hold in the bonds of Christian love. Be the Father,
we pray Thee, of this household, and let Thy peace
and Thy blessing rest upon us day and night, till we
all come in Thy mercy and goodness, to that heavenly
home whence we shall go out no more for ever.

Grant this, we humbly beseech Thee, for the sake
of Thy Son Jesus Christ, our only Mediator and
Redeemer. Amen,

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WEDNESDAY MORNING.

OLOKI) (lOD, merciful and grjujious, long
sllt^(3l•i?l^^ and }il)un(lunt in goodness and
truth ! Thou kccpest niorcy for thousands ; Thou
])ardonoHt ini((uity, transgression, and sin; Thou
retainest not 'I'hino anger for ever, because Thou
(hiliglitesi in mercy. How excellent is Thy loving
kindness, God ; therefore do tlie sons of men put
th(Mr trust in Thee ; and therefore do wc desire to
look up to that bountiful hand of Thine, from which
we h.Mve received all our good things.

O Lord our ({od, be Thou pleased to look down
mer(M fully upon us, and be gracious to us as Thou
usest to V)e unto those that love Thy name. look
not upon the sin of our nature, nor the sins of our
hearts and lives, which aic more than we can remem-
ber, and greater than we can express. Behold we
are vile ; we are exceeding guilty ; we acknowledge
that it is of Thy mercies we arc not consumed, and
because Thy compassions fail not. But look upon us
in mercy, through the merits and mediation of Thy
Son, our Saviour; pity us for His sake who did no
sin, and was manifested to take a way our sins. Thou
hast treasured uj) in Him an infinite fulness of all
that we can ever want or wish ; O that we may re-
ceive out of his fulness grace sufhcient for us. Let
us receive from Him those gifts which He is now
ready to bestow ; those gifts which are purchased by
His blood : and the means of our salvation. Accej^t

Family Worahip,

and justify our persons ; reuow and sjiiictify our
souls ; and so transform us into Thy blessed
image, that wo may be meet to bo partakers of the
inberitaneo of Thy saints in light.

Teaeh us, O Lord our God, to uso this world with-
out abusing it, and enjoy the things of it witliout
suffering them to engross our affec'tions. Whatever
wo have of the world, O let it be sanetilied to us by
the word of God, and by prayer. Help us, O gi'acious
Lord, in the whole of our duty to Thee. Let us
never cast a stumbling-block in the way of others,
or cause Thy holy name to be blasphemed through
our misconduct ; but let us pass the time of our so-
journing hero in fear; that, having glorified Thee on
earth, we may be glorified by Tliee in the gi'cat day
of our Lord Jesus Christ.

And now that Thou hast renewed Thy mercies to
us this morning, help us, gracious God, to renew our
desires and endeavours to servo and honour Thee.
restrain us from the evils and follies into which
we are prone to fall ; and quicken us to the offices
and duties which we are averse to |;erfbrm. Grant
that we may think, and speak, and act as becometh
Thy people ; ever remembering that we are bought
with the precious blood of Christ, and ever striving
to live unto Ilim, who died for us, and rose again ;
to whom, with the Father, and the Holy Ghost, be
honour and giury, world without end. Amen,

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Family Worship,
WEDNESDAY EVENING.

OLORD GOD ALMIGHTY, gather of me-'cies
from wliom we derive the temporal comforts
which vre enjoy, and to whom we owe the glorious
and blessed hope of everlasting life ; we desire to
render unto Thee this our evening sacrifice of prayer
and praise, and thanksgiving. We acknowledge
Thy goodness to us during the past day ; and we
beseech Thee to continue to us Thy gracious protec-
tion during the darkness and silence of the approach-
ing night. Thou art ever present with us. Thou
sustainest our lives, though we see Thee not. Thou
art our support in trouble, our guide in difficulty,
our consolation in time of sickness, and our only
rftfuire in the hour of death.

We pray Thee to increase our trust and confidence
in Thee. Deliver us from the love of this changeful
and uncertain world. Strengthen our faith in the
great promises of Tliy Gospel ; and grant that, hav-
ing committed ourselves to Thy mercies in Jesus
Christ, we may find in Him continual rest and
peace.

We beseech Thee, for His sake, to pardon what-
ever sins we have this day committed against Thee.
Although we profess to know Thy word, and to live
in obedience to Thy will, in how many things do we
continue to offend. We are often slothful in the
performance of our duties ; we fail to watch against
our peculiar temptations ; we yield to the evil ex-

Family Worship.

cample of those around us ; we gi'atify our pride ; we
indulge our evil tempers ; we renew our sins, to the
grecat disquiet of our souls. O Lord, forgive, for
Jesus Christ's sake, the offences of this day ; and
pour out upon us Thy Holy Spirit, that we may be-
come more steadfast and zealous in Thy service, and
more diligent in every good work.

We commit to Thy gracious and fatherly care, all
those for whom it is our duty to pray. Have com-
passion on our dearest relations and friends. Supply
their various wants through the riches of Thy
mercy in Jesus Christ. Be merciful to all that are
in sorrow. Look down with pity upon all who
are destitute and oppressed. Bestow Thy special
ffivour on Thine afflicted servants ; and cause their
earthly troubles to issue in their eternal joy.

Have mercy on the young. May there never l)o
wanting in this land a seed to serve Thee; and may
those who shall come after us obtain from Thee nn
increase of light and knowledge, as well as of faith,
and hope, and love ; that the fruits of righteousness
may abound, and the excellency of Thy Gospel may
be more and more manifested in the world.

We present unto Thee these our imperfect sup-
plications, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen,

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THUllSDAY MORNING.

OLORD, Thou hast searched us and known us.
Thou compassest our path and our lyin^
down, and art acquainted with all our ways.
Whithei- shall we go from Thy Spirit, or whither
shall we tiee from Thy presence ? If we take the
wincfs of the morni \ and dwell in the uttermost
parts of the sea, even there shall Thy hand lead us,
and Thy right haad upliold us. Thou hast been
with us duiing the hours of slumber, and hast been
watching over us for our safety and peace. Thou
hast withdrawn the curtains of darkness, and art
again j^ouring liglit upon the earth. Everywhere
we see, O Lord, Thy power and wisdom, Thy ma-
jesty and greatness. Thy l:)ounty and love. The
mystery of Tliine omnipresence we cannot compre-
hend ; but the assurance of Thy word, that Thou art
with us by day and night, Ave desire to receive into
our hearts ; cause us to feel and to act in accordance
with its truth. O Heavenly Father, impress it
deeply on our minds. Raise us above the things
that are seen, and make us to endure as seeing Thee
who art invisible.

To Tliee we can come and speak in every
time of trouble. Tn company or alone, at home oi
abroad, in our devotions and in our business we aic
ever near Thee. We bless Thee for all human sym-
pathy and help, and Av^e desire ever to see in them
the ministers and reflections of Thine own provi

Family Wor.^Jiip.

dencc; but may wc constantly feel that tliere is no
friend, no protector, no patron, like Tliyself, — that
give what Thou wilt, without Thee we are poor ;
and with Thee rich, take wliat Tliou wilt away.
May the thoUL;lit »>f Thy preseiute, Ahnin-lity Lord,
"»o a check on our heart when tein|il((| In ^n. TTflp
us to remember in the hour of spiritual poil that
Thou God seest \is : that the e^'e of the ()iHnis(;i(Mit
discovers every oilence we i-an cniiiiiit, and any j»ni'-
pose we can conceive. O, Holy Fatliei', kecj) »is,
through this awful conviction, fi'om all sin. Wliere-
ever we go, followed by the enemy of oui' souls, sur-
rounded by evil men, or coining within tlic ri-ach
of worldly fascinations, do Tliou keo[), uphold, and
deliver us. Suffer us not to fall. When \\'e ai'c
weakest, be Thou nearest. When we are most hlind,
touch Thou our eyes; when ourtem[)er is most way-
ward, do Thou dispose us to curb and control it.
We are going forth into the world again ; lead us
by the hand, cover us with Thy Aving (yvory moment.
Listen to us on behalf of those who lequest our
intercessions, and fill them with light and peace,
with lov<» and joy. Bless our bclovod laniily, our
children and relations. Make us all one in ( *lirist,
and unite us in those holy sympathies whirli death
cannot dissolve. Have ])ity u[K)n tlie pooi', the af-
ilicted, and the dying. We ask r'l these mercies,
with the })ai"donof all our sins, through Jesus (lirist
our Savioui-. AiVicn.

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THURSDAY EVENING.

OGOD, Thou art good, and Thy mercy en-
dureth for ever. We desire, as a family, to
come t >gether into Thy presence, at tlie close of
another day, to render Thee thanks for all Thy
goodness toward lis, to make confession of our sins
and short-comings, and to implore forgiveness, and a
renewal of grace and strength.

We thank Thee, God, for all the temporal com-
forts and influences wherewith Thou hast visited us,
But especially, we thank Thee for Thy dear Son,
our Saviour, and for all the jo3^s and the hopes that
are treasured up in Him. We thank Thee for
Christ's s])()tless life and self-sacrificing death. We
tliank Thoe for His glorious resurrection and ascen-
sion, We thank Thee for the eye of f\xith by which
w^e can follow Christ into Heaven, whither He is
gone to make continual intercession for us. And we
thank Thee for the gift of the Holy Spirit, whereby
we are strengthened and encouraged to behold this
great mystery.

Grant, wo humbly beseech Thee, tliat each of us
may believe in the mysteiy of godliness, — that God
was manifested in the flesli, — and that we may know
Jesus, not only as tlio Saviour of the world, but as
our Saviour. Deliver us from self, and pride, and
ungodliness. May we daily expori'nco desires after
communion with Thee here, an.d that holie,-,L oyr.
munioii of all, with Thee in hca/en, to ^vlfic-^ vo

Family Worship,

look forwjird in hope. Grant that the life of Christ
may be manifest in our persons. May we experience
within us the quickening of the Spirit, and be en-
aV)led to take up our cross and follow Christ.

Almighty God, may it please Thee to pardon us
wherein we have thought or spoken or acted amiss
this day. Forgive all who may have injured us, and
forgive all the offences we have committed against
Thee, and against our neighbour. Grant that ever-
more in the future we may strive to serve Thee.
May our faith in Christ work by love. May we
])ossess the spirit of patience and forl)earance, and
l)e kindly affectioned one to another, in honour pre-
ferring one another.

With ourselves, we beseech Thee to bless all men.
May all who are united to us be blessed with Thy
grace, and the guiding of Thy providence. Save
our beloved Sovereign. May our legislators be wise,
and our magistrates righteous. Hasten the Lord's
coming. Bless the Church, and all who devote their
time and talents to the instruction of the ignorant,
or the comfort of the distressed. Have mercy upon
the afflicted. May they come to Thee with their
griefs, and receive consolation.
■ Be with us this night, J!*Iay our household have
Thy watchful care. Hear us, and answer us, for
His sake v^ith wdioni Thoi; .a± ever well pleased, our
ifctrength and our Redeemer. A) tun.

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Fmmlij IVorship.

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inilDAY MOKNTNG.

OGOD, blessed be Thy name that Tu'^n hast
revealed to us a Saviour; and that the law,
in its commandments and ordinances, was constituted
a schoolmaster to brino^ men to Christ. How glori-
ous is Thy grace in Jesus the Redeemer ! Not by
works of righteousness which we have done, but
according to Thy mercy in Christ we are saved. Let
the blessing of Abraham rest upon us through Jesus,
and may those precious truths of T]iy Word, which
we have read this morning, often come with power
to our hearts.

We committed ourselves to Thy protection and
blessing on the past evening, and Thou didst give
Thine angels charge over us; under the shadow of
of Thy wings we have rested secunJy. We laid us
down and slept, and awaked, for the Lord sustained
us. Now that a new day dawns upon us, with
gratitude we implore Thee to shine into our hearts,
and give us the light of the knowledge of Th}^ glory
in the face of Jesus Christ.

We know not what is before us, but each dny
brings its duties and temptations and lays us under
fresh obligations. Help us to 'ommit ourselves to
our several works and ways in Thy fear. May we
carry about with us a sense of Thy presence every-
where and in all things, and be diligent in business,
fervent inspirit, serving the Lord. Preserve us from
the numerous temj)tations and enemies tliat may

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Family Worship,

surround us, and help us to keep our hearts with all
diligence, remembering that out of them proceed
the issues of life.

Open Thine hand, and graciously supply us with
all necessary good. Let us, as a family, be pros-
pered in going out and in coming in. May we seek
to do good, as well as to get good, to-day. Bless
our relatives and friends. May those who are un-
converted be subdued to the obedience of faith. Let
Thy comforts delight the souls of all Thy people.

Bless, we pray Thee, all the families that call upon
Thy name ; may there be light in their dwellings.
Have mercy on all mankind. Hasten the time, O
Lord, when Thy glory shall cover the earth, and
there shall be nothing to hurt or destroy in all Thy
holy mountain. Pour out Thy Spirit upon the
world, and let Thy salvation fill the earth. Send
forth more lal)oui-ers to the great work of winning
souls to Christ, and edifying Thy Church. Oh, en-
due them with Thy good Spirit. Make them wise
themselves, tliat with wisdom they may teach
others ! Lord, grant them a largo measure of Thy
presence, and great success in their work.

Accept this our morning sacrifice, O Lord, «indlet
the lifting up of our hands be as incense, through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen,

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FEIDAY EVENING.

OLORD, we desire to seek Thy face, and to
wait upon Thee in the duties of Thy wor.
ship ; and we entreat Thy gracious favour that we
may be enabled to call upon Thee with our whole
hearts. Let our prayer be now set before Thee as
incense, and the lifting up of our hands be as the
evening sacrifice, pleasing to Thee our God, in the
Son of Thy love. It is in His blessed name alone
that we have encouragement to approach Thee, and
boldness to ask of Thee those things whi(jh Thou
knowest to be needful and expedient for us. There
is nothing in us, Lord, but what may well provoke
Thee to reject us, but there is enough in Thy be-
loved Son to procure for us the pardon of our sins,
and peace with Thee. Thou didst make Him to be
sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness
of God in Him ; and that we might be saved by His
merits, when we could not be saved by any desert
of our own works. He was wounded for our trans-
gressions, and bruised for our iniquities ; let the
merit of His righteousness be upon us, and by His
stripes let our souls be healed.

Hjeip us to walk more a«'ceptably before Thee in
all the duties which Thy Word has prescribed for us.
'S^ver suffer .;s to be tempted above what we are
ab*- with Thy grace, to resist ; let no ini(]uitit'H
prevail against ils, nor any preH\nu|\t<\\o\i« bin have
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Family Worship,

the pattern and precepts of our blessed Saviour.
Transform us more into His holy image and likeness,
that we may not dishonour his religion nor cause
the way of truth to be evil spoken of, but may
make our light io shine before men, to the glory of
Thee, our heavenly Father, and to the edification of
those amongst whom we dwell.

We commend to Thy mercy, O God, the neces-
sities and distresses of all our brethren throughout
the world. Bring all to the knowledge of Thy truth,
and to a cheerful obedience to Thy hoi 3^ will ; so
that they may attain to the blessed hope of Thy
glory, and the eternal salvation of their immortal
souls.

And now that the night is upon us, and we are
about to betake ourselves to rest, we commit our-
selves to Thy gracious care and protection. O watch
over us, we pray Thee, for good ; that none of the
evils, which our sins have merited, may befall us.
Protect us both from the works, and from the powers
of darkness ; and preserve us from all the terrors
and dangers of the night. Lift upon us the light of
Thy countenance, that we may lie down with a
sweet sense of Thy favour, and a comfortable assu-
rance that Thou hast accepted us in the Son of Thy
love ; to whom with Tlioe, Father, and the Holy
Spirit, be all (haidi.s and pi/UHoand honour andglury
im*\'\\m(\. Amen.

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►SATURDAY MOirNINO.

ALMIGIITV and uverlasting God, the Fatlior
of our Lord Jesus (Jhrist, of whom the
whole family in heaven and eartli is named, look-
down in mercy upon us, Thy sinful creatures, now
kncelin<r at Thv footstool. We are ashamed to lift
u[) our face to Thee our (iod; for our ini(iuities are
increased over our head, and our tresi)ass is grown
w\) unto the heavens.

But, bles.sed be Thy name, Thy mercy is great
above the heavens. Spare us, good Lord ; spare us
according to Thy tender mercy. For Thy dear Son,
Jesui Christ's sake, |)ardon all our sins, and blot
them from the book of Thy remembrance. We have
nothing to })lead but His merits. We cast ourselves
entirely on Thy promised mercy in the Son of Thy
love, wliose blood cleanseth from all sin.

Lito Thy hands we desire now to commit our-
selves. Thou hast been about our bed to kee}) us
from danger during the night, and we l)ray Thee
still to watch over us for good, and to be about our
path to keep us from all evil during this day. Put
into our minds good desires, O Lord, and by Thy
help enable us to bring the same to good effect.
Hold Thou up our goings in Thy paths, that our
footstc])s slip not. Help us to set Thee before us in
all our thoughts, words, and works, that we may
faithfully serve Thee, and in all things glorify Thy
Holy Name.

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Family Worship.

Kooj) ns mindful tluit this day is tin; |H(!|'Jiiniion
for tli(^ SaUhatli Make it so to each of us, we hum-
bly heseeeli Theo. Enable us so to arrange our
worldly affairs, that we may serve Thee without dis-
traction on Thy holy day, should we be spared to
sec it. Sutfer us not to bo so careful and troul)led
about earthly things as to forget the otkj thing
needful.

Bless all Thy ministering servants. Bo with them
in their preparation for theii* holy work, so that on
tho coming Sabbath they may preach Thy Word
faithfully and powerfully. Endue them with Thy
Holy Spirit, that they may both by their lives and
doctrine set forth Thy true and lively word.

Be morcifu) and gracious, O Lord, to our relatitns
and friends. make thciu thine by adoption and
grace, and never leave them nor forsake them. Look
down on this family with tender mercy, and bless
every member of it. May the voice of prayer and
praise be daily heard in our dwelling. Let no root
of bitterness spring up amongst us. May we love
Thee supremely, and love each other with pui'o hearts
fervently, bearing one another's burdens, and so ful-
fil ing the law of Christ.

Blessed Lord, vouchsafe to hear these our prayers,
and pour upon us the abundance of Thy mercy, })ar-
doning all our sins, and sanctifying us by Thy Holy
Spirit, and all for the sake of Thy dear Son, Jesus
Christ. Amen.

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Corporation

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. MS80

(716) 872-4503

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Family Worship.

SATURDAY EVENING.

O ETERNAL God ! who didst rest on the sev-
enth day from all Thy work, and, beholding
the things which Thou hadst made, didst i)ronounce
them to be very good, we besee(;li Thee to have
mercy u[)on us, Thy sinful creatuii^s, now bi inging
to a close the toils of another week, and preparing
for the special duties and comforts of Thy holy day.
Accept, O Lord, the imperfect and sin-stained ser-
vice which wc have rendered to Thee during the
past week. Thou knowest how many things we
have left undone, through sloth and self-indulgence,
throuofh inojratitude to Thee, and indifference towards
our neighbour. All our idle, trifling, and uncharita-
ble words ; all our wasted, half-employed, and mis-
used hours; all our selfishness, vanity, and ungodli-
U'3ss ; all our omitted duties and all our committed
sins; Thou, O Lord, knowest all, and must bring
all into judgment, even every secret thing.

O Lord, give us thy grace, and suffer ns not to
cloak or veil before Thee our hearts or our lives.
Thou art greater than our hearts, and knowest all
things : grant that we may never think of Thee as
though Thou wert such an one as ourselves, but may
ever remember that Thou settest our misdeeds
before Thee, yea, our secret sins in the light of Thy
countenance.

Forgive, O Lord, all that Thou hasL seen amiss in
us, for the sake of Jesus Christ, who came into the

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Family Worship.

world to save sinners. Hide Thy face IVomonr sins,
and blot out all our iniquities. Give us a lively and
steadfast faith in his full and sufficient sacrifice, and
a spirit of loving devotion to Him who, when we
were sinners, died for us that we might live.

Grant O Lord, that we may rest this night under
Thy protection, and awaken with souls earnest to
seek Thee, and to profit by the ordinances of Tliy
holy day. As our Lord Jesus Christ did on this day
of the week lie buried in the grave, so may we
utterly destroy and abolish all our sinful and earthly
nassions; setting our affections on things above, and
living the life whicli we now live in the flesh by
faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave
himself for us.

Bestow Thy blessing, Lord, upon Thy ministers
and Thy churches everywhere. May the power of
Thy gospel be seen more and more in the lives of
them that believe. So work Thy great work, Al-
mighty God, in this our country and generation, that
the gainsay er may be silenced, the doubter convinced,
the wavering established, and the sinful converted ;
and grant that at the last, according to Thy blessed
word of prophecy, the Lord may be King over all
the earth ; one Lord and His name one.

We ask every blessing in the name of our Lord
Jesus Christ, by whom, and with whom, all honour
and glory be unto Thee, the Father, world without
L'lul. Amen.

Family Worship.

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SABBATH MOENING.

OLORD GOD, enable us, we beseech Thee, to
recall Thy merciful dealings with us, from
the beginning until now, and in Thy presence, on
this hoi}/ day, to lift up our hearts in praise and
thanksgiving. We thank Thee for the blessings of
Thy daily providence, and the continuance of Thy
protecting care. Above all, we thank Thee that
Thou didst not leave us to perish in our sins, but, in
Thy great compassion, hast redeemed us by the
death of Thy dear Son. We thank Thee for the
message of reconciliation, and we pray, God, that
it may never be heard coldly or carelessly by any of
us. O that the rich mercies of Thv redeemino- love
may call forth daily songs of }.'raise, and every re-
newed experience of Thy goodness, quicken in us a
more fervent desire to consecrate ourselves, body,
soul, and spirit, to Thy service. Enable us, in this
spirit of sincere self-sacrifice, to devote ourselves to
Thee, feeling that we have been redeemed, not with
corruptible things, as silver and gold, but with the
precious blood of Jesus Christ ; and that it is our
highest privilege, and should be our greatest joy, to
do all things to Thy will.

Mercifully bless us in all the engagements of the
day. Enable us to sanctify it to Thee. Let it be to

Family Worship.

us a day of spiritual as well as l)0(lily rest. As wc as-
semble '*n the congi'egation, help us in all humbleness
of mind to draw near to Thy throne of grace. So
convince us of sin, that our prayers may rise from
hearts yearning for forgiveness. So reveal unto us
our own dee]) need, that we may go to Thee hungering
and thirsting after righteousness. May Thy love
encourage us, and the warnings of Thy wrath kindle
within us a holy fear. Open our hearts as the heart
of Lydia, that we may receive with meekness the
word which is able to save our souls.

We implore Thy blessing on all who are united to
us by ties of kindred or friendship. [Blessed Sav-
iour, wdio didst suffer the little ones to be brought
to Thee when upon earth, look tenderly and gracious-
ly on the children of our household, and win their
hearts to Thy service.] Let the tokens of Thy pre-
sence be seen in all congregations \vho meet to-day
in Thy name. Clothe the lips of Thy ministers with
words of truth, and kindle their hearts with fervour,
as they proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ.

Assist Sabbath-school teachers ; may they be made
instrumental in winning the hearts of their young
charge to Thee. Cheer the hearts of all missionaries
in their distant fields of labour, and so abundantly
pour out Thy Spirit on all flesh, that there may be a
great increase of true believers, and that Thy name
may V)e exalted.

Answer us and V)less us, and to Thee shall bi^ all
tlie glory. Amen,

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SABBATH EVENING.

OLORD our God, enable us, on this the even-
ing of Thy holy day, to come into Thy pre-
sence, and to worship, praise, and honour Thee, the
Most High, that liveth for ever and ever. Thy do-
minion is an everlasting dominion, and Thy king-
dom is from generation to generation. All the in-
habitants of the earth are as nothing before Thee.
Thou, Lord, madest us, and not we ourselves ; we
are not our own, but Thine. In Thee we live, and
move, and have our being ; in Thine hand our breath
is, and Thine are all our ways. Thou hast provided
for, and fed us, all our life long unto this day. If
Thou withdraw from us Thy supporting arm, we
die and return to the dust from which we were
taken.

Lord, Thou hast in Thine infinite goodness
spared us in life to see and enjoy the comforts of
another Sabbath-day. We humbly implore Thee
to follow with Thy divine blessing the religious ex-
ercises in which we have engaged this day. For-
gi\e us all the sins and imperfections which have
mingled with our duties and services. Pardon the
wandering of our thoughts, the coldness of our
hearts and the forgetfulness of our memories. Let
our imperfect prayers be answered, and our unworthy
praises be accepted. Let not Thy word return to
Thee void, but may it accomplish that whereunto
Thou hast sent it. To Thee, the great judge of all,

Family Worship.

we must accouiiu for our privilcgos. Thou hast in
great mercy bestowed much upon us, and Thou wilt
require much from us in return. Enter not into
judgment with us, but pardon us, and bless us, for
the sake of Christ our Saviour, who loved us, and
gave his life a ransom for us.

As the professing disciples of Christ, enable us,
O Lord, to walk in the world circumspectly. In Thy
great mercy do Thou quench that unhallowed fire
within us that inflames our tongues with bitterness,
and our actions with cruelty. Take away that hy-
pocrisy and blindness which lead us to take offence
at the mote in our brother's eye, whilst we remain
satisfied with the beam which is in our own eye.
Ma}' we never rejoice in iniquity, hut exercise charity
to all our fellow-creatures, and godly sorrow for their
and our own sins and short-comings.

We now desire to commit ourselves, and all for
wiiom we shorjd pray, to thy care and keeping this
night. Lord, if it please Thee, raise us up, upon a
new day, refreshed for our daily labours by the tem-
poral rest and spiritual refreshment which Thou
hast bestowed upon us this day.

And now, Lord, be merciful to us, ond pardon
and bless us, and hear and answer the'^e our imper-
fect requests, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

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MONDAY MORNING.

OTHOU thathearest prayer, and hast promised
that unto Thee all flesh shall come, purge
away our iniquities by the blood of the great sacri-
fice which Christ made for us, and enable us to enjoy
the blessedness of those whom Thou causest to ap-
proach unto Thee.

Thou makest the outgoings of the morning and
evening to rejoice. Thou visitest the earth and
waterest it ; Thou preparest the corn ; Thou crown-
est the year with Thy goodness, and Thy paths drop
fatness. Thou redeemest our life from destruction,
and hast given us eternal life in Christ Jesus. All
glory and praise, now and for ever, be unto the
Father of our mercies, and the God of all our com-
fort.

Receive, Lord, this our tribute of praise and
thanksgiving. We are unworthy of the least of Thy
mercies. We confess with one accord our sinful-
ness, the alienation of our minds from Thee, our
great dulness in spiritual things, and our eagerness
in earthly things ; our unbelief, our impenitence,
and our slothfulness in the divine life, Lord, for-
give us all our sins ; we plead only the propitiation
made for them by the Lord Jesus Christ. O Lord
Jesus, send Thy spirit unto us from the Father to
renew our souls.

Quicken us for Thy name's sake ; draw us, and
we will run after Thee. Help us to set our affec-

Family Worship,

tions on things above, and nv)t on things on the earth.
Give us precious faith, and a true repentance. Stir
us up to all diligence to make our calling and election
sure, and quicken us to continual acts of mutual
help and love one towards another. let us not
only know, but do Thy will ; not only hear the com-
mand to pray always and not to faint, but ever give
oureelves unto prayer, and know what it is to walk
with Thee in happy fellowship.

By Thy Spirit bring to our recollection the truths
which we yesterday heard ; and enable us to bring
into this day's conduct the holy lessons of the sav-
ing grace of cur Lord Jesus Christ. Give us faith
that we may profit by what we have heard. We
ask for the same mercies for all His disciples, and
His professing people throughout the world.

Let the healing beams of the Sun of Righteous-
ness rise on all the nations, Jews and Gentiles, and
shine till all the ends of the earth remember and
turn unto the Lord, and all the kindreds of the na-
tions worship before Thee. Bless especially our
own land, our gracious Queen, and our own church ;
and make us blessings to others, through Jesus
Chiist our Redeemer. Amen.

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Faimhj Worship.

AlONDAV EVENING.

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ALMlGIiTV juid most merciful God, the Father
of our Lord Jesus Christ, receive us andre-
i;;ird our prayers tlirough Him wlio died for our sins.
O may Thy Holy S[)irit convince us of sin. May wo
know the extent of that Jaw which Thou hast given
and which is holy, just, and good. Discover to us
more of Thine own spotless holiness and purity.
Let the things of Christ be discerned by us, and so
may we see our great sinfulness. O may we learn
to loathe and abhor ourselves, and to be ashamed
and confounded before Thee, and mourn for our sins,
with that broken and contrite heart which Thou
wilt not despise. But especially may the knowledge
of our crucified Redeemer, and the believing view
of Jesus pierced for our sins, fill us with holy sorrow
and compunction ; may that sin which cau?ed his
sufferings be very bitter and loathsome to us ; and
may we turn from and forsake every evil way, and
walk daily in the paths of righteousness and peace.
Lord, for this we need far mightier strength than
our own. Fulfil to us that gracious promise, "I will
strengthen them in the Lord, and they shall walk
up and down in His name."

We have to confess before Thee how we have
trifled with our precious time, neglected to improve
our talenis, and sought present ease and gratifica-
tion. Lord, forgive us all our sins, negligences, and

'^ inities : trive us errace to redeem "

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Fa m l/ji Woi sfi ip.

diliijjently occupied in Thy service with every talent
Thou hast given us, and patiently to go through toil
and endure trials and sacrifices for Thee. May wo
not sow to the flesh, but day hy day sow to tho
Spirit, that we may of the Spirit rea[) life everlasting.
And, Lord our God, seeing we live in a world
full of snares and tcni[)tations, — a world going on
in that course wliich is contrary to Thee and Thy
Word, — we pray Thee to grant us Thy grace, that
none of us may be conformed to it, but that we may
all be transformed by the renewing of our minds, to
prove Thy good, and acceptable, and perfect will.

Thanks be unto Thee, Thou source of every good,
for all this day's mercies and blessings ; for Thy pro-
tecting care over us, Thy providing love for us, and
the benefits which have been again renewed to us.
For every family mercy, for every social enjoyment,
for every deliverance from evil, and every portion
of good, — we are debtors to Thy sovereign mercy.
Give us grateful hearts for our many blessings ; give
us loving and compassionate hearts to our fellow-
creatures.

Prosper Thy Church in every land, and make
ready a people prepared for the Lord. Bless our coun-
try, and make it a blessing to all lands. Deliver us
from our many national sins : give us true repen-
tance, and a zeal for Thy truth and kingdom, ac-
cording to the great advantages Thou hast given us.
Hear us, for onr Red center's sake. 4w,en,

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Famili/ Worship.

TUESDAY MORNING.

OLORD, Thy mercies are new every inorninpj;
lielp us to draw nigh unto Tlioe, an<l tanvh
us how to pray. Doubtless Thou art our Father,
though we have rebelled against Thee. Thou hast
made us, and kept us alive, and even unto this day
hast not forsaken us. We are Thine by creation;
Thine also by redcni})tion ; made in Thine own
image, and bought back from our faU by the pre-
cious blood of Christ. Thou hast sent to us the call
of Thy Gospel, and hast received us into the fold of
Thy Son's church.

O Lord, we are not straitened in Thee ; Thou art
all grace and compassion ; Thou still waitest to be
gracious, and art always more ready to hear than we
are to pray. But, Father, we are sinners ; sinners
by the inheritance of a fallen nature ; sinners in will
and deed through the estrangement of our hearts
from Thee, and the ungodliness, and selfishness, and
wickedness of our lives. O God, from whom no
secrets are hid, we blush and are ashamed to come
into Thy presence ; we can but lie in the dust before
Thee, and cry, unclean, unclean.

Have mercy upon us most merciful Father ; and
for Thy beloved Son our Lord Jesus Christ's sake,
forgive us all that is past. We plead His merits,
His sacrifice and propitiation ; we plead Thy tender
mercy, shown in giving Him for us, ; suffer and
die ; we plead Thy free piomise of pardon and for-

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I^ivonoss to all who floo for rofiigc to lay liold upon
the hope set before tliom in Thy beloved Son.

Take us, O Lord, this day under Thy ])rotection.
Hold Thou us up, and wo shall be safe. Keep us,
both in body and soul, from all things tliat may hurt
us. Teach, guide, enable, and bless us, that we may
live in Thee, with Thee, and for Thee, all the day
long. Leave us not alone, for without Thee we are
lost, we are helpless, we are dead. Be Thou ever at
our right hand, that we may not bo moved.

Give us, Almighty Father, tliat which Thou seest
to be good for us this day. Order all things for us.
May we see Thy hand in all that befalls us, and re-
ceive with loving submission, as from Thee, those
things which contradict our will, or try our patience.
Bless us, O God, and make us a blessing. Use us as
Thy servants and Thy witnesses, that others may
take knowledge, through us, of Thy power and of
Thy love !

Lead us safely, blessed Lord, this day, through
another stage of our life's journey, towards the rest
and the home which Thou hast provided for them
that love and fear Thee, in that world where they
shall see Thee as Thou art, and rejoice for ever in
the light of Thy countenance. We ask all for the
sake of our Lord Jesus Christ ; to whom , with Thee
and the Holy Ghost, be all honour and glory, world
without end. Amen,

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TUESDAY EVENING.

OGOD, our Father, whose mercifu) providence
has kept us through this day, enable us, now
that its work is done, and we are again brought to-
gether to read Thy Word, and worship Thee, to ren-
der hearty thanks for all Thy great goodness towards
us. In Thee we live, and move, and have our being ;
from Thee has come every blessing which has been
ours this day. Whatever success has attended us,
whatever power we havt had to resist sin, or to live
as followers of Jesus, has been Thy gift, and for these
do we render thanks; but most of all for Thy re-
^ vealed Word, for the gift of Thy Son, and for the
knowledge of Thy free forgiveness and ready help
to all who seek Thee through Him.

It is in the strength of that knowledge, and of
this truth, that we .are bold to come unto Thee ; for
when we remember our shortcomings and errors, the
wanderings of our hearts this day, our shrinking
from honest service before Thee, and our actual trans-
gressions of Thy law, we are convinced of our un-
worthiness to claim any good at Thy hands. But
we come to Thee as to our Father, knowing that Thou,
for Christ's sake, art willing to hear and to bless ;
v/e ask Thee, for His sake, to pardon all our sins, all
wherein we have this day offended, all in which we
have done evil, or neglected to do good. Help us to
search our hearts, and to try ourselves by the stand-
ard of Thy Word. Save us from carelessness, frou)

Family Worship,

the folly wliicli shuns self-examination, or strives to
make little of sin ; and give us courage and faithful-
ness to bring ourselves to the light, that, learning
our own weakness, we may the more earnestly seek
Thy grace and promised help.

We arc only Thy stewards, O God. Time, talent,
strength, opportunity to do good, and power of ex-
ample are given by Thee, that we may in them
glorify Thee. Thou who searchest the heart, for-
give us all the errors of the past, and quicken us by
Thy Spirit, that we may be found faithful in the
time to come. Help us to care more, and to do more,
for the spread of Thy Gospel. May the Spirit of
our Mr.ster stir our hearts with earnest desire for the
salvation of sinners. Prosper all efforts to make
known the name and love of Jesus. Wherever the
good seed is sown, in church or school, abroad or at
home, may Thy blessing give the increase. Have
mercy on our country ; may Thy Word have free
course and be glorified among us.

Gracious Father, we ask Thy blessing upon the
sick and afflicted, the destitute and the tried. Visit
them especially with Thy salvation, and uphold
them by Thy good spirit. Comfort, strengthen, and
in Thine own good time, relieve them.

And now, O God, we commit ourselves to Thee.
Watch over us, and keep us during the night, give
us refreshing sleep, and raise us up to live to Thy
Gloiy, for Jpsus Christ's sake. Amen.

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Family Worship.

WEDNESDAY MORNING.

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, to whom all
hearts are open, and from whom no secrets are
hid, may Thy Holy Spirit enable us to draw near to
Thee under a just and heartfelt sense of Thy charac-
ter, and of our own.

Thou art holy, but we are vile. Thou art good,
but we are ungrateful. Thou requirest and deservest
that we should love Thee with all our hearts, and
acknowledge and serve Thee in all our ways. We
have grievously departed from Thee, and have re-
belled against Thee by transgressions of Thy righ-
teous law.

But for ever be Thy name adored, there is mercy
with Thee, and plenteous redemption. In Thy dear
Son, our incarnate Emmanuel, Thou hast found a
ransom, and hast laid on him the iniquities of us all.
Merciful God, we desire now to approach Thee as a
reconciled Father, in His most blessed Name. Help
us to draw near to Thee, with a true heart, in that
humble, penitent, contrite spirit, which Thou wilt
not despise. O I-ord, plant and keep alive in us that
simple, steadfast faith in the atoning blood and all-
availing intercession of Jesus which brings down from
Thee mercy, grace and peace to the soul.

Look upon all the members of this family, O God,
may we be Thy adopted children in Christ. And
may Thy Spirit give us a growing victory over the

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Family Worship.

evil workings of our corrupt and treacherous hearts,
and keep us unspotted from the world.

Raised up by Thy providence from the refreshing
sleep of another night, may we go forth to the
duties of this day in humble dependance on Thy
grace and guidance. Be merciful, we beseech Thee,
to all with whom we are connected. Look with pity
on such as are suffering from want, sickness or trou-
ble ; and give them reason gratefully to say, — " It is
good for us that we have been afflicted."

Be gracious to Thy universal Church. Check the
ungodliness, vice, and infidelity, which threaten to
bring down Thy judgments upon us. Deliver us
from all false doctrine, heresy, and schisu. Multiply
the faithful ministers of Thy Gospel, and bless their
labours. Pour out Thy spirit abundantly upon us,
that we may be a holy nation, a peculiar people, zea-
lous of good works, and that Thy glory may dwell
in our land.

And now, heavenly Father, we would offer up our
humble thanksgivings for all Thy great mercies and
goodness to us in body and soul ; especially for Thine
inestimable love in the gift of Thy dear Son to re-
deem, and of Thy Holy Spirit to purify our souls.
May our souls bless Thee, and all that is within us
praise Thy Holy Name in time and in eternity,
through Jesus Christ, our only hope and Savioui™ ; to
whom, with Thee, and the Holy Ghost, be ascribed
all honour, and glory, now and for ever, ATfien,

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WEDNESDAY EVENING.

OGOD the Creator and preserver of all man-
kind, great is Thy faithfulness. Thou hast
spared us, Thy sinful creatures, to see the close of
another day. We thank Thee, O our God, that
Thou hast not dealt with us after our sins, or reward-
ed us according to our iniquities. We thank Thee
that Thou hast made such a blessed provision for our
pardon in Jesus Christ. We thank Thee that Thou
hast established with Him " a covenant, ordered in all
things and sure." O, be ever mindful of that cove-
nant, most gracious Lord ; and enable us to lay
firmer hold of the blessed hope set before its in Thy
Gospel.

May Thy Holy Spirit convince us of our own ex-
ceeding sinfulness, and give us a deeper acquaintance
with the plague of our own hearts. May none of
us be ignorant of the sin which doth most easily beset
us ; and do Thou grant us grace, we humbly beseech
Thee, to cast it from us. Against Thee have we
greatly sinned, and done much evil in Thy sight.
Pardon us, we beseech Thee, good Lord : for Jesus
Christ's sake, forgive us all our numberless transgres-
sions.

But whilst our consciences thus accuse us of un-
faithfulness to Thee our God, what love has been
manifested on Thy part ; what abundant blessings
hast Thou vouchsafed to us, temporal and spiritual,
known and unknown ! Thou hast continued to us

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the enjoyment of ourreli<^ious privileges. Thou hast
supplied us with food and raiment, and multiplied
our comforts on every side. O do Thou accept our
praises and thanksgivings ; and draw us, most
gi-acious Father, we entreat Thee, with cords of love
to more entire devotedness to Thee. May thy mer-
cies lead us to present ourselves, our souls and bodies
unto Thee, a living sacrifice which is our reasonable
service.

Let the close of this day remind us that our time
is short, and that the night cometh in which none
can work. O our God, prepare us to meet Thee ;
make us ready for Thy coming ; may we be among
the number of those whom Thou when Thou comest
shall find watching. To this end, stir us up, we en-
treat Thee, to greater watchfulness, to more diligent
self-examination ; and make us more holy and more
heavenly-minded.

Lord, we commit ourselves, and all near and
dear to us, to Thy care this night. Keep us, we en-
treat Thee, from everything which may harm our
bodies or our souls. And if it be Thy will to pre-
serve us through this night and to permit us to
awake again in this world, give us grace to run with
increased patience the race that is set before us, ever
"looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our
faith."

Hear us, God, and answer us abundantly, for
His name's sake. Amen,

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101

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THURSDAY MOliNING.

O MERCIFUL GOD, whose loving-kindness
and faithfulness are new every morning, we
once more thank Thee with heart and lips that Thou
hast made us arise from our beds in health and peace,
and hast preserved our bodies from harm, and our
souls from death. How great is Thy goodness, O
Lord, so that men trust under the shadow of Thy
wings, and find there a secure refuge. With the
morning doth our heart awal:en unto Thee, O God,
for Thy Commandments are our light upon earth.
Once more we behold the daylight, give us grace to
walk in the light, aad avoid the works of darkness.
May we count that day as lost wherein we have
bowed to the service of the evil world, and ruled our
lives by its fashions and follies, of which we shall
have to give an account at Thy judgment seat. Let
us rather consecrate ourselves to Thy service ; in all
our wishes, thoughts, and undertakings, may we seek
what is pleasing in Thy sight and may the whole da}'
thus be hallowed to Thee. Let us ever so live and
speak and act as though this day might be our last.
Teach us to follow after justice and holiness in
Thy fear ; for Thou art our glory, the only true God.
Incline thine ear unto us, O Lord, who are here
met to call upon Thy name together ; save us by
Thy mighty hand ; bless Thy people and sanctify
Thy inheritance; give peace to the world, to Thy
Church, and to Thy people.

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And now, O Lord, after the dark hours wherein
we lay as children in Thy fatherly arms, Thou hast
once more bestowed, as it were, a new life upon us ;
whither then shall we turn but unto Thee ? We
knock at Thy door of grace, we a[)i)roach the foun-
tain of blessing, whence mercy after mercy, help
after help, is ever flowing forth to the children of
men. Give us counsel when we are in ]:)erplexity;
direct and control all our plans by Thy will ; kindle
in us such a flame of love, that we may to-day show
our Christian faith in our works, and continue in
charity with Thee, and our neighbours, till we reach
the evening in the peace of a good conscience. What
Thou blessest is blessed; and when Thou openest
Thy hand, all living things are filled with plenteous-
ness. Hear then the voice of our prayer when we
call upon Thee, and keep not silence, O our God.
Let the cry of the poor, the sick, and the sorrowful
find acceptance with Thee. And hearken graciously
to the prayers of all Thy people, of all whom we
love, and to these our imperfect petitions for Jesus
Christ's sake. And Thine be the glory, now and
for evermore. Armn,

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103

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THURSDAY EVENING.

OGOD, who art the only good, the priceless
Treasure of all faithful hearts, in Thee alone
can our wearied spirits tind full satisfaction and rest,
and in Thy love is the highest joy. Lord, if we
have Thee we have enough, for Thy favour is better
than life itself; and we are happy if Thou wilt but
give peace to our consciences, and make us know
how gracious and merciful Thou art. Preserve in
our hearts tliat peace which passcth all understand-
ing, and make us bettor and holier in time to come.
Strengthen those of us who are in any sorrow or
perplexity, by the inward comfort of Thy Holy
Spirit, and bid us know that our light affliction,
which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far
more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. For
there will come a time when Thou wilt brinii^ us to
the place of perfect rest ; where we shall behold Thy
face in righteousness, and be satisfied from Thy
eternal fulness.

But now the gloomy night is come upon the earth.
Lord, Thou Guardian of Israel, who dost neither
slumber nor sleep, care Thou for us and for all men.
Let Thine eye watch over us. Thy hand protect us,
and Thy holy angels defend us. Wherever Christian
hearts are raising their evening prayers to Thee, do
Thou hearken to them, O God ; and spare also, in
Thy great mercy, those who have offended Thee this
day. Have patience with the children of darkness

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who may misuse this night for their own evil pur-
poses, and let them not die in their sins. Grant that
those who have fallen out to-day may not let the
sun go down upon their wrath ; and have pity upon
all who retire to rest without prayer or thought of
Thee. Refresh all who have been wearied with the
toil of the day, and strengthen those to whom even
night bringeth not repose. Guide aright the traveller
on his way; rrotect and provide for those who
know not where to lay their heads. Watch by the
sick; guard the little ones; shorten the hours of
darkness by Thy presence, to those who cannot
sleep, to all sufferers in mind or body who are look-
ing forward to them with dread. Finally, be Thou
the guardian of our whole community from peril
and loss, and whether this night be like all the past
ones to us, or to any one of us be the last, may we
alike be found safe in Thy gracious keeping. So
bring us all in Thine own time from this world of
darkness to Thine eternal light and peace and rest ;
for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

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Family Worship.

105

FRIDAY MORNING.

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MOST bountiful and gracious God, wo bless
Thee for the protection of the night, for the
sleep that has refreshed us, and for the watchful
keeping that has preserved us. We committed our-
selves to Thee wlien we laid us down to rest, and we
have slept in safety, for Thou, Lord, hast sustained
us. The darkness has brought no terrors. Thou
hast neither slumbered nor slept ; Thine eye has not
been turnod away from us ; Thine hand has not
been withdrawn.

We would consecrate to Thee the day that is now
opening upon us. We know not what may befall us
before it closes ; what arduous duties we may have
to discharge ; what strong temptations we may have
to resist; what great sorrows we may have to endure.
Our assurance is that Thou knowest all our strength
and weakness, and that Thou wilt be our helper
in all. We cast ourselves upon Thy merciful help-
ing. Be Thou our arm every morning. We come
boldly to Thy throne of grace that we may obtain
mercy to pardon our sina, and grace to help us this
day in whatever may be its needs. Help us to lis-
ten for Thy voice amid the din of earthly things.
Help us in our busiest hours to see Thy hand in
everythinfj that may befall us, or be done around us.
Thou visitest us every morning, and triest us every
mcment. May our hearts and tempers bear the test
of little things ; let no eagerness of business beguile

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us into forgotfuliiess of Thee ; lot no household cares
divert our calm religious faith ; let no fret or worry,
or provocation irritate or make us impatient. May
our souls be kept in perfect peace stayed u[)on Thee.
If it please Thee, send us prosperity, peace in our
families, success in our business, esteem amon;j^ our
fellow-men; or, if Thou shalt see \l best to appoint
us sorrow and loss and reproach, help us to maintain
true and holy and trustful hearts, faithful in love to
Thee, and patient in all feelings and thoughts towards
our fellow-men. In every ex[)ericuce and possibility
of the day, may we be in Thy fear, and present our
bodies to Thee a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable,
which is our reasonable service. And we will ren-
der to Thee, the Father and to Thine only Son, and
to the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, everl'isting praise.
Amen,

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Family Worship.

FRIDAY EVENING.

107

OTHOU who dost permit us to call Theo our
Father who art in heaven, wo gather round
Thy feet, even as after the various occupations of
the day children gather in their homo; and before
we retire to our rest for the niglit, we would for a
while commune with Thee, think of Thee, and wor-
ship Thee ; for to think of Thy thoughts and ways
gives us understanding concerning our own. How
many things we purposed to do that we have not
done ; how imperfect our goodness has been ; how
soiled, and even sinful, our best feelings and doings.
In the morning we prayed to Thee for the manifold
grace which the day might need ; how little we have
tried to realize our prayers, how largely we have
even forgotten them. When the time came for put-
ting forth energy, to perform duty, to resist tempta-
tion, to endure trial, we thought neither of the holy
instructions of Thy word, nor of the ready help of
Thy grace ; we permitted feelings that were foolish
to influence our conduct, and feelings that were not
pure to intercept the flowing forth to Thee of our
hearts. Thus we have fallen short of the wisdom
and strength which we might have won. forgive
us, and let the precious blood of Christ be sprinkled
upon our consciences, that we may be cleansed from
all sin.

Help us now to attain to a humble, holy, trustful
mind, as for a little time we wait upon Thee. Sub-

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ilue within us all turbulence of spirit tliat the day
may have wrought ; and if our holy strength hjis been
wasted by our work in the world, or by the fretful
cares of life, let it now be renewed. We would re-
member Thy claims upon our service and our love.
We would meditate upon Thy precious teachings
concerning both thib life and the life to come. Oh,
it is a precious thing to turn froin the bustle and
care of every day, to find in Thee holy rest and
strength for our life. Let wise thoughts and sancti-
fying influences possess our souls, and let their power
be with us in all days to come.

If, with any, sorrow and darkness are setting down
upon their way, making their hearts fear, and their
homes sad, be Thou their light and comfort ; do Thou
to-night draw the curtains of their bed, and give
them sleep. Have pity upon the sick ; if it please
Thee, give them bodily ease and healing. Above all
give them patient, trustful, loving hearts, that they
may by exercises of faith draw, from the treasures
of Thy love, confidence and strength — grace to help
them in their time of need.

All mercies that we need for ourselves, and for all
whom we love, we pray for in the name of our liiith-
ful and merciful high Priest. Ar)icn,

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Famihj Worship.

SATCKDAY MORNING.

109

O GRACIOUS GOD, and our most merciful
Father, we give Thee fresh thanks aiid praise
for Thine unwearied goodness to the children of
men. We bless Thee for Thy protection of us dur-
ing the past night; for it is Thou, Lord, only which
makest us to dwell in safety.

Be pleased still to keep us with Thine almighty
power in all our ways. As Thou hast raised our
bodies from sleep, arouse our spirits also, good Lord,
to serve Thee cheerfully. Assist us from hour to
hour to remember Thee, that we may look up te
Thee for help and guidance; make us watchfu?
against those temptations which have formerly pre^
vailed over us. Grant that we may shun the com-
panionship of the wicked, and go with zeal to our
appointed work, with a. sincere purpose of living
soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present
world.

Quicken us with a charitable and friendly spirit
to look beyond our ov/n concerns to the service and
benefit of our neighbours : put far away from us
all envy and jealousy of their welfare. May we
learn to bless Thee for the prosperity of our brethren,
and in whatever measure Thou art pleased v re-
ward our earthly diligence, grant us a willing heart
both to provide for our own families, and to succour
those whom Thy providence has placed around us.

We desire of Thee, O Lord, a humble mind, to

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judge benevolently, and to spcnk with charity, of
all men ; to be courteous, gentle, and long-suirering
in all our behavioui ; a.nd so to conduct ourselves
in every place, that men may see our good works,
and glorify our Father which is in heavon.

We entreat Thy mercy and blessing for all man-
kind, that the fruits of righteousness may abound
amongst them more and more. Keep with Thy
providence, and sanctify with Thy heavenly grace,
our relations and friends ; may they find favour in
Thy sight, and live in peace and good reputation
with their fellow-men.

Bless our neighbours, fiiends, and companions,
and especially those with whom we have been
brought up from childhood. remember not the
sins and offences of our youth, but help us all
whilst life and faculties are spared to us, to redeem
the time, laying up for ourselves a good foundation
unto life everlasting ; so that, with all them that hope
in Christ, we may finally enter into Thy rest, through
the merits of our righteous Redeemer; to whom
with Thee, and the Holy Ghost, be honour and glory,
world without end. Amen.

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111

SATURDAY EVENING.

OGOD, the author of our being, and the un-
ceasing guardian of our lives, look down on
us with Thine accustomed mercy, and be pleased to
accept our evening sacrifice of prayer and thanks-
giving.

We acknowledge Thy goodness in appointing to
us a time for all things, that in due season we may
diligently make provision both for our souls and
bodies. We bless Thee, Lord, for the unchange-
able love with which Thou ever watchest over us.
Thy mercy hath measured out our trials and sweet-
ened oViT toils. may we ever look with a contented
mind on the portion which Thou hast assigned us ;
remembering always that Thou knowest better than
ourselves, what is for our good. Teach us to see
Thy fatherly hand in all that befalleth us, and to
leave to Thy disposal, as dutiful children, the issue
of all our undertakings. Thou only hast preserved
us during the week that is past. Whatever com-
forts we have enjoyed, whatever dangers we have
escaped, we ascribe to Thy almighty care. To Thee
we owe our competence, and peace, and safety ; our
trials and sorrows are no less mercifully measured
out by Thee. And now, on the eve of a Christian
Sabbath, we withdraw our thoughts from things
which perish, to bestow them, as Thou hast taught
us, on the welfare of our immortal souls.

We confess, O Lord, to our shame and sorrow.

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Family Worship.

that in many things we have thought too little of
Thy holy commandments ; we have sinned grievously.
We know that we have not made due return for
Thy great benefits, nor improved, as we ought to
have done, Thy warnings and grace.

But Thy beloved Son is all worthy to obtain the
pardon of our sins ; through his intercession grant
us, good Lord, trulj'" to repent of them ; draw us in
faith to Him, that henceforth we may serve Thee
better, and advance in those holy dispositions which
may fit us for Thy rewards in heaven. ,

heavenly Father, we implore Thy mercy in be-
half of our fellow-creatures, to whom the hour of
death may be close at hand. Accept their repen-
tance, and hold them up in faith through the last
trial of our mortal nature ; and may we, who remain
faithfulj redeem the time, that, at the hour of
Thy summons, we too may die the death of the
righteous, and our last end be like his.

Guard us this night, we beseech Thee, from the
powers of darkness. Suffer no e\il to befall us, nor
any plague to come nigh our dwelling ; and may
we rise with bodies refreshed and thankful spirits,
to the duties of the Lord's Day. Grant this,
Lord, and whatever else we have asked according to
Thy will, through the mediation of Jesus Christ
our Saviour ; to whom, with Thee, and the Holy
Ghost, be love, honour, and obedience, now and for
ever. Amen.

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113

SABBATH MORNIl^G.

O ALMIGHTY Lord God, our heavenly Father,
we desire to praise Thy holy Name for per-
mitting us to meet together on this the morning of
Thy holy day. Grant us Thy presence and blessing
while attempting to draw near unto Thee in this our
family circle, and go forth with us to Thy house of
prayer. Thou hast set apart this 'ay to teacr. us the
knowledge of Thy Name and of our own condition.
In obedience to Thy commands we come before Thee
confessing our sins, acknowledging our own mani-
fold disobedience and Thy amazing forbearance, and
seeking for Thy pardoning mercy and Thy renew-
ing grace.

How often have wo neglected Thy solemn warn-
ings and gracious invitations, and resisted the
strivings of Thy Holy Spirit ; yet Thou hast not
cut us off, and shut us up under condemnation, nor
deprived us of the means of grace and the offer of
mercy. Blessed be Thy Holy Name that we are
still favoured with Thy Word, Thy ministers, and
Thy ordinances. Remove the veil from our under-
standings and the hardness from our hearts. Im-
press our minds with the importance of eternal
things. Remove from us all worldly cares and dis-
tractions; fill us with deep abasement and godly
sorrow ; and enable us to approach Thee with ear-

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nest desires and lively anticipations of pardon
through the all-prevailing intercession of our Lord
Jesus Christ.

Accompany Thy oracles, and the preaching of Thy
servants with the power cf the Holy Ghost ; make
us more wise and diligent to follow the holy exam-
ples which are set before us. May we be transformed
in the renewing of our minds, and be daily more the
followers of our Lord and Master, and increasingly
conformed to His divine image.

May our prayers and praises rise up with accept-
ance before Thy mercy-seat. O grant that our hearts
may indeed be engaged in Thy service, — may we feel
deep humiliation, godly sorrow, and true repentance
for all our iniquities. Give unto us holy desires
and heavenly affections ; and suffer not wandering
thoughts to interrupt and impede our services.

Thou, O Lord, hast appointed pastors and teachers
whose lips should retain knowledge, and from whose
mouths Thy people are to be instructed. Give unto
them all, we beseech Thee, the spirit of wisdom and
revelation in the knowledge of Christ ; and enable
them to exhibit Jesus Christ as the sinner'^ hope.
•May Thy people be comforted and established; may
the beauty of holiness and the evil of sin be effect-
ually set forth ; and may multitudes have cause to
bless Thee for Thy manifold and abundant mercies.

Hear, Lord, these our humble prayers, and do
more for us than we ask or think, for Jesus Christ's
sake. Amen,

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115

SABBATH EVENING.

O ALMIGHTY Lord God, great, wonderful, and
holy. Thou art exalted far above all bless-
ing and praise, and yet humblest Thyself to behold
the things that are in heaven and in the earth.
Look down in mercy upon us who here present our-
selves before Thee on this the evening of Thine own
day. Hear our prayers, accept our services, and
vouchsafe unto us an answer of peace.

We have been favoured this day with Thy word
and Thine ordinances, with the means of grace and
opportunities of drawing near unto Thee. Yet, alas,
we must confess before Thee that we have not ren-
dered again according to the benefit. Our services
have been defective and defiled. Our prayers and
praises have been cold and wandering, and too often
disturbed by vain and unprofitable thoughts and
speculations. O reject us not, unworthy as we are,
but look in mercy upon us through the sacrifice of
our Lord Jesus Christ.

Regard, we beseech Thee, His all-sufficient merits
and His prevailing intercession ; and for His sake
communicate unto us those gifts and graces, those
spiritual benefits and blessings, of which we severally
stand in need.

Bless the word we have this day heard to the
souls of all our fellow- worshippers. do Thou,
who alone canst give the increase, water the seed sown
with the abundant influence of Thy Holy Spirit ;

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Family Wor.s/np.

may it take deep root, and bring forth fruit. May
true religion revive and flourish among us, and may
all who name the name of Christ depart from all
iniquity.

Have mercy, Lord, upon all who have profaned
this Thine holy day, by employing it in business or
pleasure, or in vain and idle conversation. Show
them their guilt and danger before it is too late.
Constrain them to hallow Thy Sabbaths ; bring
them to Thy house of prayer ; and may they attend
to the things which belong to their everlasting peace
before they are for ever hid from their eyes.

Be with the children of this family, and grant
that they may be Thy children. Give us grace,
Lord, to train them up in Thy most holy faith and
fear, and may they be indeed a seed to serve Thee
when we are laid in the grave.

Look in mercy upon all who are sick and afflicted,
and sanctify their several trials; and while Thou
still continuest to favour us with health and strength,
may we diligently improve our time and talents, and
faithfully prepare for the season of trial and sick-
ness, for the hour of death, and the day of judgment.

Continue Thy great loving kindness to us ; keep
us closely united unto Thee ; animate us for every good
work and service, and finally make us more than
conquerors through our Lord Jesus Christ ; to whom
with the Father and the Holy Ghost, one God, be all
honour and glory, now and for ever Amen.

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Family Worship,
MONDAY MOENING.

117

OLORD our God, wo desire with all humility
and reverence to adore Thee, as a Being in-
finitely blessed and glorious. Thou hast all perfec-
tion in Thyself, and art the fountain of all being,
power, life, motion, and perfection. Thou art good
to all, and Thy tender mercies are over all Thy
works ; Thou art continually doing us good, though
wo are evil and unthankful.

We reckon it an unspeakable privilege that we
have liberty of access to Thee through Jesus Christ,
and leave to call Thee our Father in Him. look
upon us now, and be merciful to us as Thou usest to
do unto those that love Thy name.

We humbly thank Thee for all the mercies ol the
past ; that we are brought in safety to the light
and comfort of another day. We own Thy goodness
to us, and ourselves we acknowledge less than the
least of all the mercy, and of all the truth Thou hast
showed unto us.

We confess we have sinned against Thee ; we are
guilty before Thee, we have sinned and have come
short of the glory of God. We have corrupt and
sinful natures, and are bent to backslide from Thee ;
backward to good, and prone to evil continually.
We pray Thee, forgive all our sins for Christ's sake,
and be at peace with us in Him who died to make
peace, and ever lives, making intercession.

Lord, we commit ourselves to Thy care and keep-

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Family Worship.

ing this (lay. Watch over us for good ; compass us
about with Thy favour as with a shield ; preserve
us from all evil, yea, the Lord preserve and keep
our souls ; preserve our going out and coming in.
give us grace to do the work of this day in its day,
according as the duty of the day requires ; and to
do even common actions after a godly sort, acknow-
ledging Thee in all our ways, and having our eyes
ever up to Thee.

Lord, keep us from sin, give us rule over our own
spirits, and grant that we may not this day break
out into passion upon any provocation, or speak un-
advisedly with our lips. Give us grace to live to-
gether in peace and holy love, that the Lord may
command the blessing upon us, even life evermore.
Make us conscientious in all our dealings, and al-
ways watchful against sin, as becomes those who see
Thine eye ever upon them. Arm us against every
temptation, uphold us in our integrity, keep us in
the way of our dut}^ all the day long.

Prepare us for all the events of this day, for we
know not what a day may bring forth. Lord, fit us
for death, and judgment, and eternity ; and give us
grace to live every day as those that do not know
but that it may be their last day.

We humbly beseech Thee, for Jesus Christ's sake,
to pardon our sins, accept our services, and grant an
answer of peace to our prayers, even for His sake
who died for us, and rose again. Amen.

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Family Worship.

119

lilt

MONDAY EVENING.

MOST Holy, and blessed, and glorious Lord
God, whose we are, and whom we are bound
to serve ; Thou givcst to all life, and breath and
all things. It is through Thy good hand upon us
that we are brought in safety to the close of another
day, and that after the various employments of the
day, we come together at night to mention the lov-
ing-kindness of the Lord, and the praises of our God,
who is good, and whose mercy endureth for ever.

We confess we have sinned against Thee ; this
day we have sinned and done foolishly. O God,
Thou knowest our foolishness, and our sins are not
hid from Thee. We misspend our time, we neglect
our duty, we follow after lying vanities, and forsake
our own mercies. We pray Thee, give us repentance
for our sins of daily infirmity, and make us duly
sensible of the evil of them, and may the blood of
Christ Thy Son, cleanse us from them.

We commit ourselves to Thee this night, and de-
sire to dwell in the secret place of the Most High,
and to abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
Let the Lord be our habitation, and let our souls be
at home in Him. Refresh our souls, we pray Thee
with quiet and comfortable rest, not to be disturbed
with any distrustful or disquieting cares and fears ;
but especially let our souls be refreshed with Thy
love, and the light of Thy countenance, and Thy be-
nignity, which is better than life.

120

F<i wilji ] Vorshij).

When wo awake, grant th it wo may still bo witli
Theo, and may romeniber Theo upon our bods, and
meditate upon Theo in the night watclies ; and that
wo may improve the silence and solitude of our re-
tirements for communion with God, and our own
hearts ; that when wo are alone we may not be
alone, but God may be with us, and we with Him.
Restore us to another day in safety, and [)reparo
us for the duties and events of it ; and by all the
supports and comforts of this life lot our bodies bo
fitted to serve our souls in Thy service, and enable
us to glorify Thee with both, remembering that wo
are not our own, for we are bought with a price.

Lord, lot our family bo blessed in Him in whom
all the families of the earth are blessed ; blessed wdth
all spiritual blessings in heavenly things in Christ
Jesus, and with temporal blessings as far as Thou
seest good i()Y us. Give us health and prosperity,
but especially let our souls prosper and be in health,
and let all that belong to us belong to Christ ; that
we who live in one house together on earth, may be
together for ever with the Lord. Be gracious to all
that are dear to us. Let the risin<x cjencration be such
as Thou wilt own, and do Thee more and better service
in their day than our own has done.

Do for us, wo pray Thee, abundantly above what
we ask or think for the sake of our blessed Saviour
Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Family Worship,

TUESDAY MORNING.

121

FATHER of mercies, and God of all comfort,
sutier uh to approach the throne of Thy
lieavenly grace, in the name of our Lord JesuH Christ ;
and while we engage in the duty of prayer and sup-
])lication, let Thy Holy Spirit help our infirmities
making intercession for us according to Thy will.
We are unworthy to come into Thy holy presence ;
but Thou coinmandest us to make known our re-
quests unto Thee, and hast assured us in Thy holy
Word that Thine ears are open to our prayers
Draw nigh unto us in mercy, while we draw
nigh to Thee in duty. Cause Thy face to shine
upon Thy servants, that we may approach Thee
with confidence, and with reverence and godly fear.
We bless T)iy holy name, Lord our God, for
having preserved us through the night that is past
from all evil and danger ; and for having raised us
in health and strength to see the light of another
day. Grant, O Lord, that we may be so prepai-ed
by Th^' grace for the duties and difficulties of this
day, that we may set Thee before u^i in all our works
and ways, and honour Thee in all we think, or say,
or do. May we in our lawful calling labour dili-
gently, that we may provide things honest in the
sight of all men. May we be just in all our deal"
ings, and merciful ; still walking humbly with
Thee. If any man injure us may we be meek and
forgiving; if we fall into affliction may we be re-

122

Family Worship.

signed to Thy will; and amidst triids and tcmptii-
tions may wo stand fast in tlio good way of the
Lord. Wiien wo go out, and whon wo come in, let
Thy presence bo with us, and Thy blessing rest upon
us. Keep our minds in peace with Thee and with
all mankind.

We ask not for any of the members of our family,
here or elsewhere, the wealth or the honours of this
vain world ; but we pray Thee to give them ana ui
food and raiment, with health and strength, and
more especially largely bestow on them all the bless-
ings of Thy great salvation. May all who dwell
under this roof fear and serve Thee ; may our house
be a house of prayer, and every heart a temple of
the Holy Ghost.

Bless the Queen, and all the royal family, with
tl.e blessings of Thy providence and grace. May
the Queen's counsellors be wise and prudent, that
all the affairs of the empire may be guided in wis-
dom and equity, to the good of all classes of the
people, and the glory of Thy holy name May the
judges and magistrates administer justice with im-
partiality as in the sight of God. May Thy minis-
ters be clothed with righteousness, and Thy people
be joyful in Thy salvation.

Hear us, Lord, in these our prayers and sup-
plications, and mercifully supply all our need
through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour Amen,

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123

m i

TUESDAY EVENING.

ALMIGHTY and everlastingly glorious Lord
God, Thou art the God of all the families
of the earth ; and, through Jesus Christ cur Lord,
most graciously permittest us to come unto Thee
and seek Thy blessing. Help us to come before Thee
with reverence, and in spirit and in truth to worship
at Thy footstool. Let our prayer come before Thee
as incense, and the lifting up of our hands as the
evening sacrifice ; and let the words of our mouth,
and the meditation of our heaiL, be acceptable in
Thy sight, Lord our strength and our Redeemer.

We would enter into Thy presence with the deep-
est self-abasement, and abhor ourselves, and repent
in dust and ashes before Thee. We have grievously
sinned against the Lord our God, we and our fathers,
from our youth up even to this day. We confess
that in us there dwelleth no good thing, and that by
nature we are all as an unclean thing, and all our
righteousnesses are as filthy rags. But we have an
Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the right-
eous ; and He is the propitiation for our sins. By
Him we now approach Thy throne. We renounce
every other ground of hope, and place our whole
trust in Him who bore our sins in His own body on
the tree, and suffered the just for the unjust to bring
us to God. may we know that God, for Christ's
sake, has forgiven all our sins. Justify us freely by
Thy grace, through the redemption that is in Christ

124

Family Worship,

Jesus, whom Thou hast set forth to be a propitiation
through faith in His blood. Make us the children of
God by faith in Jesus Christ ; and shed abroad the love
of God in our hearts by the Holy Spirit given unto
us. Assured of Thy favour O Lord, we shall retire
to rest in peace ; knowing that whether we wake or
sleep, whether we live or die, we shall be with God.
If Thou callest us to pass through trials and con-
flicts may we prove Thy grace sufficient for us ; and
when there are fightings without, and fears within,
sfill may we find that Thou art God which com-
fortest them that are cast down. Teach us to be
careful for nothing ; but in everything, by prayer
and supplication, with thanksgiving, make known
our requests unto Thee ; that the peace of God,
which passeth all understanding, may keep our hearts
and minds through Christ Jesus.

We now commit ourselves into Thy hands. "We
bless Thee, Lord, for all the mercies of the day. De-
fend us from all dangers and perils of the night ;
refresh us with sleep ; and if it please Thee, raise
us up in the morning with new determination to de-
vote our lives to Thy praise. Save us, we beseech
Thee, even to everlasting life, through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Armn,

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Family Worship.

WEDNESDAY MOENING.

125

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, we desire to
approach Thy throne together as a family,
and to raise our hearts to bless Thee for the unde-
served goodness and loving kindness of the past
night and this morning. Gather in our wandering
thoughts, and engage them about the service of
prayer with which we now profess to be occupied.

Thou art daily speaking to us by the voices of
creation, by the events of Providence, and by Thy
revealed word. May we take Th;, ^vord into our
hands as a precious gift from Thee ; and with the
consolations that are in Christ, may we have the
illumination of the Spirit to bring us to the under-
standing of Thy whole will. May it please Thee
to pardon our sins for neglecting Thy Holy Word
in times past. Remember not our iniquities against
us. Forgive us for our disregard of Thy precepts,
for turning away from the overtures of ^orcy, and
for refusing to be comforted by Thy proi ; " .

By Thy tender mercies, God, which ar .ver all
Thy works, — by Thy love and compassion, which
moved Thee to send Thy Son to die for sinners, —
grant, that we may be drawn to obey thy law.
Draw us to Thyself in heart and life. Suffer no
cloud to pass betwixt us and the light of Thy coun-
tenance. May we evermore obey Thy precepts, and
be cheered by Thy promises. Vouchsafe to us, we
humbly beseech Thee, the unfaltering faith, and the

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Family Worship,

enlivening hope, and the ceaseless joy of them, who
have been redeemed from their sins by the blood of
Christ. May it please Thee to give us Thy Holy
Spirit in larger measure, and enable us, amid the
troubles and difficulties of every-day life, to find
safety in Thee.

Almighty God, we commit ourselves to Thee this
day. Be with us, we pray Thee, for good. Help us
r'ghtly to use the talent that Thou hast given to us.
Save us from perverting to wrong uses our natural
powers, or the opportunities of Thy providence.
Grant that individually we may fultil our duties to
Thee, and to each other as a family, and to our fellow-
men.

And with ourselves, we pray for all mankind.
May tlie crafts and subtleties of the wicked come to
nought, and may the work of the adorable Redeemer
be advanced. May it please Thee to guide and
direct all who are vested with authority throughout
the world, especially our beloved Sovereign.

Bless our relatives and friends, benefactors and
enemies. Extend Thy mercy to all ; and give Thy
grace to them who are Thine own, that they may
grow in all pious and virtuous living, to Thy praise.
Be gracious to the afflicted. Be with the dying in
the dark valley. Strengthen their trembling feet,
and lead them into everlasting rest. And unto Thee,
the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we will ascribe the
praise and the glory, now and for evermore. Amen.

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WEDNESDAY EVENING.

127

BLESSED GOD, we give Thee humble and
united thanks this evening, that it hath
pleased Thee to invite us to draw near unto the
throne of the heavenly grace, and to confess our sins,
and to make known our requests.

We adore Thee as the unchangeable God, wliose
goodness is displayed in heaven and in earth. We
adore Thee especially as the God of infinite love,
who hast sent Thy well-beloved Son, that through
his death, we, Thy sinful and erring creatures, might
have eternal life. Glory be to Thee, God, that
tidings of great joy have reached us, and that Thou
art pleased to magnify Thyself in our salvation, and
not in our destruction. We should ever praise and
thank Thee for Thy great and unspeakable gift to us
in Christ Jesus ; but we confess that our iniquities,
like the wind, have carried us away ; that what we
would not that we do ; that we are prone to follow
after that which is evil ; that our afflictions and
worldly callings, through which we should serve
Thee, too often being unsanctified, divert us from
Thy service.

Have mercy upon us, God, have mercy upon us.
Give us Thy grace and strength. Keep us from be-
setting sin. Deliver us from the power of sin. Fix
our affections on things above, where Christ sitteth
at Thy right hand. Let Thy Holy Spirit be shed
abroad in our hearts ; and grant that, in prosperity

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Family Worship.

and adversity, alike, we may be submissive to Thy
will. Pardon, we humbly beseech Thee, the sins of
which we have this day been guilty. Forgive us
wherein we have forsaken Thee, or forgotten our
Christian calling and profession. Forgive us wherein
we have despised Thy counsels, or let slip any oppor-
tunities we have had of glorifying Thee. May the
influences of the Spirit evermore operate within us,
to the sanctification of our hearts and lives.

May it please Thee to bless us as a family. Grant
that our hearts may agree in one ; and when we
have finished our earthly course, may we meet in
heaven, around Thy throne for ever. Be with us
throughout this night. Grant that we may see a
new day in peace and safety.

Bless our native land. Prosper her institutions,
that are founded on Thy word. Bless our Sovereign
and all in authority. Enlarge the kingdom of grace.
May grace, mercy, and peace descend abundantly
upon all who name the name of the Lord Jesus in
sincerity, and who are seeking to advance His king-
dom. Heal the sick. Deliver the oppressed. Let
all men rejoice in Thee. And all that we ask is for
Christ's sake, to whom, with Thee the Father, and
the Holy Spirit, be all the praise and the glory.
Ametf,,

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Family Wrrship,
THUKSDAY MORNING.

129

WE bow our knees before the Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ, who is the true Father
of all who are called children in heaven and earth ;
and we pray Him to give us power according to the
riches of His glory, that we may be strengthened
with might in the inner man ; that Christ may dwell
in our hearts by faith ; and that we being rooted and
grounded in love, may know with all saints the height
and depth and breadth of Thy knowledge, which is
better than all wisdom, and be filled from the full-
ness of God.

We acknowledge with thankful hearts this morn-
ing all Thy goodness, and will not hide Thy faithful-
ness, which Thou ha^st showed us from our cradle
until this hour. Thou hast led us along with the
cords of love, and hast suffered us to sleep duidng
the night in safety, and to rest in peace. And now
shine Thou forth upon us like the [;;lorious dawning
from the east ; descend upon us as the rain which
watereth the earth. O God, who causest the light to
shine out of darkness, pour such clear light into our
minds that we may behold Thee in the face of Jesus
Christ. Make us meet for the inheritance of the
saints in light ; help us to walk in Thy name ; be
to-day our salvation and the strength of our life
that we may fear no evil ; for Thou art the source of
all life, and in Thy light shall wo see light. Let us
abide in the thought of Thy presence, that we may

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Family Worship.

receive continual supplies of new strength, and
mount up "with wings as an eagle, and never faint
nor grow weary in Thy service.

Give strength, merciful Father, unto the
sick; help the poor; comfort the afflicted; refresh
the sorrowful ; defend them that are ready to des-
pair. Feed Thou the hungry ; provide for the foi-
saken, and bless us also in our goings-out and com-
ings-in. Lord Jesus, help us through Thee to gain
one victory after another over temptation, whether
from the world, the evil one, or our own passions.
Holy Spirit, be our light in darkness, our Teacher
in ignorance, our Guide in all our ways, and renew
our hearts according to Thy will. Make us Thy
holy temple, O God ; and let us, and all whom we
love, love Thee in sincerity and serve Thee with un-
divided hearts. Bless us in soul and body until we
all reach Thy day of endless rest.

And now unto Him who is able to do exceeding
abundantly for us, beyond all we can ask or think,
be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

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131

III

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THURSDAY EVENING.

FATHER, with thankful and humble hearts we
appear before Thee at the close of this day.
We would thank Thee for all the ben»jfits that we
have received from Thy goodness. Under Thy care
have we safely and calmly lived, preserved from many
evils, kept in health and grace. Thou hast given us
food and drink ; Thou hast satisfied and refreshed
us; with Thy help have we accomplished the duties
of our family and our business, and it is to Thy bless-
ing we owe what success we have found. Every for-
tunate circumstance we have met with ; every op-
portunity for doing good ; every impulse in the right
way ; the good we have done, and the evil we have
been saved from doing ; each victory we have gained
over ourselves ; the kindly comfort or wise counsel
we have given or received ; every sigh for the suffer-
ings of others, and resolve to alleviate them ; every
thought of Thy presence, Father ; every silent
but loving glance on the example of our Pattern,
Thy Son our Lord — all are alike Thy gifts to us.

But, alas ! how little, how imperfect is the good
we have done; how much that might have been
done have we left unattempted ! We are the idle
servants, who know their Lord's will, and yet do it
but half or not at all. We confess that we come as
sinners before Thee ; yet it is to the mercy promised
to us in Thy Son that we flee for refuge ; Thy prom-
ise that Thou wiliest not the death of a sinner is

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our comfort. Teach us to know more truly how
many and great are our faults, how deeply-seated
the evil in our souls. Fain would we appear pure
and unspotted before Thy holy eye ; but who shall
cleanse us from our impurities but Thyself? Give
us strength and wisdom to walk faithfully and joy-
fully in the way of willing obedience to Thy laws,
and cheerful trust in Thy love. The best thanks-
giving we can offer to Thee is to live according to
Thy holy will ; grant us every day to offer it more
perfectly, and to grow in the knowledge of Thy will
and the love thereof. Thou who art ever our Father
and Saviour, be so especially in the darkness of the
night. Send us gentle sleep to refresh our bodies,
that we may awaken to-morrow with renewed
strength for Thy service. Avert all perils ; let no
plague or terror come near our dwelling, nor break
our rest. May each of us close his eyes to-night
with the thought — Thou art my Father, I am Thy
child.

Bless our friends and benefactors, our enemies and
slanderers, if such there be. Protect the place where
we dwell, and let all regions of the earth behold Thy
mercy. Watch over this household, and all whom
we love far and near. Have pity on all sighing,
weeping hearts who cannot find sleep. Grant us to
sleep in peace and awake with cheerfulness, and
may our first morning thought be to call Thee our
Father and to thank and praise Thee for Thy love.
Amen,

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FKIDAY MORNING.

133

O ALMIGHTY God, our Heavenly Father, we
confess and acknowledge that we are miser-
able and wretched sinners, and have in manifold
ways most grievously transgressed Thy most holy
commandments, through wicked thoughts, ungodly
lusts, sinful words and deeds, and in our whole life.
In sin were we bom and conceived, and there is no
goodness in us ; insomuch that if Thou shouldest
enter into strict judgment with us, we must needs
perish for ever ; so little help, comfort, or succour is
there either in ourselves, or in any other creature.
Only this is our comfort, heavenly Father, that
Thou didst not spare Thy well-beloved Son, but
didst give him up unto the most bitter and vile death
of the cross for us, that he might so pay the ransom
for our sins, satisfy Thy justice, reconcile us unto
Thee, and secure for us Thy favour, and everlasting
life.

Wherefore, through the merit of His most bitter
passion and death, and through the shedding of His
innocent blood we beseech Thee, O heavenly Father,
that Thou wilt vouchsafe to be gracious and merci-
ful unto us, to pardon all our sins, to enlighten our
hearts with Thy Holy Spirit, to renew, confirm, and
strengthen us with a right and perfect faith, and to
influence us in love toward Thee and our neighbour,
that we may henceforth with a willing and glad
heart walk as it becometh us, in Thy holy com-

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mandments, and so praiso and glorify Thee everlaHt-
ingly. And also that we may with a free conscience
and quiet heart, in all manner of tenii)t{itions,
atftictions, or necessities, and even in the very pangs
of death, cry boldly unto Thee our God and Father.
But, Lord God, our heavenly Father, it is not
in our power to comfort ourselves in affliction and
temptation, for faith is Thy gift ; forasmuch as Thou
wilt be prayed unto, and called upon, we come to
Thee to beseech Thee both for that and for all our
other necessities, even as Thy dear beloved Son, our
Saviour Christ Jesus, hath himself taught us to pray :
Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy
name, Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, in earth,
as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from
evil; for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and
the glory, for ever. Amen.

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135

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lUIDAY EVENING.

HONOUR and praise bo given to Thee, O Lord
God Alniiglity, our Fatlier in heaven, for
all Thy mercies and loving-kindness shewn unto us,
in that it hath pleased Thy gracious goodness, freely
and of Thine own accord, to elect and choose us to
salvation before the beginning of the world. Even
like thanks be given continually to Thee for creating
us after thine own image ; for redeeming us with
the precious blood of Thy dear Son, when we were
utterly lost ; for sanctifyitig us with Thy Holy
Spirit in the revelation and knowledge of Thy holy
word ; for helping and succouring us from all dan-
gers of body and soul ; for comfo^ 'ng us in all our
tribulations and distresses ; for ^ -ing us so long,
and giving us so large a time of repentance.

These benefits, most merciful Father, as we ac-
knowledge to have received them of Thy goodness
alone, even so we beseech Thee, for Thy dear Son
Jesus Christ's sake, to grant us always Thy Holy
Spirit, whereby we may continually grow in thank-
fulness towards Thee, be led into all truth, and com-
forted in all our adversities. O Lord, strengthen
our faith : kindle it more in ferventness and love
towards Thee, and to our neighbours for Thy sake.
Suffer us not, our Father, to receive Thy word
any more in vain, but grant us always the assistance
of Thy grace and Holy Spirit, that in heart, word

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and deed, we may sanctify and worship Thy holy
name.

Cause Thy kingdom to increase and amplify.
Whatsoever Thou sendest, may we be heartily content
with Thy good pleasure and will. Let us not lack
the thing, Father, without which we cannot serve
Thee ; but bless Thou all the work of our hands so
that we may have sufficient, and not be chargeable,
but rather helpful to others. Be merciful, O Lord,
to our offences ; and seeing our debt is great, which
Thou hast forgiven us in Jesus Christ, make us to
love Thee, and our neighbours, so much the more.
Be Thou our Father, our Captain and Defender in
all temptations ; hold Thou us by Thy merciful
hand, that we may be delivered from all dangers,
and end our lives in sanctifying and praising Thy
Holy Name, through Jesus Christ, our Lord and
only Saviour. Amen,

Family Worship.

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SATURDAY MORNING.

WE thank Thee, Lord, for sparing us during
the past night, and for the light and com-
fort of this morning. May we this day be kept in
Thy fear and favour ; may we be guided by Thy
counsel and sustained by Thy grace : may we be
strengthened for every duty, and fortified against
every temptation. Suffer us not to walk after the
course of this world ; but may we walk in the foot-
steps, and copy the example of Christ. Like Him
may we be meek and lowly in spirit, submissive to
Thy will, and in all things may we glorify Thy
name. We lament that in past times we have come
short of Thy glory, and in many things have of-
fended. We have sinned against Thee in thought-
word, and action. But, O Lord, we beseech Theo
to be merciful to us for the sake of Thy dear Son,
who died for our sins, and rose again ^or our justifi-
cation. May our sins be washed away in his blood ;
may our persons be accepted on the ground of His
merits ; and grant that being justified by faith, we
may obtain that peace which passeth all understand-
ing, and the joy which is unspeakttble and full of glory.
It has pleased Thee, Lord, that in Christ should all
fullness dwell ; out of His fullness may we receive all
needed blessings. May Thy Holy Spirit be given
to us to enlighten what is dark in us, to sanctify
what is sinful, and to strengthen what is weak ; and
may He work in us to will, and to do, what is pleas-

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ing in Thy sight. Grant us also, we beseech Thee,
those temporal blessings Thousoestto be best suited
to U3 ; and may we find that all things are work-
ing together for our goo<l. O Lord, bless our friends ;
may they be objects of Thy special providential care,
subjects of Thy Spirit's regenerating grace, and heirs
of Thine eternal kingdom. Be very gracious to the
sick and afflicted, and grant to them a sanctified use
of all their trials. Bo a father to the f itherless and
a husband to the widow. Supply the wants of the
poor and needy, and enrich them with the treasures
of Thy grace. Bless all Thy people throughout the
world. May Th}'- ministering servants be this day
guided in their preparation for the services of the
approaching Sabbath. Bless all teachers in schools
and seminaries of learning, and may the young of
this land be well instructed not merely in things per-
taining to this life, but also and above all, in the
knowledge of Christ, and in the things which be-
long to their everlasting peace. Let Thy kingdom
come, Lord. Sustain Thy missionary servants
who have gone to distant lands to proclaim the gos-
pel to the perishing heathen. May the long prom-
ised day soon come when all nations shall rejoice
in Thy salvation. Let the people praise Thee,
Lord; let all the people praise Thee. Hear us,
we beseech Thee, for Thy dear Son's sake ; and to
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be all the praise, now,
and evermore. Amien.

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139

.1 iii

SATUEDAY EVENING.

WE desire Lord at the close of another
week, to approach Thy throne with thank-
ful hearts. We give Thee thanks for Thy care of
us during the week. Thy goodness has been new
to us every morning and repeated every evening.
Day by day Thou hast given us food to eat and rai-
ment to wear. Thou hast continued to us health
of body and soundness of mind. Amidst a thou-
sand dangers by us unseen, Thou hast upheld and
cared for us. Above all, we thank Thee that the
way of access remains open to us through Christ
Jesus Thy Son ; that Thou art still willing to give
us Thy Holy Spirit ; and that Thou art still holding
out to us the prospect of eternal life and glory.
May the recollection of all Thy mercies bind us to
Thy service. Forgive, we beseech Thee, our past
ingratitude and disobedience. Deal not with us as
we deserve ; but remember us according to the multi-
tude of Thj'- tender mercies. According to the riches
of Thy grace, do Thou bless us with all spiritual
blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Grant
us the assurance of Thy love ; and may Thy Holy
Spirit bear witness with our spirits that we are
Thine adopted children. If any members of this
household are living without God and without Christ,
and therefore without any good hope, Lord grant
that even now they may be brought nigh by the
blood of Christ. May they, without any deia}^ flee

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for refuge to the hope set before them in the gospel ;
and in Christ may they obtain pardon, and peace,
and eternal life. Lord bless all our friends, reward
our benefactors, and forgive our enemies, and may
peace and good- will everywhere prevail. Remember
in mercy those who are troubled in body, or mind,
or outward estate ; heal the sick, comfort the sorrow-
ful, and relieve the distressed. Prepare the dying
fjr their great change, and spare useful lives. Teach
us to live mindful of death ; and whensoever Thou
art pleased to call us hence, may an abundant en-
trance be ministered to us into Thy heavenly king-
dom. Watch over us this night ; give Thine angels
charge concerning us ; may the God of angels be
our protector and our friend. Prepare us for the
duties and enjoyments of another Sabbath; may
we be in the spirit on the Lord's day, and obtain
some blessed foretaste of the eternal Sabbath which
awaits Thy people in heaven. May Thy ministering
servants receive a double portion of Thy Spirit, and
be enabled to declare Thy truth with all faithful-
ness, affection, and simplicity. Hasten also the time
when the gospel shall be everywhere proclaimed,
and when all kindreds, and people, shall bend to
the gracious sceptre of Messiah. Hear us, Lord,
we beseech Thee, for the sake of Christ Jesus our
great High-Priest, and ever living friend ; to whom
with Thee the Father «ind the Holy Spirit be aU
glory ascribed now and ever. Amen.

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Family Worship.

Sidfj Mwh.

141

OS'

SABBATH MOENING.

O HEAVENLY Father, awaken Thou our de-
votion, that on this and every Sabbath, we
may keep the sacred day of rest according to Thy
wil]. Grant us grace to rest from all sinful deeds
and thoughts, to surrender ourselves wholly unto
Thee, and to keep our souls still before Tbee like a
still lake ; that so the beams of thy grace may be
mirrored therein, and may kindle in our hearts the
glow of faith and love and prayer. May we, through
such stillness and hope, find strength and gladness
in Thee, O God, now and evermore.

Our Father in heaven and earth, we thank Thee
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, tha\} Thou
hast guarded us from all the i)erils of the past night,
and brought us through Thy undeserved goodness,
safe and well to this blessed day. Thou whose
love never faileth, let the memory of our past sins
vanish from before Thy countenance like the dark-
ness of the night that is fled. Awaken our hearts
from the slumber of idleness and folly, and let us
arise with Christ from the death of sin to a new life
of righteousness. O Father of light and giver of all
good and perfect gifts, give us to-day Thy gracious
Word, and may it be the highest joy and delight of
our hearts. May it be a word of truth spoken ac-

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cording to Thy will, <and may we receiving it be born
again of the Spirit, and become first fruits of Thy
creatures. Pour upon us, therefore, richly the grace
of Thy Holy Spirit, that both at home and in Thy
house we may be quick to listen to, and careful to
heed Thy precious Word ; but slow to all vain and
empty talk, which cannot profit us, but only grieves
Thy Spirit in our hearts. O Almighty Father, give
us seeing eyes, hearing ears, and understanding
hearts, that we may be aware of our own wants, and
gladly gather whatever Thy hand to-day may let
fall for us. Plant Thy Word within us, and let it
make this day a happy one. And to all who shall
to-day preach Thy holy Name, whether in this place
or elsewhere throughout all Christendom, give Thy
Spirit, that they may truly proclaim Thy Word and
not their own.

May this be a day of rest in our souls. Let
our hearts be Thy temple, wherein Thy Spirit unites
us in true faith to Christ, and leads us in true love
unto thankful obedience to Thee; so shall we be en-
abled to ofier Thee perpetually an acceptable wor-
ship. Lead us on from faith to fiiith, from love to
love, from strength to strength, until we reach the
end of our pilgrimage, and are made meet for that
world where we shall keep the eternal Sabbath of
unbroken rest, with all the people of God and his
holy angels, in the secure mansions of peace. So
shall we ever thank and love and praise Thee for
all Thy love and Thy great goodness, through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.

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143

SABBATH EVENING.

ABIDE with us, Lord, for the day is far spent
and the night is at hand. O living God how
unsearchable are Thy works, how unspeakable is the
goodness which Thou shewest to the children of
men ! We must speak of Thy mercy and truth, for
in this day that is gone Thou hast been bountiful to
us in body and soul. Thou hast fed our soul with
the bread of life, and given us to drink of living
waters ; Thy Word is sweeter than honey and the
honey-comb. May it henceforth be a light unto our
path, so that we may guide our conduct by it, and
fall not into sin and error on our way. Thou hast
cared for us also in earthly things, so that we have
reached this evening in health and peace. We are
not worthy of all Thy blessings. But now, our
guardian, let Thy protection be round about us ; let
Thy light shine continually within us, that we may
have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of
darkness. Let the word we have heard be as good
seed in our hearts, bringing forth in us fruits that all
men may see — the fear and love of God, and deadness
to the world and sin. When we return to our daily
toil be our shield against the arrows of temptation,
our shelter in the heat of the day. The Lord is the
strength of our life; of whom then shall we be afraid ?
Avert all perils of the night from our house ; let
all the sad, the sick, the dying, enjoy Thy gracious
presence to-night. Forgive us if we have not wor-

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shipped Thee to-day with as much ardour as we
ought, and take not Thy grace away from us. Let
all things be new with us in this new week ; give us
new love and desire for Thee ; new zeal to serve and
obey Thee ; let us avoid and flee from the sins we
have committed in the week that is past, that all
may know that our Sabbath has not been spent in
vain. Help us to remember that we have never-
dying souls, that we may be more concerned for
them than for our perishable bodies. We are about
to seek our place of repose ; let it remind us not only
of the slumber of the grave but of that r^st which
Thou hast prepared for the people of God. For that
rest do Thou make us meet ; strengthen and quicken
us, and bring us thither in Thine own time, for Thy
mercy's sake. Amen.

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Family Worship.

MONDAY MORNING.

145

ALMIGHTY LORD, whose eyes are in every
place, beholding the evil and the good, who
art the God of all the families of Israel, and to whom
we desire ever to live, we praise Thee and give Thee
glory as the only living and true God ; — God over
all things, in heaven and in earth, now and for ever.

We thank Thee for the mercies of another morn-
ing — for Thy protection and care through the night ;
for the healbii and strength which we enjoy, for our
family comforts, for our religious privileges, and va-
rious means of grace. Lord, what thanks shall we
render for Thy Holy Word ; for the gift of Thy only
begotten Son, for the light and consolation of Thy
Holy Spirit, and for the blessed hope of living with
our Saviour in those glorious mansions which he is
now prej)aring. We are indeed utterly unworthy
of these '.''hy mercies. We have departed from Thee
our m^st gracious father and friend. By unbelief,
by alienation of heart, by self-will and pride, by
selfishness and impenitence, we have offended Thee.
O may Thy Spirit so bring home to our hearts Thy
love, and our ingratitude and perverseness, as to re-
move that in us which is hard and rebellious, and
make us humble and contrite in Thy sight. May we
each see our own sinfulness, and with broken hearts
and self-abhorrence confess that we are vile.

Reveal to us, O God, the full preciousness of
Christ — the length and breadth, the depth and

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height of his love, which passeth knowledge. May
Thy good spirit continually take of the things of
Christ, and show them unto us, that we may know
Him more perfectly as the way, the truth, and the
life. Help us this day to recollect and meditate upon
the truths which we yesterday received. May Thy
word abide in cur hearts, and bring forth much holy
fruit in our lives. Extend the same blessings wher-
ever Thy Gospel has been proclaimed, far and wide.

O Lord, hold Thou up our goings in Thy paths ;
for only while Thou boldest us up are we safe. We
are in the midst of snares and temptations, which
we see not, or at best see very dimly. Do Thou
then still watch over and guard us ; and inspire us
with holy zeal and courage — with vigilance and de-
votedness to Thy service — as we go forth this day
upon our daily duties.

May we be diligent in them ; make us watchful
against temptation ; not slothful in business, fervent
in spirit, serving the Lord.

May the wicked all around be converted to Thee ;
may the impenitent and unbelieving be brought to
repentance and faith ; may those burdened with sin
and guilt come to Jesus and be relieved.

Bless every member of this family. May we have
been brought together in Thy provide ceto be a full
blessing to each other. May we all, tn rough Thy
imparted grace, bring to each other daily help and
comfort.

Hear us, our God, for Jesus' sake. Amen,

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Family fVorship,

147

MONDAY EVENING.

HEAR us, Lord God Almighty, when we cry
unto Thee ; draw near to us when we draw
near to Thee ; and help us to ask that we may have,
so to seek that we may find, and so to knock at the
door of mercy that it may be opened unto us.

We come before Thee in the name of Thy Son
Jesus Christ. We make mention of His righteousness
only, having none of our own. Guilty as we are
we plead his merits as being alone acceptable in Thy
sight. We look to his atoning sacrifice as the only
ground of our hope ; and we pray that, being justified
by faith, we may have peace with Thee through Him.
For his sake pardon the sins of this day, and all our
past transgressions.

Grant us a right knowledge of Thy holy word.
Teach us, Lore., to believe its doctrines, to rejoice
in its promises, and to obey its commands. Make Thy
way plain before us ; and grant that we may run
therein and not be weary, and walk and not faint.

May we be so sensible of our own unworthiness,
as always to walk humbly with Thee our God ; and
may we at the same time so fully perceive the value
of Christ's salvation, as to come boldly to the throne
of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace
to help in every time of need. Pour upon us the spirit
of supplication. Dispose us to look to Thee for
direction in difficulty; and for relief in distress, and

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Family Worship.

to cast all our care upon Thee, assured that Thou
carest for us.

We thank Thee, God, for all the blessings of
family affection. Help us, in the enjoyment of these
and in all the duties of our family and social life, to
serve and honour Thee. May our obligation to Thee
as our Father and Lord be fulfilled in our fidelity
and affection towards those whom Thou hast given
us to live with and to love. Let no root of bitter-
ness spring up to trouble us. Help us to set a watch
upon our lips that we may not sin, and to keep the
doors of our hearts that we may not think evil.
May we live in the spirit of Him who came not to
be ministered unto but to minister ; who pleased
not Himself. Teach us by love to serve one another.
Clothe us with humility, and give unto us the orna-
ment of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in Thy
sight a pearl of great price.

We thank Thee for all Thy other mercies, tem-
poral and spiritual ; and we pray for grace to value
them, and to profit by them, as we ought to do.
Leave us not nor forsake us, God of our salvation ;
but be Thou our guide through life, our hope in
death, and our portion in eternity.

We commit ourselves to Thy kind protection this
night. May we lie down to rest at peace with Thee
and with all mankind. Grant these our petitions,
merciful Lord, we humblv beseech Thee, for the
sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.

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TUESDAY MORNING.

149

BLESSED LORD, wo thank Thee that Thou hast
permitted us to rise this morning in health
and vigour. We have slept in peace, for Thou hast
made us dwell in safety. Thou hast been mindful
of us, and Thou xvili bless us. We can rest in Thy
promises, and go forth to our various engagements
with the assurance that Thou wilt defend and guide
and prosper us ; for Thou hast said, " I will never
leave thee nor forsake thee." Thou hast adopted us
into Thy family. Thou hast called us, not servants,
but sons. Help us to rejoice in this Thy love,
and to prize and improve this privilege. May we
feel and act as Thy children. Give us perfect confi-
dence in all Thine arrangements ; and whether they
bring us immediate sorrow or joy, may we accept
them with thankfulness. Grant us to love Thee
with trustful, filial love ; to seek Thy face with all
earnestness ; and to find true satisfaction in Thy
favour. May we be able to say without reserve,
" Whom have I in heaven but Thee ? and there is
none on earth that I desire in comparison with Thee."
Help us to yield Thee willing obedience, to run in
the way of Thy Commandments, and v,o serve Thee
with joyful hearts. Help us to take a growing in-
terest in whatever concems Thy kingdom or Thy-
self May we love Thy word, and honour Thy
Church, and declare Thy truth, and celebrate Thy
name. May we be pleased with whatever pleases

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Theo, and luito whatovor grieves or offends Thee.
May wo, through communion with Thee, become
more and more like Thee, and be prepared by the
discipline and instruction of earth for our Father's
house in heaven.

We boseech Thee, Lord, to bless Thy people
everywhere. May they remember that they are
Thy spiritual family, the children of the living God.
May they walk in love, and cleave to each other as
brethren. Heavenly Father, we beseech Thee to
bless all those to whom we are united by relation-
ship or friendship. May they belong to the house-
hold of faith. May they be able to feel that they
have a father in heaven who loves them. May they
cherish the spirit of obedience to Thee, and confi-
dence in Thee. May they be holy and happy, as
becometh Thy children.

Grant us Thy presence and blessing in the active
duties of this day. Strengthen us for labour, give
us wisdom in counsel. May we feel that success
depends on Thee ; and may we desire Thine appro-
bation and Thine help in .all that we undertake.
May we remember that Thy blessing alone maketh
rich and addeth no sorrow therewith. Father, may
we, Thy children, enjoy this blessing, and now and
always acknowledge Thine hand in whatever we
possess. Hear us, we bessech Thee, and comfort our
hearts by Thy Spirit, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

Family Worship.

151

TUESDAY EVENING.

AGAIN, Lord, at the close of another day we
wait upon Thee. All the day long hast
Thou waited upon us. We have been Thy constunt
care. Thou hast sustained our powers of body - \
mind. For all the mercies of the day, and all tne
blessings of the light we bless Thee, and give Thee
heartfelt thanks. In taking leave of the day we
repent of all our folly, sinfulness, and sin ; we for-
sake everything in the pursuit of which we have
forsaken Thee ; we condemn all for which we have
been condemned of Thee ; we neither justify nor
excuse ourselves, but lie under Thy judgments, con-
fessing that Thou art just and true in all Thy ways.

We seek at Thy hand pardon, restoration, and heal-
ing. Have mercy upon us, God, according to Thy
loving-kindness ; according to the multitude of Thy
tender mercies blot out our transgressions. Speak
peace to us ; give us the blessedness of those whose
transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered,
unto whom iniquity is not imputed, and in whose
spirits there is no guile ; restore to us the joy of Thy
salvation ; uphold us with Thy free Spirit.

As members of the same household and of one
family we desire to be reunited to each other in
peace and love ere we separate for the night. Re-
move all estra^ngements that may have arisen ; let
no differences become separations ; let no lukewarm-
ness perpetuate itself; but in good- will, brotherly

152

Family Worship,

kindness, and charity, confessing one to anofclier our
many infirmities and our many sins, we desire to
exercise forgiveness toward each other, and in the
love of our common father bid each other good night,
and part in peace.

During the night be Thou light about us ; watch
over us while we sleep. Thy blessings abound to-
wards us by day, but more divinely Thy blessings
abound to usward while we sleep by night. With-
out our care, without our aid, without our thought
— in ways altogether thine own, hidden and un-
known to us, — Thou renewest and refreshest us, that
by the morning light we may again receive ourselves
as renewed creatures from Thine hand. When we
are as nothing, then Thou art everything to us ; Thy
spring is opened upon our root, and Thy dew lieth all
night upon our branch, and our life becomes fresh
in us, and our strength is renewed in our hand.
Lord, Thou art all things, and givest all things to
Thy beloved in sleep. God, within th' curtain of
Thy darkness, beneath Thine over-spread wing, in the
embrace of Thine arms we lie down to lose ourselves
in Thee. In the morning Thou wilt call us back to
wakefulness in ourselves. Lord, how unsearch-
able Thou art, and Thy ways past finding out ! With
our last thoughts we worship,"and adore and magnify
Thy name. Hear us, Lord; for the sake of Thy
dear Son. Amen.

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Family Worship.

153

WEDNESDAY MORNING.

OLORD GOD ALMIGHTY, we pray Thee now
to deliver us from all wandering thoughts.
Help us to remember in whose presence we are, and
let us worship Thee in spirit and in truth.

Our heavenly Father, we bless Thy name that v?e
are here met together in so much health and comfort ;
and that we have now the prospect of passing
another day in the enjoyment of the bounties of Thy
providence ; while we have also set before us the
blessed hope of everlasting life. We beseech Thee
to give us this day grace to serve Thee in our several
stations, and to walk according to the gospel of
Jesus Christ. Save us from the temptations of the
day ; strengthen us for the fulfilment of our duties ;
direct us in all our difficulties ; and comfort us un-
der any trouble or advei'sity into which wc may this
day come. Grant that when we lie down at night
we may be able to look back on the hours which
shall have passed with an humble confidence that
Thou acceptest our services, and wilt pardon our in-
firmities for Jesus Christ's sake.

We beseech Thee to deliver us from all evil
passions, from ])ride and envy, from hatred and ill-
will, from censoriousness and uncharitableness ; and
especially from the want of Christian kindness to-
wards those who dwell with us in the same family,
and worship Thee together, as partakers of the same
faith. Preserve us, also, from those secret trans-

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164

Family Worship,

gressions which Thine eye alone can discern in us.
Deliver each of us from the sins which most easily
beset us. Lord, grant that Thy good Spirit may
this day abide within us ) and dispose us to every
good work.

Help us, also, to call often to remembrance the
great love of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ ;
who came down from heaven to die for us, that we,
being delivered from the dread of Thy wrath, and
rejoicing in the hope of Thy mercy, might serve
Thee, day by day, in newness of life. O Lord,
strengthen our faith in Him who hath suffered on
the cross for us. Teach us to walk according to His
example. May we, like him, be kind and compas-
sionate, forbearing and forgiving, holy and harmless,
undefiled and separate from sinners.

And bless us, not this day only, but to the end of
our lives. We pray that so long as we remain in
this world of trial. Thou wouldst strengthen us by
Thy Holy Spirit, and comfort us, and continually
direct us. Suffer us not, at any time, to depart from
Thee, who art our Father and our God, through any
allurements of the world, or any temptations of the
flesh or of the Devil, but make us steadfast in Thy
truth, and faithful to Thy cause, and devoted to Thy
service.

We offer up these, our imperfect prayers, in the
name, and through the mediation of our only Sa-
viour, Jesus Christ. Amen,

'V. ''

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Family Worship.
WEDNESDAY EVENING.

155

OLORD GOD, our heavenly Father, we are met
together as a Christian family, to thank Thee
for the mercies of the past day, and to implore Thy
blessing before we lie down to rest. We would ever
remember the frailty of our nature ; and our utter
uncertainty how long we may have to live. We
are placed in this world for a short season, and must
soon enter into eternity. We must go to the Father
of our spirits, and give account of all things done in
the body, and must receive our eternal doom.

O may this awful thought return to our mind
with each returning day ; that we may enter upon
our duties, reflecting on the ends for which we were
born ; and may lie down each night, examining
whether we are so passing our time on earth, as we
shall wish we had done when we are about to die, and
to appear before Thy tribunal. We pray Thee,
Lord, to give us a sacred jealousy over ourselves ;
lest we fall short of our heavenly calling. May we
learn to put our whole trust in Thee, and to place
our delight in serving Thee. Pardon all our dis-
obedience in the time past ; pardon our many negli-
gences, as well as sins ; pardon the wasted time, the
idle words, and the evil tempers of this day.

We would lie down trusting in the merits of
Jesus Christ, our Lord ; in whose gracious promises
to every repenting sinner we place all our hope.
And while we thus commend ouf souls to Thy mer-

156

Family Worship.

cies in Christ, to Thee do we commit all our worldly
affairs. In Thine hands, O Lord, whose providence
it is that bringeth everything to pass, we leave the
issue of all our undertakings; for Thou knowest,
better than ourselves, what is for our good.

We beseech Thee to bless us with all spiritual
blessings, and to sanctify to us the daily events of
our lives. We pray Thee to lay upon us no greater
burthen than we are able to bear ; and to train us,
by Thy merciful goodness and Thy tender care, for
the performance of better services than we have yet
rendered Thee in the world. We pray for strength
against every temptation, and for final victory over
every sin. Arm us for every conflict ; fit us for every
duty we shall have to fulfil. Let us diligently per-
form our work in life ; let us, at the same time, live
in peace and love, and abound in all offices of kind-
ness to each other.

Lord, unite us in one Christian family together.
May we be partakers in the same faith, and heirs of
the same hope. May our united prayers continually
ascend to the throne of Thy heavenly grace ; and
may Thy blessing rest upon us.

Hear us, we beseech Thee, in these our humble
supplications, for Jesus Christ our Saviour's sake
Amen,

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Family Worship,

THUESDAY MOENING.

157

HEAVENLY FATHER, we adore Thee as the
God of nature and of grace. All blessings,
temporal and spiritual, have their oiigin in Thee.
May it please Thee this morning to shed abroad Thy
love in our hearts, and grant that we may feel that
to draw near unto Thee, and to commune by prayer
with Thee, is the most blessed privilege that we en-
joy on earth.

We are unworthy to come into Thy presence, yet
we rejoice to know that Thou dost make us welcome.
Grant that we may feel the burden and bitterness of
our offences as sinful erring children. And may we
come to Thee in the name and through the media-
tion of Thy dear Son. God, we thank Thee for
the gift of life, and for all our social blessings and
comforts. We thank Thee especially for the glorious
manifestation of Thy love in Christ, and for all our
spiritual privileges, and for all the joys and hopes by
which Thou hast revealed Thyself in us. May the
Holy Spirit enlighten our minds, and strengthen
our faith in the atonement of Christ. Grant that
there may be no inconsistency between our knowing
and our doing. Impress upon us more and more
that Christianity is a life ; and may its living truth
regulate us at all times, and sweeten our enjoyments
and moderate and mitigate our sorrows.

May it please Thee to accept of our grateful thanks
for Thy watchful c^re over us during the unconsci-

158

Famibj Worship,

ous hours of the past night, and for Thy great good-
ness to us this morning. Shine upon us throughout
this day. May we not enter into temptation. May
Thy law be our guide, and Thy will our only will.
May Christ be in us the hope of glory. May
we know what it is to be Thy children. May we
be faithful in our love to Thee, and be enabled by
it to display the fruits of the Spirit.

May the Holy Spirit be poured out upon the na-
tions. Be specially merciful to our native land. Grant
that her strength and power may be maintained.
May all that are in authority use the power that
Thou hast given them in Thy fear, and for the public
good. Be gracious to the Church. Bless Thine an-
cient people. May they, with the Gentiles, speedily
realize in Christ the Saviour of the world. Bless all
who are engaged in making Christ known. May
the language of their hearts be, " Come, Lord Jesus,
come quickly." Have mercy on all whom Thou hast
laid on beds of sickness. May they recognize Thy
hand in their chastisements, and be stimulated to
live closer to Thee. Be with all our friends and re-
latives. May they recognise Thy presence, and be
moved to close with the offers of salvation.

These petitions we beseech Thee to answer, through
the merits of our Advocate and Mediator, Jesus
Christ. iLmeii.

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Family Worship.

THUESDAY EVENING.

159

WE adore Thee, God, as our Father in
Christ. May it please Thee to draw us
this evening as a family to Thyself, by Thy great
love towards us. All the comforts that we have
ever tasted, all the blevssings we now enjoy or expect
to enjoy, are blessings flowing from Thee. When
we were in our sins Thou didsc not spare Thine own
Son, but didst deliver Him unto the death for us all.
In each moment of our life Thine all-seeing eye
has watched over us and Thy almighty arm has
supported us. Our whole history is a chain of mer-
cies. Grant that we may have grateful hearts to
Thee for all Thy goodness, and for all the tender in-
terest which Thou hast in us.

May it please Thee to help us now to make a full
surrender of ourselves to Thee. Grant that pride,
and passion, and the love of the world may be
destroyed within us. Grant that the blood of Jesus
Christ may cleanse us from all sin. Give us, we
humbly beseech Thee, Thy Holy Spirit. Quicken
us to newness of life. May there be a response to
Thee in our body, and soul, and spirit. May the
whole sympathies of our being go forth to Thee.
May the whole tenor of our words, and thoughts,
and actions show to the world that we are guided
by the wisdom that cometh from above.

May it please Thee, O God, for Christ's sake, to
forgive the sins of this day ; all our ingratitude, our

160

Family Worship.

waywardness, and neglect of Thy law. Grant that
wo may lay ourselves down to rest this night at
peace with one another, and with all mankind, and
with Thee ; and if it be Thy will to spare us, may
we rise to enter on the duties and trials of a new
day in Thy fear, depending on Thy grace.

These great blessings that we beg for ourselves,
we beseech Thee to extend to all men. May the
Holy Spirit be poured out upon the Church. May
the careless be awakened to see and to feel the real
evil of that which now they blindly follow as their
good. May Thy people everywhere rejoice. Draw
uear to those who are dear to us by whatever tie.
May they be united to Thee, and give evidence of
their union. Be gracious to all who are mourning
on account of bereavement. May they live by faith
on Thee, and evermore feel that all things are work-
ing together for their good.

Manifest Thyself in an especial manner to those
who are approaching the gates of death. May they
believe on Thee, and stay themselves on God. Take
from them the fear of death. May they feel that
they have a real victory through Christ. May this
faith sustain them till they see Thy face in glory.

Forgive us our sins, and hear our prayer, for
Christ's sake. Amen,

I i

Family Worship.

161

I ^ f

Hi'1

FRIDAY MORNING.

ALMIGHTY God, the Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven
and earth is named, we thank Thee for all the many
mercies which we as a family have received from
Thy grace and goodness. All our peace and love,
all the provision for our daily wants, and the dif-
ferent relations of parents and children, masters and
servants, come from Thee the one Parent of us all,
for our mutual comfort and edification, and for
Thy glory.

Blessed be our heavenly Father, who does not
leave him.self without constant witness of His love,
day by day. x)uring the defenceless hours of dark-
ness we have been safe under Thy protection ; the
morning light we owe to Thy love, and all the re-
newed blessings of another day. Thanks be unto
Him who daily loadeth us with His benefits. He
that is our God is the God of salvation ; and unto
God the Lord belong the issues from death.

The same continued care and kindness we now
ask of Thee for this day. In Thee we live, and
move, and have our being. May we live in the
constant remembrance that every breath we draw,
every step we take, everything that we do, or fear,
or hope for, is under the direction of Thy constant
providence, and that our whole strength is in Thee.
Watch over us for good. Help us wholly to confide
in Thee, as altogether righteous and good in all Thy

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162

Family Worship.

ways, and one who has made provision for the sal-
vation of all who call upon Thy name, through tho
Lord Jesus Christ. Give unto us, then, all things
needful and profitable for our souls and for our
bodies tlus day.

And, O Lord, teach us, sinful as we are, to rely
with our whole souls on Thy promised mercy in
Christ Jesus. On that sure foundation may all our
hopes be built, and, believing in Him, may we fol-
low tho very footsteps of His most holy life. Give
us grace to set His example always before us, and
daily to become more like Him.

And, O Lord, extend the same blessings to the
whole human race. We commend unto Thee the
poor, the needy, and the afflicted. We beseech Thee
to look upon those who are living without Christ,
and reveal Thy Son unto them. Fity the lost sheep
of the house of Israel, and gather them back into
the fold of the Good Shepherd. Send forth labour-
ers into the harvest of the heathen world, so that at
length all the ends of the world may remember,
and turn unto the Lord, and all the kindreds of the
nations may worship before Thee, through Jesus
Christ our Redeemer. Armn,

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Family Worship.
FRIDAY EVENING.

103

OLORD, Thou art our Shepherd, therefore wo
shall not want. It is Thine own gracious
declaration, that they who seek Thee shall want no
manner of good thing ; the eyes of all do wait upon
Thee, and Thou satisfiest the desire of every livino^
creature. Receive us, O our God,, in the name of tli(\
Mediator between God and man, the man Christ
Jesus, and for His sake supply all our need out of
Thy riches in glory by Jesus Christ.

"We come as a family before Thee, confessing our
sinfulness in Thy sight. However free from hunum
blame and condemnation our conduct may hn\e
been, we dare not attempt to justify ourselves in Tliy
sight. Thou knowest the heart and all its abomi-
nations. Thou knowest the secret springs of wluit
may appear fair to man. Before our own conscience
and in Thy sight, we are verily guilty, and justly
exposed to the righteous condemnation of Thy per-
fect law. God ought to have been inall our thoughts,
but He has been greatly forgotten by us. We have
not recollected Thine ever-gracious eye watching
over us, and Thy universal presence, in which we
live and move and have our being, ever surrounding
us. We have disregarded Thy favour and Thy glory,
and sought the honour which cometh from man.

O Lord, give us a realizing .and truly humbling
view of our own sinfulness ; bestow upon us that
godly sorrow which worketh repentance unto salva-

164

Family Worship.

tion, not to bo repented of. Enable iia to see the
impossibility of standing before, Thee in any right-
eousness of our own, and reveal distinctly to us that
in the Lord alone have wo righteousnessand strength.
Wo implore of Thee the gifts of a loving, purifying,
working, conquering faith, and of a hope which
maketh not ashamed, full of immortality ; a helmet
of salvation, and an anchor within the veil ; and yet
further we earnestly pray that wo may know the
more excellent way of charity, and receive every one
a larger and fuller endowment of that inestimably
precious grace of love, which is the very bond of
perfectness.

We beseech Thee to make us decided and fixed
in Thy ways. Oh, keep us from that false shame
which is so injurious to Thee, to ourselves, and to
others. God, be Thou our glory and our joy. Let
us ever speak good of Thy name, and never be
ashamed to confess our Saviour and His gospel, and
His people, in this sinful and evil world.

Bless all our family plans. Let them all be or-
dered as it becometh a Christian household, and let
the kingdom of Christ be first in all our thoughts.
Lord Jesus, Thou must increase ! Fulfil Thine own
glorious office, and Thine own gracious purposes, as
the light of the Gentiles, and the giory of thy peo-
ple Israel. Accomplish speedily Thine own pro-
mises of love and goodness to our world, and bring
all to know Thee, from the least to the greatest.
Amen,

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Family Worship.

SATURDAY MORNING.

165

O EVERLASTING GOD, who didst give Thine
only Son to be the Light of the world, that
whosoever believeth in Him might not walk in
darkness ; we beseech Thee to cast upon us.
Thy unworthy servants, the bright beams of His
light, that we may awake from the sleep of sin to
the life of righteousness, and live no longer to our-
selves, but unto Him who died for us and rose again.

Grant that we may not love the darkness because
our deeds are evil. Make us willing to see the light
uf truth, even when it shames and reproves us.
Quicken our consciences, that we may feel the bur-
den of our sins, and come to Thee through our Lord
Jesus Christ, for deliverance from them. Try us,
God, and search our hearts. Show us any wicked
way that is in us, and cleanse us even from our se-
cret faults. Keep Thy servants from presumptuous
sins, lest they get dominion over us. Let the words
of our lips, and the meditation of our hearts, be
always acceptable in Thy sight, Lord, our strength
and our Redeemer.

Grant, Lord, that we may so give heed now to
the word of Christ's Gospel, that it may not rise
against us in judgment at the last day. Make us to
know and feel that it is Thy Word, and not man's.
Give it entrance into our hearts, that we may ponder
it, and love it, and live by it. Suffer us not to love
the praise of men more than the praise of God.

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Family Worship,

Suffer us not to receive honour one from another
instead of seeking the honour which cometh from
Thee only. In all things may we set before us Thy
will and Thy glory, knowing that those that honour
Thee Thou wilt honour.

Almighty God, enable us thus to live throughout
the day which is now opening. May we set Thee
always before us, as our Lord and our God. Into
Thy hands we commend ourselves, praying Thee to
give us that which is good, and to keep us from evil.
May we be in the world, yet not of it. Suggest,
direct, control all our thoughts and words and ac-
tions. Bless our undertakings. Prosper Thou the
work of our hands upon us. Bless us, and make us
a blessing.

God, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind,
we pray Thee to grant to others also the mercies
and loving-kindnesses which we ask for ourselves.
We pray Thee to enlarge the borders of Thy Church,
which is the blessed company of all faithful people.
Grant Thy grace to all who minister in the woid
and sacraments. Give them wisdom to teach aright,
and the spirit of holiness to adorn their doctrine
by a good example. To all conditions and circum-
stances of Thy people, vouchsafe, Lord, the need-
ful comfort and help and blessing.

Hear us, O Lord, and mercifully grant our
petitions, through Jesus Christ, our only Mediator
and Redeemer, Amen.

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Family Worship,

SATURDAY EVENING.

167

ALMIGHTY FATHER, who hast safely brought
us to the last night of another week, help
to give our latest thoughts to Thee, and to prepare
ourselves in Thy presence for the holy duties and
pleasures of the morrow.

\\ c thank Thee, O God, for the blessings of the
week which is now ending. We acknowledge as Thy
gift each comfort and refreshment, each privilege
and opportunity, which it has brought to us. It is
of Thee, O Lord, that we are at this hour among the
living ; because Thou hast preserved to us the life
which Thou hast given, and hast not suffered our
many iniquities to be our ruin. grant that Thy
goodness may lead us to repentance, and incline our
hearts to devote to Thy service the residue of our
time on earth.

Lord, we would hide nothing from Thee of all
that we have done amiss. For Thou, Lord, art
gracious, and full of compassion ; Thou knowest
whereof we are made, and in Thy mercy remembere.st
that we are but dust. We were all shapen in wick-
edness ; as soon as we were born we began to go
astray ; there is no good thing in us.

Forgive, Father, for our Lord Jesus Christ's
sake, all that is past ; every wicked imagination,
every wrong desire, every idle word, every careless
and disobedient action. For^jive the neo^liij^cnces and
omissions of duty, forgive the wasted opportunities,

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168

Family Worship,

forgive the evil tempers, and uncharitable feelings,
and injurious influences, of the week that is now
ended. Wash us from all our sins in the blood of
Jesus Christ, and cleanse the thoughts of our hearts
by the inspiration of Thy Holy Spirit.

Protect us, O Heavenly Fatlicr, through the night
which is beginning ; and quicken our souls in the
morning to love and profit by the blessed rest of
Thy holy day. Grant that it mny bo to us, not a
day of gloom or bondage, but of holy and happy
freedom. May we remember Thee in Thy works,
and bless Thee for having endued us with farulhos
for knowing and loving Thee. May we remember
Thee in Thy Holy Word, and bless Tlieo for having
given it to us for our learning, our comfort, and our
admonition. May we remember Thee in Thy Son
Jesus Christ, and bless Thee for having sfnt to us
the Gospel of Thy salvation. May we remember
Thee in Thy Holy Spirit, whom Thou hast promised
to them that ask Him.

And we pray Thee, O Father, so to spread abroad
in the earth the knowledgn of Thy truth and of
Thy salvation, that at last, according to Thy promise,
a great multitude, which no man can number, may
stand before Thy throne, clothed in the white
robes of them that have overcome, to give glory for
ever and ever to Thee, our Father and Saviour and
Ccuiforter, who art one God, world without en<l.
A men.

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Family IVorsldp. 169

SABBATH MOENING.

OLORD, our heavenly Father, we thank Thee
for the return of the day of rest, pre-
pare our hearts by Thy Holy Spirit to spend it in
Thy fear and love. May our souls rest it} Thee, and
may the quiet hours which Thy considerate goodness
has provided for us, prove rich in blessing to us ail.

Thou hast given us Thy holy word to teach us
Thy will, and to guide us into all truth. Open Thou
our eyes that we may behold the wonderful things
(Contained in Thy law. Let not the darkness and
prejudice, or the weakness and incapacity of our
own minds, prevent our discovering its precious
stores ; but grant us Thy light, that its words may
be to us both spirit and life, O that, as we read
we may be enriched by Thy wisdom and filled with
Thy joy.

We especially implore Thee to reveal to our souls
this day the grace and glory of our risen Lord.
maj/ the contemplation of His sufferings and humili-
ation, His resurrection and ascension. His .itoning
work and great salvation, deepen our love to Him,
and render our confidence in Him perfect. May we
be enabled to comprehend with all saints wliat is
the breadth and length and l{;j»ir! ,'^nd height, and
to know the love of ^'i is-, wh r,l» passeth know-
ledge. Mm}' we, as nv. uelifl 1 il':.;gluiy, be changCvl

170

Family Worship.

into His image, from glory t<> glory, as by the Spirit
of the Lord.

Father, we beseech Thee to assist us in all the
services of Thy house.

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arcl supplication that we may with oui whole heaifc
worship Thee. Quicken our undcistanaing that we
may understand Thy truth; dispense our wills to
obey it. Make us joyful in Thine house of prayer,
and let us feel that by its calm devotion, and its
wise and stimulating instructions, we are strength-
ene I for the labours and anxieties of another week.
Assist the ministers of Thy gosi)cl to preach Thy
word with power. May they build up and comfort
Thy people, and lead many sinners to Christ, and
may all those who teach the young, or visit and in-
struct the ignorant, find that the i)0\ver of the Lord
is present to save.

Preserve us iVom worldly thoughts. Let not
the cares of business, or the ])leasuvcs of life, intrude
on hours which are sacred to Thee. Let oiu* con-
versation be such as may promote the edification of
the family. Let our minds dwell spontaneously on
subjects which relate to Thy kingdom, {ind which
will ten<l to our sanctification and esta])lishment in
the faith.

Heavenly Father, we besee(*h Tlieo bO hear and
answer ih'se our ]irayois. Give us each l»our the
li;»j;py scnsi^ of Thy pr^^sonro, ;,;id at the close of
tlu' (lav n*ay wr fc^'l that w*; anj still with "j'lu^e.
Grant it, O Lord, U^v the sake of Jesus Christ, Thy
S.m and ouv Sav'our. Amen.

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Family Worship.

SABBATH FVENING.

171

WE come before Thee, O Lord, at the close of
Thy holy Sabbath, to offer unto Thee our
evening sacrifice of prayer and praise ; to give Thee
thanks for the mercies of the day, and to commit
ourselves for the night to Thy gracious protection.
Glory be to Thee for the day of rest and worship,
for the sacred hours which have passed over us, and
for all we have enjoyed daring their stay, of Christian
fellowship, sympathy, and communion. A day in
irhy courts is better than a thousand ; we had rather
be door-keepers in the house of our God than dwell
In the tents of wickedness. Again hast Thou bro-
ken to us by Thy ministers, Thy Sj)irit, and Thy
word, the living and life-giving bread. May the
sacred satisfactions of Thy house be as enduring as
they are precious; may the influence of the Sal)b{ith
go with us throughout all the week. May no day
and no duty be deemed by us common or unclean ;
but whether we eat or drink, buy or sell, rule or
serve, may we do all to Thy glory.

Hearken, O Lord, to the prayers in which wo have
joined this day, the public and uttered supplications
of Thy people • i.iid gi-aciously remember, and fulfil
also, the |)rivate breathing of individual souls, the
desires secretly ])oured into Thine ear, or made
known by groaninij-s that could not be uttircd.
Foi-give the formality and thoughtlessness wliich
have mingled with all our sei vices this day. TT.'ivc

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Family Worship.

mercy on those who, though surrounded by light,
walk in darkness; who know not their spiritual
destitution, and are unaffected by the sinfulness of
sin ; who are not conscious of that spiritual hunger
and thirst which Thou hast promised to satisfy, and
for which Thou hast provided so richly in the gospel
of Thy Son. O that all who hear of the common
salvation might be partakers of its blessedness,
might be filled with joy and peace in believing, and
know by experience the happiness of conformity to
the holy and acceptable and perfect will of God.
May the blessedness of waiting upon Thee be so felt
by each of us as to prompt the exclamation, Lord,
it is good to be here !

Animated and refreshed by the duties and enjoy-
ments of this holy day, rejoicing m Thy love and
care, we would now gather ourselves together under
the wing of Thy protection, and commit ourselves
to Thee, that we may be preserved from the perils
and dangers of this night. The day and the night,
the light and the darkness, are alike Thine. \¥e
close our eyes under Thy sleepless guardianship \
so let our weeks and Sabbaths be ever Thine, that
when all ordinances which are made lor man shall
have ceased, we may enter upon that liigher life ior
which man was made, and for which we have been
redeemed.

Hear us, Lord, in heaven, Thy dwelling-place,
fulfil all our prayers, receive mu* praise, accept and
bless us, for Jesus' sake. Amen.

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MONDAY MORNINO.

173

HEAVENLY FATHER, whoso we arc, and
whom it is ovir gh^ry to serve, wo bless Thee
that Thou hast brouglit us through sleep and dark-
ness to the beginning of another day. Help us to
come to Thee this morning in the name, and plead-
ing the merits of Jesus,

May the Holy Si)irit descend upon us, and fdl us
with joy ; and with true hearts and minds may wo
worship Thee in spirit and in truth. Praised be Thy
name for the fjreat love wherewith Thou hast loved
us, and of which Thou hast given proof in the Cross
and passion of Thy dear Son, our Saviour. May it
please Thee to pardon all our past sins and ollences.
Enable us to Hoe from ourselves to Thee. Heal us,
we humbly pray Thee, for Thy mercy's sake. Re-
vive our souls. May we believe in Thy love, and
feel that we are ever surrounded by Thy yiresence.

Grant that the holy services of yesterday, may
strengthen us for the duties and the trials tliat ai'o
I'efore us this week. May we see Thee, and hear
Thy voice in everything. May we never lose tlio
feeling tl.at we are strangers and foreigners, having
our true country and home in heaven. Grant that
(mr faith in Christ niay become more simple anc^
childlike, and our wills evermore in harjiiony with
Thy will. Give us increuMrd rin'Mi^stiiesH in T)*v
service. D(»li\>n \\h froni gininidlcHs fears. DdivrJ
u juiui seU lioulidence and self-scoking. Suifcr us

174

Family Worship,

not to rest ill tho iiiero [)rofo.s.si()ii of religion. May
we be moved by its life and power. Grant that all
the events of life — our comforts and crosses— our joys
and sorrows — may be improved to Thy glory.

Holy Spirit of God, may it j)lease Thee to bless us
this day. Take away all evil from our hearts. Give
us an increase of personal religion. Enable us to
cultivate the spirit of Jesus. May we endeavour to
promote the Gospel in the spirit of the Gospel. May
all our secular duties this day become sacred from
the heavenly motives f^om which they are done.
Almighty God, vouchsafe to us whatever is neces-
sary to our glorifying Thee here below, that we may
be prepared by Thy grace and mercy for everlastingj
happiness.

Have mercy on the ungodly and impenitent.
Grant that they may be weaned from all sinful and
woj'ldly influences, and moved to glorify Thee with
their lives. Be very gracious to the bereaved and
dying. Cheer their souls with the overtures of love
and mercy. We conxmend unto Thee the poor.
May it please Theo to satisfy their wants, and enrich
tliom with the blessing of peace. Manifest Thyself
to our friends and our kindred according to the llesh.
May they be Thine by adoption, and evermore re-
cognize tloMr son-sliip.

lieiir in /irid niiiwer us, for the sake of Thy dear
Son, our Snviour. Amen,,

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Family Worship,

MONDAY EVENING.

175

MOST holy and ever blessed God, may it pleaso
Thee to hear us, when wo call u])()n Thee at
the close of anotlun* d.'ty, in the name of Jesus, our
only mediator and advocate. Grant tliat we may
recognize Thy presence and be enabled to stay our
hearts on Thoe.

Thy glory, God, is in the heavens. Thy truth
reacheth unto the clouds, and the earth is fall of
Thy wonders. Thou art our Father and our friend.
We bless Thee for the testimony of Thy power and
wisdom and goodness in all creation and providence.
We bless Thee especially for the fuller and clearer
revelation Thou hast given to us of Thy nature and
attributes in the person of Jesus Christ.

Pardon all transgressions of Thy holy law this
day. Grant us true repentance. Manifest Thyself
to us in Ch rist. Give us grace evermore to bel ieve
the doctrines contained in Thy holy word, and
strength to practice the precepts which Thou hast
given us for our rule of life. Pour out Thy holy
Spirit upon us. Enlighten us that we may rise
above earthly things. May we be delivered from
the power of indwelling corruption. Increase in us
all the graces of the Spirit. Grant that our acquain-
tance with Thy mind and will may be enlarged, and
that we may enjoy the lofty position of those who
are Thine own in Christ.

Holy Spirit of God, lead us and guide us evermore

176

Family Warship,

as a family, into tho love of Christ, and into the fel-
lowship of his sufFeriiigs, and into tho earnest looking
and waiting for his appearing.

Almighty God, may it please Tlico to bless tho
church over all tho earth. May its members bo knit
together in unity. Bo gracious to the young. Keep
them from the evil of this evil world. Grant that
they may hear Thee speaking to them, and saying.
My son, my daughter, give Me thine heart. Enrich
them with Thy salvation. Strengthen them to give
evidem^e that they are Thine. Have mercy on the
widow and the fatherless, and the orphan. Give
them peace. Grant that they may suffer meekly —
that they may grow in grace, and rejoice in Thee„
Draw near to tho dying. May they be moved to cast
themselves on Christ, and grant that the faith of his
sacrifice and intercession may sustain them.

Manifest Thyself to all our kindred and friends and
neighbours. Grant that they may have a place in
Thy mercy. Guard them and us from all dangers dur-
ing the coming night. And to Thee the only wise
God, be glory through Jesus Christ. Amen,

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177

TUESDAY MOIINIMG.

ALMIGHTY and eternal God, now present with
us, Thine eye upon every heart, Thine ear
open to every desire, and waiting now to be gi-acious
to us in Christ Jesus, give us ever to feel that it is
our richest privilege to approach Thy throne of grace.
We now seek of Thee those things which are need-
ful for our souls and for our bodies, which Jesus
alone is worthy to receive for us, and which He is
exalted to bestow.

Assist us in all that lies before us this day. Be
present with us in everything in which we are en-
gaged. In study and in labour, in silence and in
conversation, in company and in retirement, in busi-
ness and in relaxation, at home and abroad, in trials
and in joys, still be near to our souls ; and in all
the varied circumstances of this day, let our fullest
joy be in Thy presence, our one desire to do Thy will,
and our great object to be approved b}^ Tliee.

We are very far from Thy mind and Thy image,
blessed Lord Jesus. We feel the inward workings of
pride and vanity, self-will and earthly -mindedness ;
but O make us like Thyself, muck and lowly, and
delighting to do God's will ; and with one mind may
we seek the glory of our heavenly Father.

We are weak to do what Thy Sjurit in us has
taught us to desire. We fall unless Thou sustain us.
Hold Thou up our goings in Thy paths, that our
footsteps slip not. Impress so deeply and strongly

178

Family Worship.

upon our minds the sense of our own sinfulness and
weakness, that v,"e may be constantly looking to
Thee for righteousness and strength, and receiving
out of the fulness of Christ the grace which we
need.

Help us in each duty of this day, whether towards
Thee, ou)'selves, our family, our kindred, or society.
May we be the earnest and simple-minded followers
of the Lord Jesus Christ, not slothful in business,
but fervent in spirit, serving the liOrd ; kindly affec-
tioned one to another, with brotherly love, in honour
preferring one another. Assist us in all the tempta-
tions and difficulties of the day ; and make us ready
to seize all its opportunities of doing good. Give us
wisdom to discern what our own duties are, and
grace in patient diligence and self-denial to fulfil
them ; and through all may intercourse in secret with
our God be hidden joy and consolation.

God Almighty bless not only our family, but the
families whom we know and love. Multiply Thy
grace and peace upon all around us. Accept our grate-
ful thanksgivings for blessings without number to
our bodies and our souls, to our families and to our
friends this day continued and multiplied to us. But
above all, we praise Thee for Thine unspeakable gift,
J esus our Lord and our Saviour, to whom with Thee,
O J^'ather, and Thee, Holy Ghost, be all honour and
glory, now and for ever. Amen.

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TUESDAY EVENING.

170

OLORD JESUS CHBIST, the king of glory
exalted at the right hand of God to be a
Prince and a Saviour, to give us rej^entance and re-
mission of sins. Thou hast promised that wheretwo
or three are met together in Thy name, Thou art in
the midst of them ; enable us in faith to approach
now unto Thee, and give unto us all that Thou hast
promised to those who ask aright. Thou hast in-
vited the weary and heavy-laden to come unto
Thee, and take upon them Thy easy yoke and Thy
light burden, that they may find rest for their souls ;
give us grace thus to come unto Thee and obtain
rest.

Almighty Father draw us unto Jesus, that we
may come to Him, and be raised up by Hin at the
last day. O that our daily life may be a constant
coming to Christ, a constant receiving out of His
fulness, a life of continual faith in the Son of God.

Bless the church to which we belong, and all the
ministers of Christ in every place, and send forth
everywhere more labourers into Thy harvest. Bless
especially our own beloved country, and all efforts
for the increase of divine knowledge in it, and for
its spiritual as well as temporal welfare. When the
enemy comes in like a flood, Spirit of the Lord,
lift up a standard against Him. Clothe Thy priests
with Thy righteousness, and make Thy people joyfiil
in Tiiy salvation. Let Thy word descend as the rain

180

Family Worshijj.

and the dew, and refresh our weary land, that it may
become ai. a fruitful field, and a vineyard of the
Lord's planting.

We would now lie down at peace with Thee and
with our fellow -men. Protect us by Thy good pro-
vidence from every evil during the defenceless hours
of sleep ; refresh us with quiet repose, and let us
awake with Thee present to our thoughts in the
morning. that we may so measure our days as to
know how frail we are, and how short our time is.

Regai'd each of us, and of our relations, according
to our individual wants, and give to each that mercy,
grace, and strength which we individually require
for our special temptations, dangers, sins, and neces-
sities ; according to the fulness of Thy love in Jesus,
our only Lord and Saviour. Amen,

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Family Worship,

181

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WEDNESDAY MOENING.

WE bless and praise and magnify Thee,
God of our fathers, who hast led us out
of the shadows of night once more into the light of
day. Unto Thy loving kindness we make our en-
treaty ; be merciful to our misdeeds ; accept our
prayers in the fulness of Thy compassions, for Thou
art our Refuge from one generation to another,
merciful and almighty God. Suffer the true sun of
Thy righteousness to shine in our hearts, enlighten our
reason, and purify our senses ; so that we may walk
honestly as in the day, in the way of Thy command-
ments, and reach at last the life eternal, where we
shall rejoice in Thy inaccessible light. For Thou
art the Fountain of Life, and in Thy light shall we
see light.

Lord, Thou hast searched us out and known us.
Thou understand est all our ways. Bestow on us, O
God, a hearty desire so to live as Thou hast com-
manded Thy children, and according to the pattern
that Jesus has left us. Alas ! we often find that
first one temptation, and then another, draws us
aside from the right path. Sometimes we are seduced
by our own hearts with their unchecked desires ; some-
times enticed by the world with its evil examples ;
bu+. in either case alike we displease Thee and wound
our own consciences. Therefore we cry unto Thee
to-day, O lead and guide us by Thy good Spirit in
a plain path. Behold we yield ourselves wholly

182

Family Worship.

unto Thee ; as Thou didst lead Thy people through
the sea and the desert into the Promised Land, so
guide us through the dangers of life, and the wilder-
ness and temptations of the world, with a good con-
science and void of offence, till we reach the life
eternal.

Suffer us never henceforth willingly to sin against
Thee, but to become in truth, and be known of all
men to be true and pious Christians. And if, in our
weakness and folly, we even resist Thy Spirit, yet
take Him not away ; leave us not to our own will
and guidance, for if we are left to ourselves we shall
surely go astray. Give us a holy watchfulness in all
we do and say, and write Thy love and fear in our
hearts, that we may, in all that we do this day,
govern ourselves by Thy v/ord, and follow the exam-
ple of our blessed Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.

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183

I I

WEDNESDAY EVENING.

OLORD GOD, our Father in Heaven, Lord of
our life, Thy works are pure goodness and
truth. Thou hast kept us in life this day, and hast
shown us much loving kindness, and preserved us
from evil ; therefore our mouth is full of Thy praise.
But we are ashamed before Thee, O God, for we have
once more sinned against Thee this day ; we have
not trod unswervingly in Thy path of duty. Ah,
Lord, who can tell how oft he offendeth ; forgive
ns even our secret faults. Help us to overcome them,
O, Tnou Consolation of Israel, and dispel our mis-
deeds as a cloud, and our sins as the morning mist.
Redeem us, and purify our consciences from dead
works, through the cross of Thy Son, Jesus Christ,
and withdraw not Thy helping hand from us.

O blessed Lord, abide with us now, for the day is
far spent, and the night is at hand. We cannot
thank and magnify Thee enough, O God, for the love
and faithfulness, the mercy and goodness which
have followed us throughout this day; be Thou now
through the night our ever-present Defender and
Shield. We confess that we have given Thee cause
to hide Thy face from us, for we have sinned much
and often against Thee. Thou seest, O heavenly
Father, that in us dwelleth no good thing ; for even
when to will is present with as, we often cannot do
that which is right. But what we cannot do, our
Redeemer hath done for us ; where we have failed.

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Family Worship,

He hath made amends. Accept Him, O God, as the
Mediator between Thee and us, througli whom we
may be reconciled and at peace with Thee.

Behold, blessed Father, the night is gathering
fast, the darkness surrounds us ; leave us not, O
Thou who art our Light ; go not down upon our
hearts, Thou our Sun ! Watch over and defend
us, parents and children, our liousehold and home,
our health and wealth ; and keep us from harm and
danger. Now that we would seek our rest, we en-
trust our souls and bodies to Thee, in sure confidence
that they are safe in Thy keeping. When we sleep
do Thou watch over us ; be our Shield against the
fiery darts of the wicked one, that no evil thoughii
arise in our hearts. Let Thy fatherly arms be around
us that no harm may come nigh our dwelling. Ma}
we rest beneath the shadow of Thy wings, and say
with David, " We can lay us down and sleep in peace,
for Thou, Lord, makest us to dwell in safety." Hear
us for Thy dear Son's sake. Amen.

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185

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THUESDAY MORNING.

MOST ^acious and merciful God, who hast
protected us through the night, hast re-
freshed us with sleep, and liast brought us together
this morning in peace, — we desire to present unto
Thee our unfeigned thanks and praise for all Thy
various and great mercies. We confess that we are
unworthy to come into Thy presence, before whom
the angels veil their faces, and in whose sight the hea-
vens are not clean; for our lives have l)een unholy, and
our sins many and great. If therefore Thou shouldst
mark iniquity, Lord, who shall stand ? But we
rejoice that there is with Thee forgiveness and
plenteous redemi)ti()n, through Jesus Christ Thy Son.
Pleadii.g, therefore, His sacrifice, and trusting in His
intercession, we approach the throne of Thy grace
and say, " God be merciful to us sinners, for Jesus
Christ's sake." Lord, grant unto us true repentance
and a lively faith.

We pray that, through faith in the blood of Thy
Son, we may obtain peace in our consciences ; and
that through that blessed hope which is set before
us, we may be raised above the various troubles,
disappointments, and temptations of this present evil
world.

We pray, also, that through the knowledge of Thy
truth, and the help of Thy Spirit, we may be disposed
to fulfil every precept of Thy word. May we do
unto all men as we would that they should do unto

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Fawilji Worship,

ns; and may wo forgive one another, even as wo
hope to be forgiven. May wo be clothed with
humility ; and denying all ungodliness and worldly
lusts, may we live soberly, righteously, and godly
in this present world. May wo be content with
such things as we have ; fulfilling, each of us, our
proper duties ; and watching against anger, malice^
hatred, envy, and all other evil tempers which are
ready to rise up within us. And thus doing Thy
will, and walking in Thy ways, and improving every
talent committed to us, may we wait for the second
coming of our Lord.

We also most humbly beseech Thee, Father
of mercies, to look down with an eye of favour on all
our friends and relations.

Give success to the labours of the ministers of Thy
gospel. Bless and purify Thy Church. Have com-
passion on our native land ; and though many sins
testify against us, take not away the means of grace
so long afforded us.

Bless our Queen, and all in authority ; direct the
public measures to our best interests, and to Thy
glory ; and teach all orders of men to serve their
generation according to Thy will. And grant that
all the changes in the kingdoms of the world may
issue in Thy glory, and in the furtherance of Thy
gospel.

These, and all other things needful for us, we ask
in the name of J esus Christ our Lord. Amen,

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Family Worship.

187

r -' ' P

TlIUllSDAY EVENING.

LORD, our heavenly Father, Ahniglity and
most merciful God, wo are met together to
offer as a Christian family our united prayers and
supplication unto Thee. Thou understandest the
secrets of all our hearts. Thou hast known all the
circumstances of our past lives, and art acquainted
with the present disposition of all our minds. Thou
knowest whether we are of the number of those who
live in thoughtlessness and forgetfulness of Thee,
and persist in their impenitence, not seeing their
danger ; or whethei we are of that happy number
who have embraced Thy gospel with true contrition
of heart, and have obeyed its solemn call to repen-
tance and newness of life.

O Lord, suffer not that any of us should harden
our hearts against Thee. May we fear lest death
should overtake us in our sins ; and if we are yet
negligent of the things which make for our everlast-
ing peace, may we begin to seek the salvation of our
souls with earnestness and anxiety. But if an^ ol
us have already received Thy truth in the love of it,
if any of us have already repented truly of our sins^
and begun to lead a new life, and to walk in the way
of Thy commandments, we pray that we may learn
to follow them fully to the end.

Lord, how great is the privilege of those who
can thus look up with holy confidence unto Thee !
How blessed are they who have Him for their friend

188

Family Worship.

who mado heaven and earth, and hath all things un-
der his government. We pray Thee to receive us
into Thy favour, to adopt us into Thy family, and
to make all things work together for our good.

Having sought first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness, may all other things he added unto
us. May Thy merciful providence direct the events
of our lives. May Thine arm be stretched out to
protect us. May Thy Spirit sustain and strengthen
us ; and if it should please Thee to visit us with
trials and afflictions, may Thy grace sanctify all our
sorrows, and cause them to be instrumental to our
eternal benefit.

We now commit ourselves to Thee for this night,
earnestly beseeching Thee to pardon our sins, and to
take us under Thy gracious protection. May we
rise up in the morning with every good desire grow-
ing up in us, and go to the duties of the following
day remembering that we are candidates for a
heavenly prize, and looking beyond these temporal
things to a better and more enduring inheritance.

We offer up these our imperfect prayers in the
name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen,

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Family Worship.

189

i !K

FRIDAY MORNING.

ALMIGHTY GOD, give us gi-ace to worship
Thee this morning under a due sense of Thy
supreme majesty, Thy tender compassion, and Thy
perfect holiness. Inspire us also, we pray Thee, with
a lively trust in the sacrifice and intercession of our
Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we are invited to
come boldly unto the throne of grace.

We give Thee humble and hearty thanks for the
./est and security of the past night Under the
shadow of the Almighty we have dw jit in safety.
In Thee, O Lord, we live, and move, and have our
being.

May it please Thee, heavenly Father, to grant
that we may pass through this day walking in Thy
fear, and in the comfort o.^ the Holy Ghost. Feed
us with food convenient for us. Bless the work of
our hands, erabling us to provide things honest in
the sight of all men ; and to have, if it be Thy will,
wherewith to relieve the indigent, and assist in
maintaining Thy kingdom among men. Assist us
to perform the duties of this day with singleness of
eye as unto the Lord; to receive its enjoyments as
gifts from Thy hand ; and to derive spiritual good
from all its various events. Sanctify to us the neces-
sary afflictions of this mortal life. Enable us to bear
them with patience ; confiding in the goodness of
Him who chastens us, as a father his children, and
makes us partakers of his holiness.

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Family Worship,

Preserve us, Lord, in the hour of temptfttion,
that we fall into no sin. From coveting or sharing
unrighteous gains ; from all love of the world, in-
consistent as it is with the love of the Father ; and
from the corruption which is in the world throu,g:h
the lust of power- riches, or pleasures — wo beseech
Thee to deliver us. May all our works spring from
faith, and be done in charity ; that so, by the grace
of the Holy Spirit, and through the merits of our
Kedeemer, we may attain to, and ever hold fast, the
hope of everlasting life. Breathe on us, Lord, the
spirit of mutual love and domestic peace ; that our
family may present an example of holy concord, and
show how good and how pleasant it is for brethren
to dwell together in unity. Fit us likewise for the
faithful discharge of our social and relative duties ;
that while we live we may serve our generation ;
and that when we die we may prove the blessedness
of them that die in the Lord.

We commend to Thy mercy the sick and the
needy, the widow and the orphan, and all who feel
the burden of unpardoned sin. Bless, we pray Thee,
our relatives and friends, our neighbours and coun-
trvmen, and convert such as are ungodly from the
error of their ways. Finally, we beseech Thee to
have mercy upon all men. Let thy way be known
upon earth. Thy saving health among all nations.
Let the people praise Thee, God, yea, let all the
people praise Thee, through Jesus Christ our Saviour,
Amen.

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Family Worship.

FEIDAY EVENING.

191

OLO RD, our heavenly Father, we bow at Thy
footstool to acknowledge Tl^y great mercies,
to confess our sins, and to close the day with acts of
humiliation, thanksgiving, and prayer.

We devoutly thank Thee for the care of Thy
good providence to the present hour. Thou who
numberest the hairs of our head, hast supplied our
wants, and shielded us from the stroke of death,
be pleased, of Thy great kindness, thus to watch
over us for good all the days and nights of our un-
certain pilgrimage here on earth ; and with all Thy
blessings give us a heart to fear and love Thee, and
diligently to live after Thy commandments.

We praise Thee above all for the gift of Thy dear
and only Son, for the grace of the Holy Spirit and
for the ample instruction and precious promises of
Thy glorious gospel. God, who hast given much
unto usj and will justly require much from us, help
us to remember that He who once came into the
world to be our Saviour, will come again to be our
Judge. Help us to put our trust in Him. Give
and increase in us that faith which is of the opera-
tion of God, and by which, through our adorable
Redeemer, the ungodly, who truly repent, are freely
justified. Nourish in us those graces of the Spirit
which are the fruits and evidences of a lively faith,
and endue us with power to mortify our corrupt
affections, to overcome our spiritual adversaries, to

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cast off the works of darkness, and to put on the
armour of light, that when our Lord Jesus Christ
shall appear we also may appear with him in glory.

Forgive the sins we have committed by word, or
thought, or deed. If we have envied the lot of
others, or wickedly repined at our own ; if by negli-
gence, indolence, or wilful disobedience, we have
grieved Thy Holy Spirit ; Lord, pardon Thy ser-
vants. Cleanse our hearts from every affection con-
trary to charity, meekness, and purity. May we
cherish no sinful resentment, buu lay ourselves down
at peace with Thee, and forgiving others as we trust
that Thou for Christ's sake wilt forgive us.

Bless all the ministers of Thy gospel with grace,
wisdom, and understanding. On all the Israel of
God, wherever they dwell, and however they are
named, may mercy and peace rest, from God our
Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. Hasten, we
pray Thee, the universal coming of Thy gracious
kingdom. Thou hast already done marvellous
things ; Thy righteousness Thou hast openly showed
in the sight of the Heathen. Carry on Thine own
work ; and let all the kingdoms of the earth be-
come the kingdoms of the Lord and his Christ.

Defend us during the darkness and dangers of this
night ; and when the shadows of death gather and
settle upon our path, then, gracious Father,
lighten our darkness by Thy presence, and receive
our sanctified spirits to Thine eternal rest, through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen,

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Family Worship,

SATUKDAY MORNING.

19&

ALMIGHTY GOD, the fountain of all goodness,
we humbly beseech Thee to look down on
us at this time, and grant us Thy richest blessing.
In Thy great mercy forgive our sins, in the renew-
ing grace of Thy Holy Spirit restore and sanctify
our souls. Though we have deserved nothing at
Thy hand, yet Thy promise emboldens us to expect
that, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Thou wilt
freely give us all things. fulfil in us Thy gra-
cious word ; do exceeding abundantly for us above
all we ask or think.

Grant us, Lord, we pray Thee, to know our-
selves. Show us where we are weak and inclined
to do evil, that w^e may there be always on our
guard. Let us not, through forge tfulness of our in-
firmity, be surprised by sudden temptations, or
led astray by the deceitful allurements of the world,
or yield to the sin that doth so easily beset us ; but
let us watch and pray, that so the enemy may not
prevail through our weakness, but be vanquished
through Thy strength.

But whilst we see our feebleness, grant, Lord,
that we may not, on the other hand, be unmindful
of the powers with which Thou hast endowed us,
and which Thou requirest us to employ for Thee.
May we remember that Thou boldest us responsible
for their use and improvement, and that Thou wilt
demand an account of our stewardship at last.

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Innnily Worship.

may we clearly see what are the duties for which
Thou hast qualified us, and perform them with all
our hearts. May we feel thankful that we can ac-
complish anything in Thy cause, and conscientiously
ask how we can serve Thee best. Forbid that we
should hide our talent, or use it negligently. May
we dedicate it wholly to Thee, and by diligence and
thoughtfulness in our work find the promise fulfilled,
" To him that hath shall be given, and he shall have
more abundantlj'."

O Lord our God, we thank Thee that Thou hast
brought us to the last day of another week. How
great has been Thy goodness towards us. Thy pro-
mise has not failed us; Thy grace has been suf-
ficient for us ; hitherto Thou hast helped us. We
thank Thee that we can discern Thy providential
care in our safety and well-being, and the work of
Thy Spirit in our desire still to honour and obey
Thee. Thou hast been with us waking and sleep-
ing, at home and abroad, and hast suffered us to
^ant no good thing. Blessed be the Lord, who
daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our
salvation. let us through this day still enjoy Thy
guidance and blessing. Help us ^ successfully to
cmnptete-^ie--wxn:k.a£Jiia^^w^ek^ cast

aside all worldly care, and b e abl« to enter with un-
distracted mind on the duties and privileges of Thy

holy day.

Hear us, Lord, for the sake of Jesus Christ,

Thy Son. Ameii.

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Family Worship,
SATURDAY EVENING.

195

OLORD, by whose care we have been preserv-
ed through another week, we lift up our heart
to Thee. let Thy Holy Spirit now inspire us with
grateful love, as we review Thy goodness towards
us. Thou hast never lost sight of us for a moment.
Thou hast held our soul in life, and suffered not our
foot to be moved. When we have been absorbed in
the duties of our calling, and unaware of the danger
that threatened us, or lost in the oblivion of sleep and
unable to protect ourselves. Thine eye has rested on
us, and Thine hand has defended us. Thou hast not
only encouraged our hearts by Thine exceeding
great and precious promises, but Thou hast fulfilled
those promises in our experience. Thou hast made
all grace to abound to us ; as our day, our strength
has been. how great is Thy goodness which Thou
hast kid up for them that fear Thee, which Thou
hast wrought for them that trust in Thee, before the
sons of men !

And now, Lord, we beseech Thee to prepare us
for the approaching day of rest. Let the agitation
and excitement which arise out of the business of
the week subside, and our minds become tranquil
and self-possessed, ready to give their undisturbed
attention to spiritual things. Help to turn away
our thoughts from worldly pursuits, to cast off all
anxiety and care, and to yield our hearts to the
peace-giving influence of Thy Spirit. May our souls

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be filled with holy desires, and anticipate with joy
the services in which those desires shall be satisfied.
May deep and fervent love to Christ prepare us for
happy and profitable communion with him, and
render to-morrow one of the days of heaven upon
earth.

Lord, we pray that Thy blessing may be with
all the ministers of Thy gospel who are looking for-
ward with anxious minds to their momentous duties.
Prepare them for their work. Grant that they may
joyfully declare what they have themselves felt and
tasted and handled of the good word of life. Fill
their hearts with love to Christ and love to souls.
Impress them with a deep sense of their responsibil-
ity. May they feel their own personal sufiiciency
is of Thee ; yet, trusting in the help of Thy promised
Spirit, may they find that utterance is given them,
and that they open their mouth boldly to make
known the mystery of the gospel. that, by Thy
blessing on their work. Thy people may be comforted
and edified, and many who have been living with-
out Christ be led to Him in humble faith, and find
in Him everlasting life.

And now we commend ourselves and our house-
hold to Thy gracious care. Give us the blessed
sense of Thy presence and Thy love. May our sleep
this night be calm and sweet, and maj^ we awake
with the quiet of the Sabbath alieady in our heart*.
We ask it for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen

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SABBATH MOKNIISG.

197

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, who
hast graciously brought us to the beginning
of this day, pour down Thy Holy Spirit into our
hearts, that we may spend it in Thy fear, and to
Thy glory.

We bless and praise Thy holy name for Thy mer-
ciful preservation of us during the night, and for
Thy great goodness in allowing us to see another
Sabbath-day. May it prove to efich of us a season
of holy rest and refreshing. Be v^ith us in Thy
house of prayer : give us the hearing ear, the under-
standing mild, and the believing heart. May it be
our desire to hear what God the Lord shall say to
us. May we receive the word preached, not as the
word of man, but as the word of God ; and may it
work effectually in us, as in all who believe. O let
us not be forgetful hearers, but doers of Thy word ;
remembering that we hear for eternity, and ever
bearing in mind that we must one day give an ac-
count of the use of all our privileges at the judg-
ment-seat of Christ.

We confess that we have not profited by them as
we should have done ; we have not increased in
holiness in proportion to our many mercies. Thou
mightest justly have cut us down as cumberers of
the ground. for the sake of Thy dear Son, Jesus

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Family Worship.

Christ, forgive us all tb.at is past, and grant us grace
so to improve this Sabbath, that it may increase our
meetness for that eternal rest which remains for the
people of God.

Bless all Thy faithful ministers. May they deter-
mine to know nothing among their flocks save Jesus
Christ, and Him crucified. Enable them rightly to
divide the word of truth, giving to every one his
portion in due season. Give Thme abundant bless-
ing to all Sabbath schools ; and may every means
employed for the conversion of sinners, and the ex-
tension of Thy kingdom, be abundantly blessed.

We earnestly implore Thy blessing upon all who
may be prevented by sickness, or any other lawful
impediment, from attending Thy house of prayer.
Lord, sanctify and bless them ; supply all their need
out of Thy riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Let not
their hearts be troubled by Thy dealings with them ;
but multiply upon them Thy mercies, that as their
trials abound, so their consolations may also abound.

And finally, we entreat Thee to have mercy upon
those who have no mercy on themselves, but live in
forgetfulness of Thee, and in neglect of Thy house
of prayer. Grant them to know, before it is too late,
the things that belong to their everlasting peace; turn
their hearts unto Thee; and draw them to Thyself
here, that they may live with Thee for ever.

Hear and answer us, God, in the multitude of
Thy mercies, for the sake of our Lord and Saviour,
Jesus Christ. Amen.

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199

SABBATH EVENING.

O ETERNAL and ever-blessed God, our gracious
and merciful Father, Thou hast mercifully set
apart this sacred day for the rest and refreshment of
our souls. How amiable are Thy tabernacles, Lord
of Hosts ! Truly a day in Thy courts is better than
a thousand. We would come before Thee this even-
ing with the voice of praise and thanksgiving, for
Thou hast caused us to approach unto Thee, and hast
refreshed us with the goodness of Thy house, even of
Thy holy temple.

Grant, we beseech Thee, that this day's engage-
ments may be the means of preparing our souls for
the nobler, the never-ending services of Thy glorious
temple above. Impress, Lord, upon our minds the
truths to which we have listened. May Thy word
be hid in our hearts, that we may not forget Thee,
that we may not sin against Thee, that we may be
sanctified, guided, saved by its influence, through
faith which is Christ Jesus.

We lament the wandering of our thoughts in Thy
service, the coldness of our affections, the weakness
of our faith. Our best attempts to serve Thee,
Lord, fill us with shame and confusion of face. Par-
don the iniquity of our holy things, and heal our
infirmities. May our poor and imperfect services be
accepted by Thee. O for that day when we hope to
serve Thee i)erfectly, when our services shall be free
from sin. Grant, we beseech Thee, O God, that the

200

Family Worship,

word of Thy ^aco may have free course and be glori-
fied. May multitudes in this and in other lands be
brought by it in humiliation and repentance to the
Saviour's feet, and find in Him wisdom and right-
eousness and sanctification and redemption.

Suffer none of the faithful ministers of Thy gos-
pel to labour in vain and to spend their strength for
nought. Abundantly water the seed which they
have sown with the dew of Thy blessing. Cause it
to take root in many hearts, and may it bring forth
fruit unto life eternal.

Prepare us, Lord, for the engagements of the
morrow. May our profiting by Thy ordinances ap-
pear more and more. May we think, speak, and act
during the ensuing v^eek under the consciousness of
Thine observing eye ; exercising ftiith in Thy pro-
mises, obeying Thy will, and ever trusting in Thy
grace and providence.

To Thy safe keeping we commend ourselves this
night. May we lie down in peace, and sleep, con-
fiding in Thee, Lord, who alone canst make us to
dwell in safety.

Hear us, most gracious Father, for we ask in the
Redeemer's name, to whom with Thee and the Holy
Ghost be all honour and glory, world without end.
Amen.

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Familif Worship.

MONDAY MORNING.

t>()l

ALMIGHTY LORD our God, wlio^c eyes are
in every place beholding the evil and the
good, and who seest not only our outward action:^,
but all our most secret thoughts, we pray Thee to
maintain in us this day a constant sense of Tliy
presence, and to preserve us from sinning against
Thee. We are exposed to dangers by night and by
day; our lives are in Thy hands, and unto Thee do
we look for preservation from every evil. Lord,
teach us to be ever mindful of Thee, When we go
out and come in, when we are alone and in company,
may we bear in mind that Thou art continually with
us, and that Thou takes t account of all we think,
and speak, and do.

We draw near unto Thee, trusting in the name
of Jesus Christ, and not in our own righteousness;
and \/e also beseech Thee, for His sake, to strengthen
our weakness, and to enable us this day to fulfil
every duty to which we are called. May we be
kind and affectionate one to another; sincere and
upright in all our dealings, and diligent in our pro-
per work. May we rejoice in every opportunity of
doing good ; and may we have grace to deny our-
selves, that we may the more abundantly minister
to the wants of others. Put into us a spirit of com-
passion for the poor, as well as of thankfulness to
Thee, who hast made us to differ. Teach us to for-
give those who have injured us ; since we ourselves

202

Family Worship,

have 80 many sins for which wo hopo to l)o forgiven.
Produce in us, O Lord, wo beseech Tliee, every
Christian grace. Make us instruments in Thy hand
for the good of many ; and while we are serving our
generation, may we be abundantly blessed in our
own souls, and rejoice in the sense both of Thy
pardoning mercy and of Thy constant and special
protection.

Wo pray Thee, Lord, to U)ok d(jwn in compas-
sion on all our dear friends and relations. Bestow
upon them all things which Thou knowest to bo
needful for them. Sustain and comfort thcni in this
life ; but especially vouchsafe unto them the bless-
ings of the life to come.

Have mercy on the young. Grant that they may
be trained up in the nurture and admonition of tho
Lord, and may thus learn to do Thy will and to
walk in Thy fear all ci^o days of their lives, and to
hand down Thy truth to the latest posterity.

We offer up these our humble supplications in the
name and through the mediation of our Lord and
Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen,

' I

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Family Worship.

MONDAY EVENING.

203

OLORD GOD, our Heavenly Father, whose mer-
cies are over all Thy works, and who hast
01.1 this day supplied our returning wants, we ren-
der thanks to Thee for all the bounties of Thy
providence ; and we desire now to lie down under
a deep sense both of our own unworthiness and of
Thine unspeakable goodness.

We adore Thee, especially, for the gift of Jesus
Christ, Thy Gon; through whom we hope for the
pardon of our rins, and the gift of everlasting life.
We are all sinners in Thy sight, and are exposed to
Thy just condemnation ; but, though our offences
have abounded, yet Thy grace hath still more
abounded through Jesus Christ.

We desire to confess and lament the sins of the
day which is now past. Forgive, Lord, all our
negligences, as well as our more manifest offences.
Forgive all our evil thoughts, and words, and works.
We would lament every mis-spent hour, and every
neglected opportunity of doing good. We lament
our want of love to Thee our God, and our want
of zeal in Thy service. We lament also the great
imperfection of charity towards those around us.
Thou hast commanded us to love our neighbours as
ourselves ; but we are continually seeking our own
interest, indulging our own ease, and consulting our
own humour. Help us, we pray Thee, to follow the
example of our blessed Saviour, who pleased not

204

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Himself, but went about doing good ; and hath com-
manded us continually to deny ourselves, and take
up our cross and follow Him.

We beseech Thee to bless unto us the events of
this day. We would remember that all things are
directed by Thine unerring wisdom and that they
shall work together for good to them who love Thee.
May any trial which we may this day have experi-
enced, teach us more and more to know ourselves —
may every sorrow wean us from this present world —
and may every enjoyment be the means of exciting
our gratitude to Thee, the author of all good. May
the afflictions of others call forth our Christian sym-
pathy, and render us abundant in the exercise of our
benevolence.

We pray for Thy blessing on all our friends and
relations. Guard them from evil by night and by
day, and especially from whatsoever may hurt their
souls. Establish them in Thy true faith, and make
them fruitful in good works. Bestow Thy special
blessing on the rising generation.

Bless our rulers and country. Give grace to all
ministers of Thy gospel. Have pity on the poor and
the afflicted ; and make it the daily business of all
our lives to minister to the sorrows and wants of
others, and to abound in every good work.

We present these our humble and imperfect sup-
plications in the name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus
Christ. Amen,

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Family Worship.

TUESDxW MORNING.

205

("\ THOU who makest the outgoings of the
y morning and of the evening to rejoice, assist
us, we beseech Thee, to offer unto Theo a morning
sacrifice of praise and prayer. Thou art the pre-
server of our life and the fountain of all our bless-
ings and enjoyments. In Thee we live and move
and have our being ; and from Thy unmerited fav-
our and infinite goodness we daily receive all that
is necessary for life and godliness. Our voice shalt
Thou hear in the morning, Lord ; in the morning
will we direct our prayer to thee and look up. We
both laid us down in peace and slept, for Thou, Lord,
hast made us to dwell in safety. We unfeignedly
thank Thee that we have not slept the sleep of
death, and that no grievous calamity has befallen
us. Thou hast crowned us with loving-kindness
and tender mercy, and now we desire to come before
Thee, our God and our Heavenly Father, and to
acknowledge thine unceasing love. Bless th? Lord,
our souls, and all that is within us bless his holy
name.

God, we acknowledge and confess our manifold
transgressions and offences. We are guilty in Thy
sight, and are exposed to Thy righteous displeasure.
Thy law is holy, and just, and good, but we have
broken it times without number; and instead of
submitting ourselves to Thy authority and will, we
have done that which was right in our own eyes.

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Family Worship,

Hst

ire-
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alt

Our hearts are deceitful above all things, and despe-
rately wicked ; and hadst Thou not restrained us
we should have wrought all manner of iniquity with
greediness. In us there dwelleth no good thing.
To whom should we flee for succour but unto Thee,
Lord ? Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on
us. For the sake of Thy beloved Son, forgive us all
that is past.

Bless, we beseech Thee, all the members of this
family. May Thy grace and peace be our constant
joy. Guide us all by Thy counsel, protect us by Thy
power, and bring us into glory. Assist us in the
discharge of every duty. Make our eye single, that
our whole body may be full of light. Draw our
affections towards the things that are above, where
Christ sitteth at Thy right hand ; that when he shall
appear we also may appear with him in glory.

Bless all our relatives and friends ; and if we have
any enemies, persecutors, or slanderers, may it please
Thee to forgive them, and to turn their hearts.
Bless all whom Thou hast sent forth to be ambassadors
for Christ; thrt Thy word, ministered by them with
great fidelity, may have free course and be glorified.
We commend to Thy fatherly goodness all that are
in adversity and trial. Help all that are afflicted to
put their trust in Thee, and be thou their refuge and
their strength, a very present help in time of trouble.

Hear our prayers, Lord God of our salvation, for
the sake of Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Advocate.
ATfien.

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207

, "'

TUESDAY EVENING.

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, gra-
ciously accept our humble and hearty thanks
for all the blessings of the past day, By Thy good
providence we have not only been preserved from
death, but such things have been bestowed upon us
as Thou, in Thy wisdom and love, seest to be the
best. We adore Thee for condescending to be our
guide. Thou appointest our inheritance. Thou who
didst lead Thy chosen people by a pillar of cloud by
day, and of fire by night, dost lead even us, unwoi
thy as we are. O give us grace that we may con-
stantly follow Thee and cheerfully submit to all the
dispensations of Thy providence ; and remember-
ing that Thy way and Thy work are perfect,
may we place ourselves at Thy disposal. Accept
also our most hearty thanks foi' the blessings of Thy
grace ; for Thy patience and forbearance ; for Thy
holy word, which is a light unto our feet and a lamp
for our path ; for the gift of Thy well-beloved Son,
and for His atonement and constant intercession ;
for the enlightening, comforting and sanctifying
influences of Thy Holy Spirit; for the means of
grace and for the hope of glory. What shall we
render to Thee for all Thy benefits 1 We will take
the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the
Lord. We will of^er unto Thee the sacrifices of thanks-
giving and of praise. Thou art the Father of mercies,
the God of consolation. Thou givest us all things

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Family Worship,

richly to enjoy. We have nothing but what we have
received from Thy bountiful goodness. God,
with all Thy benefits, {^ive us the blessing of a
thankful heart. Give us a due sense of all Thy
mercies, that so we may bless Thee every day in this
life, and sing praises to Thy name for ever and ever
in the life to come.

We have sinne i against Thee ; with shame and
confusion of face we confess it ; but we have an
Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the right-
e'^'USjand He is the propitiation for our sins. Thou
who art merciful and gracious, slow to anger and of
great compassion, blot out our transgressions, and
remember our sins no more. 0, in mercy lift up the
light of Thy countenance upon us, and help us to love
Thee because Thou hast first loved us. Create in
us a clean heart, C^ God, and renew a right spirit
within us. Write Thy law in our heart.

And now, most merciful God, we besetch Thee to
look upon us who kneel before Thy mercy-seat. Thou
hast supplied our wants during the day, preserve us
from all danger in the night. Favour us with re-
freshing sleep. When we awake, breathe holy and
heavenly thoughts into our hearts. And thus pre-
served until the morning, may we arise, strengthened
in body rnd soul, to walk in that path in which it
may please Thee to direct us. Grant us these mer-
cies for the sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.

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Family Worship.

WEDNESDAY MORNING.

209

OLORD, Thou God of our salvation ! Thou art
the hope of all the ends of the earth ; upon
Thee the eyes of all do wait ; for Thou givest unto
all life, and breath, and all things. In Thee we ever
live, and move, and are ; and upon Thee we conti-
nually depend for all the good that we either have,
or hope for. Still Thou watchest over us for good
and takest care of us in our sleep, when we are in-
capable of caring for ourselves : daily Thou re-
newest to us Thy tender mercies ; every morning
affords us fresh occasions for praise and thanksgiv-
ing Thou hast assured us by Thy word, that if
we commit our affairs to Thee, Thou wilt establish
our thoughts, and direct our paths. We desire, there-
fore, Lord, still to put ourselves undei Thy gra-
cious conduct and Thy fatherly protection ; and we
beg the guidance, and blessing, and assistance of Thy
good Spirit, to choose our inheritance for us ; and to
dispose of us and of all that concerns us, to the glo ry
of Thy name.

O Lord, withdraw not Thy tender mercies from
us ; take not away the comforts of Thy presence, or
the assistance of Thy Spirit, on account of our
manifold abuses of Thy giace and goodness. Grant
us, O God, the comfortable sense of Thine acceptance
of us in ^he Son of Thy love, that our souls may
bless Thee, and all that is within us may praise Thy
holy name.

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Family Worship.

And O that we may find the joy of the Lord to be
our strength ; that we may be strengthened by it
against all our sins ; especially the sins to which we
are most addicted, and whereof we are most in dan-
ger. Make us also more ready to every good work,
and better disposed for all the duties which we owe
to Thee, our neighbour, and ourselves ; that herein
we may exercise ourselves, to have always a con-
science void of offence towards God and towards
men.

Help us to walk circumspectly, not as fools, but
as wise ; conscientiously improving all those seasons of
grace which Thou art pleased to put into our hands.
While we are upon earth give us all things needful
and convenient for our present pilgrimage ; sanctify
to us all our enjoyments, and all our occupations in
the world ; let our crosses also, and our comforts,
and all events that now befal us, be improved to
Thy glory ; till, through the merits of Thy Son, and
the multitude of Thy mercies, we are conducted safely
to be ever with the Lord.

gracious Father ! keep us, we beseech Thee, this
day inThy fear and favour ; and help us to live to Thy
honour and gloiy. let Thy good providence be
our defence and security ; and let Thy Holy Spirit
be our guide and counsellor in all our ways.

Let Thy grace, Lord Jesus Christ ; Thy love,
heavenly Father; Thy comfortable fellowship,
holy blessed Spirit, be with us, and with all the
Israel of God, this day and for evermore. Amen.

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Family Worship,

211

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WEDNESDAY EVENING.

OUR ever blessed and most gracious God I Thou
art the Lord and giver of our lives, and of all
the blessings we enjoy. To Thee wo owe ourselves, and
all that we are capable of rendering unto Thee. For
by Thee, Lord, we were created ; and through Thy
good Providence it is that we have been spared and
provided for unto this present time. From Thee,
our God, comes all our help ; and in Thee is reposed
all our hope. Thou art the l)ountiful giver of all the
good that our souls desire, and the merciful with-
holder uf all the evil that our sins deserve. We ac-
knowledge Thy great and daily goodness to us, and
our own exceeding unworthiness of the least of all
Thy mercies. We take shame and confusion to our-
selves that we have so little improved, and so greatly
abused all Thy patience with us, and all the various
instances of Thy bounty to us. We confess it to be
a heinous aggravation of our offences, that we have
done so much against Thee, after all the great things
Thou hast done for us. But we desire, Lord, to be
humbled for our offences ; and we entreat Thy gra-
cious favour, in Christ Jesus, for the pardon of them.
Forgive us, we pray Thee, for His sake, all the sins
that ever we have committed against Thee, and ab-
solve us from all the evil whereof we now stand
guilty before Thee. Being justified by faith, let us
have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus
Christ.

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Family Worship.

And as we pray that Thou wilt be to us a Father
of mercies and a God of consolation ; so we pray
that Thou wilt make us followers of God, as dear
children ; ever jealous over our hearts, and watchful
over our ways ; continually fearing to offend, and en-
deavouring to please Thee ; and enable us to keep
our hearts with all diligence, that they may never be
hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

Teach us, our God, to know the day of gi'ace,
And the time of our visitation, and to see the things
of our peace before they be hid from our ej^es. And
while we have time, enable us to use and improve
it to those great ends for which Thou art pleased to
continue it to us. And seeing Thou art pleased yet
to hold our souls in life, and to make us find and feel,
by every day's experience, how abundantly gracious
and merciful Thou art, give us hearts more sensi-
ble of Thy love, and more thankful for those favours
which Thou art pleased to multiply unto us.

And now, most merciful Father, we humbly recom-
mend ourselves, and all that we have, to Thy care
and protection ; beseeching Thee, for Thy dear Son's
sake, to preserve and defend, to bless and keep us,
both in soul and body. O be with us through the
night season, and grant us comfortable repose ; that
our frail nature being refreshed, and our decayed
strength renewed, we may rise again better fitted for
the duties of another day.

Accept these our prayers, most gracious God, for
Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

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Family fVorship.

THURSDAY MORNING.

21:]

OLORD GOD ALMIGHTY, holy and just art
Thou, and none can question Thy doings, in
heaven above, or in the earth beneath. Thou art the
Judge of all the earth, and doest right in all things.
To Thee every knee must bow and every tongue
confess. But when Thou comest in judgment, who
can abide in Thy presence, or answer Thee for one
of a thousand of his transgressions ?

We feel that we have all sinned, and come short
of the glory of God, and are not worthy to be called
Thy children. By the deeds of the law we feel that
we cannot be justified in Thy sight ; that we cannot
atone for our transgressions. But, O Lord, we rejoice
that Thou hast not left us in this guilty and helpless
condition, without hope of recovery, but Thou hast
set forth Jesus to be a propitiation for our sins, through
faith in His blood, that Thou mightest be just and
thejustifier of all them that believe in Him.
Lord, may this provision of mercy be realized in us.
May his sufferings be, in very deed, a propitiation
for the sins of every one of us. As He was made sm
for us, though He knew no sin, may we be made the
righteousness of God in Him.

The more of the grace of faith Thou givest us, so
much the more may we feel ourselves urged on to serve
and glorify Thee. Relying on the finished work of
the Son, may we wax stronger in the Christian life ;
labouring more and more abundantly as we draw

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nearerto the recompense of re w<'ir J which Thou, our
gracious Provider, hast laid up for the redeemed.

In this frame of mind, Lord, enable us this day
to perform every duty to Thee, to one another, and
to our own souls. Do Thou watch over and pros[)er
all our interests ; and the work of our hands, estab-
lish Thou it. May Thy protecting arm be about us,
and all that concerns us, throughout its passing
hours, and all the period of our pilgrimage on earth.

But, Lord, we are not the only objects of Thy
watchful providence. Thou openest Thine hand, and
suppliest the wants of all that dwell in this world.
Thou art the God of the Jews, and of the Gentiles,
and of all who call upon Thee. may they call
upon Thee in the true and living way Thou hast set
before them. As the brightness of the early dew on
the tender grass, so may the light of Thy truth be
spread over every land, and make the whole earth
joyous with Thy salvation.

May our native land, this Dom.Inion, and all parts
of the British Empire, be specially blessed. Bless
the Queen and all the royal family. As Thou hast
raised them high in rank, may they have the still
higher rank of sons and daughters of God. Bless all
travellers by sea and land ; a^l the numerous family
of sickness and suffering ; and all drawing near to
death and judgment. Bless all others whom we
should remember before Thee with every blessing
suited to their cases ; and all that we ask is in the
name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Familp Worship.

THURSDAY EVENING.

216

OLORD our God, Thou art lovo ; and Thou
didst so lovo the world as to give Thino only
begotten and dearly beloved Son, that whosoevei
believeth in Him might not perish, but have ever-
lasting life. Thou hast commended Thy love to-
wards us, in that Christ died for us while we were yet
sinners, even when we were dead in trespasses and
sins.

O Lord, what can we render unto Thee for love so
undeserved, love so unutterable, love whose height
and depth and length and breadth pass all under-
standing? We have nothing but what we have
received from Thee, but that we willingly and grate-
fully give back to Thee. We give ourselves — we
give our all, as a thank-offering to Thee.

Lord, may we have, in this love, a well-grounded
assurance that we are justified by Christ's blood, and
that we shall be saved from wrath through Him ;
that we have been reconciled to God by His death
and shall be saved by TTis life, seeing He ever liveth
to make intercession for us. Give us true faith to
lay hold on these exceeding great and precious pro-
visions of Thy love, and to rejoice in the hope thus
set before us, of the glory that shall be revealed.
Whatever trials and troubles, temptations and afflic-
tions beset our path, let us never be cast down and
discouraged, but enable us to bring everything that
grieves us to Thee, knowing that Thou art ever ready

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to hear and to help ua. When all tliingH soem to bo
against ua, then do Thou, wise and uncTriiigRulor
of events, make all things work together for our
good, both for time and for eternity.

Wo [)ray fo. those whose lot Thou hast cast in
with ours in the domestic relations of life ; and those,
whether present or absent, whom Thou hast bound
to us by tbe ties of nature and grace. We pray for
those around us, with whom we have to do in the
daily intercourse of life. We pray for the public and
private welfare of the community whereof we form
a part. Let the church that has nourished and
brought us up, and has fed us with Thy word, with
the bread of life, be blessed. Lord, lengthen the
cords and strengthen the stakes of Thy tabernacle,
and spread the covering thereof over many that have
not yet come to worship therein.

O Lord, prepare us to give ourselves up in faith,
hope, peace, and joy, to Thy watchful and kind pro-
vidence, during the darkness of the night which has
now closed in around us. We desire to resign our-
selves, and everything that concerns us, into Thy
gracious hands. May we sleep in Jesus ; and whether
we awake here or elsewhere, may we still be found
in him. Our Father, &c.

H'i

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217

FRIDAY MORNING.

OLORD, our strength and our Redeemer, how
excellent is Thy great name ! Thou hast set
Tuy glory above the heavens ; the heavens declare
Thy glory, and the firmament showeth forth Thy
handy- work. In them hast Thou set a tabernacle for
the sun, that cometh out of its chamber in the east,
in all the splendour of rising brightness, and holds
on itg ourse with rejoicing; shining more and more
unto the perfect day, and dispensing light, heat and
gladness whithersoever his circuit extends. Day
unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night
showeth knowledge of Thee. The invisible things of
Thee, from the creation of the world, are thus clearly
seen, being understood by the things that are made,
even Thine eternal power and Godhead. Thou hast
also given us Thy law — line upon line, precept upon
precept — to enable us to see these things still more
clearly, and to know Thy will more surely.

Having so many means of enlightenment given
us, we know that we are without excuse if we still
abide in darkness. But Lord, we have preferred
darkness to light, and have not marked the wonders
of Thy working as we ought to have done : nor hav^
we searched Thy word with sufHcient diligence and
eameatness. We have, hence, fallen into many
errors, and committed many sin.s from which we
might otherwise have been free. Having sinned
against the light of nn.ture and the light of grace,

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Family Worship.

\ve feel that our own guilt is the greater. O Lord,
we confess our sins, and beseech Thee, for Christ's
sake, to forgive us. look not on us as we have
sinned. Have mercy on us, and blot out all oui
transgressions. Destroy tho pov/er of the sins
that most easily beset us. Enable as to break their
bonds. Let thy testimonies be sure unto us, making
us wise unto salv^iion. May they be dearer bo us
than gold, yea, than much fine gold; and sweeter
also than honey and the honeycomb. Guide our
steps, and let our thoughts and conversation be
heavenly, and all the labour of our hands useful and
right. Tiftt the words of our mouth and the
meditations of our hearts be acceptable in thy sight,
O Lord, our strength and our Redeemer.

Bless all whom we should remember at Thy
Throne. Let our friends be Thy friends, and be
Thou to them a friend that sticketh closer than a
brother. May Thy people be willing in the day ot
Thy power, and may many be gathered to them that
are yet aliens to the commonwealth of Israel, May
Jews and Gentiles, bond and free, and every nation
and tongue be brought to Thee, and know Thee,
whom to know is life eternal. Let all everywhere
turn to Thee and live.

Bless all ranks and classes, whether poor or rich,
high or low, old or young, in health or in sickness,
or near the end of their days. Let Thy word and
work grow everywhere, that all eyes may see Thy
glory. And all we ask is for Ch list's sake. Ainen*

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Family Worship,

FRIDAY EVENING.

211)

OLORD our God, poor and needy as we are,
we come to Thee to spread out our wants
and wishes before Thee. To whom can we go but
unto Thee, who hast the words of eternal life ? Thou
art the hearor of prayer, the forgiver of iniquity; the
giver of every good and perfect gift ; in whom we
all live and move and have our being. Whom have
we in heaven but Thee ? and who is there on earth
whom we desire besides Thee ? Heaven would be
no place of bliss without Thee ; and without Thee
there were none on earth that could do us good.

O Lord, we feel that it is good for us again to
draw near to Thee, to God our exceeding joy.
enable us to do so with all the earnestness and
longing of Thy servant of old, when he said, " As the
hart panteth after the water-brooks, so panteth my
soul after Thee, God." Let us not be cold and
languid and formal, but stir up Thy gift in our
hearts, and make us fervent in spirit, serving the
Lord, with all our heart and soul and mind and
strength, not as vain things, but as our life.

O may Thy blessed Spirit dwell richly in our
hearts, and work all righteousness within us — filling
us with faith, hope, meekness, humbleness of mind,
and aU godliness and charity ; so that these, and the
other graces of the Gospel, being in us, we may not
be found wanting in the day of Thy power. Amidst
all the temptations to sin around us, may we be kept

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Family Worship,

unspotted by the world, not walking in the counsel
of the ungodly, nor standing in the way of sinners,
nor sitting in the seat of the scornful, but making
Thy law our delight, and meditating upon it day
and ixight.

As thou hast brought us through the various
events and scenes of the past day in safety and in
peace, do Thou also bring us through the hours
of this night without danger or distress, and if it be
Thy will to prolong our existence here, may we
awake with renewed vigour to return to our respec-
tive duties of life. But whether we live may we
live unto the Lord, or whether we die may we die
unto the Lord ; so that whether we live or die, by
night or day, we may be Thine.

May this be the blessed lot of all whom we should
bear upon our minds at this time. Let none go
mourning because of the oppressor and the ungodly.
Give food to the hungry, and clothing to the
naked, and dwelling to the homeless, and help to the
friendless ; give health to the sick, relief to the
distressed, comfort to the sad in heart, and preparation
to the dying.

Bless our Sovereign the Queen, and all her family;
bless those that rule under her for the public good.
Bless all ranks of society, and let all the people
receive Thy law, and rejoice in Thee as the God of
their life, and the object of their praise and desire.
And to Father Son and Holy Ghost, one God, be
glory for ever. Amtn.

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Family Wcrship.

221

SATCTEDAY MORNING.

OLORD, we again desire to draw near to Thee
as the God of our salvation. Blessed is
that people whose God is the Lord. Thy Messing
is upon them every day, for tlie Lord hath set apart
him that is godly for himself Lord, we have
cried to Thee to whom salvation belongeth, and
Thou hast heard us out of Thy holy hill, and hast
made us dwell in safety. We laid us down and
slept, and we have awaked in health and peace ; for
the Lord sustained us. Day by day hast Thou led
us by Thy right hand ; and night by night have we
rested in Thee, as travellers under the shadow of a
great rock, in a weary laud.

O Lord, strengthen us in our weakness, that we
may put our trust in Thee, and not fear, whatever
trials may come upon us. May we fear Thee, and
have no other fear. May we stand in awe of Thee,
and sin not, and commune with our hearts, and be
still, and know that Thou art God, and our God.
May we serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with
trembling.

Our help is in God, in whose hands are the issues
of life and all things. Lord, lift on us the light of
Thy countenance. Let all our sins pass away from
before Thee as a thick cloud, and show us what is
good. O bring us to see that we have obtained the
blessedness of those whose iniquities are blotted out,
whose sins are covered.

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Family Worship.

Lord, direct our steps this day, in the true and
living Wcay. Let us not turn aside to the by-ways
of sin and error. Let us not walk in the counsel of
the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit
in the seat of the scornful , Lt*;; may the law of the
Lord be our delight. May all that trust in Thee
be as trees planted by the rivers of water, and bring-
ing forth fruit in their season. May their leaf never
wither, and whatsoever they do, being i-ight in Thy
sight, may it prosper and abound to Thy praise.

make the way of life and immortality to be
known to all who sit in the region and shadow of
death- -in the lands and isles that are far off. Give
the king whom Thou hast set upon Zion, Thy holy
hill, the heathen for his inheritance, and the utter-
most parts of the earth for a possession. Remember
the \V)Ov and needy, the widow, the fatherless, the
orphan and the friendless, wherever their lot is cast,
and be near to them to bless them. Hear the sighs
of the oppressed, and the prisoner in his solitary cell,
and give to all the liberty wherewith Christ makes
his people free.

May light, liberty, and the love of Thee and of
Thy will, reign in our beloved country. Bless her
Majesty the Queen and all the royal family. Bless
all in authority under our Sovereign and over us.
Bless all over whom authority is exercised. May
they lead peaceable lives, in all godliness and honesty.
Bless all for whom we should pra}'. Bless us for
evermore, for Christ's sake. Amen,

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Family Worship.

SATUEDAY EVENING.

223

OLORD, we bless Thee for having brought us
to the close of another day and another week,
and for all the goodness which we have received at
Thy hand every day and every night, and QWQvy
moment oi our past life. Again we desire to stir up
our souls and all that is within us to magnify and
adore Thee. Accept of our thanksgivings, Father
of mercies, and make our love and gratitude still
more fervent.

At the close of this portion of passing time, enable
us to meditate on the end of all time, when we shall
be gathered before Thee, at Thy judgment-seat, to
give an account of ourselves and of what Thou hast
committed to our trust, and to have our lot assigned
to us throughout eternity. We feel that every hour
is bringing us nearer to that most solemn and mo-
mentous of events, and we desire more and more to
be ready for it when it comes.

may the blessed Spirit keep us ever mindful of
the awful circumstances connected with that great
day — the voice of the archangel, and the sound of
the last trumpet — the earth all enwrapt in fames,
the elements melting with fervent heat, and the
heavens folded up as a sci*oll, and passing away with
a great noise — the earth and the sea giving u[) their
dead, in myriads upon myriads, that have slumbered
there for thousands of years — the wicked shrinking
from the look of their Judge witli treuililing and

224

Family Worship.

horror, and calling on the mountains and rocks to
fall on them, and hide them for ever from his face ;
and the righteous drawing near with joy and
triumph, because the day of the redeemed has come.
May we think of the Son of Man, to whom all judg-
ment is committed. May we also think of the
sentences which he will then pronounce on the
righteous, " Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit
the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation
of the world;" and on the wicked, "Depart from
u.e, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for
the Devil and his angels."

O Lord, enable us by Thy grace to guard against
the ways of the wicked that lead to this terrible end,
and to walk in tlie daily exercise of the godly and
benevolent affections by which the righteous are thus
guided on to the realizing of so glorious a reward.
pardon our coldness, and indolence, and unfaith-
fulness, and sinfulness of every kind, in times past,
and stir us up to greater fervour, and diligence, and
faithfulness, in time to come. May we trust in Thee
the Lord, and do good every moment, being thoroughly
furnished unto good works — walking by faith and
not by sight— doing good to all, as we have oppor-
tunity—bringing forth much fruit, and keeping
death and judgment constantly in view.

Bless all of us here before Thee. Refresh our souls
and bodies, and fit us for another day of the Son of
Man here; and fit us, above all, for death, judgment
and eternity, for Christ's sake. Amen.

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PRAYERS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS.

COMMUNION SABBATH

MORNING.

OUR Hecavenl}' Father, Thou hast appointed
this holy day for Tliine own service ; may
Thy Holy Spirit enable us to lay aside all woi Idly
thoughts and cares, and without coldness and dis-
traction to wait upon Thee all the day in a spirituctl
and heavenly mind, and with all holy and fervent
aftections.

As we are this day called to celebrate the memo-
rial of the Redeemer s death, we beseech Thee to
look with Thy special grace upon those of us who
hope to go to His holy table. 0, heavenly Father,
we bless Thee that Thou hast indeed commended
Thy love to us, in sending Thy Son to be the pro-
pitiation for our sins, that we might live through
Him. In not sparing Him, we thank Thee that
Thou hast assured us that thou wilt freely give us
all things. Enable us by this love to discern our
sinfulness and perverseness, and our vile ingratitude
and ba^^e returns to Thee ; and in the spirit of deep
contrition and true repentance, as well as in the
spirit of filial confidence and holy love, to go to this

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Family Worship.

boly communion. We beseech Thee to enable us to
discern by faith the Lord's body, given and broken
for us. and His blood shed for us. Give us to dis-
cern Christ as the bread that came down from hea-
ven, which gives life to the world. O, Lord Jesus,
we come to Thee for this bread, that we may never
hunger ; and would believe on Thee, that we may
never thirst. 0, heavenly Father, let Christ crucified
be set forth among us evidently as before our eyes,
manifesting Himself to our souls in the breaking of
bread, so that we may have a lively, quickening, soul-
affecting and reviving view of His death for us, and
true fellowship with His sufferings. Give us to
know the power of His resurrection, and by faith let
us behold our risen Saviour appearing in heaven, in
Thy presence, for us, as the Lamb siain in the midst
of the throne, and as the true High Priest of His
people, ever living to make intercession for us. Give
us, by the Lord's Supper, to gain full assurance of
His return in Thy glory, seeing that as often as we
eat this bread and drink this cup, we do show forth
the Lord's death till He come.

We pray for a blessing on the ministers appointed
over us and all Thy people, and on all the congrega-
tions that gather together in Thy name. Let great
grace be upon them all ; and may the Lord Jesus be
magnified this day in the conversion and edification
of a countless multitude, who shall be His in the day
when He makes up His jewels. Hear and forgive
us, for His name's sake. Amen.

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Family Worship.

227

COMMUNION SABBATH.

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EVENING.

OLORD, what shall we render to Thee for all
Thy mercies ? We would praise Thee for
ever, and shew forth Thy mighty acts to the chil-
dren of men ; for Thou hast dealt very bountifully
with us.

We were brought low under our transgressions ;
the sorrows of death encompassed us ; and we had
no hope in ourselves. But glory be to Thee; for
Thou hast delivered our souls from death, our eyes
from tears, and our feet from falling. Thanks be to
Thee, who givest us the victory through our Lord
Jesus Christ. Because our eyes have seen Thy sal-
vation, we desire to praise and honour Thee in every
future act of our lives, and to devote to Thee all the
affections of our hearts. May our conversation
henceforth be in heaven, and all our conduct be such
as become th the children of so many mercies.

Allow not the glad tidings of salvation delivered
to us in Thy house and at Thy table to slip out of
our minds, or the good impressions there made upon
us to be worn aw^y by the influences of a world lying
in wickedness ; but may we always bear about with
us the dying of the Lord Jesus, that His life also
may be made manifest in us, that when he appears
the second time we may be like Him and see Him
as He is.

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Family Worsliip,

Having boon with Christ on tho Mount of Ordi-
nances, and having there seen somo rays of tho glory
that excelleth, may the pleasant contemplations wo
enjoyed be ever present with us, and preserve us
from everything inconsistent with such oxaltod
views. May we never again give ourselves over to
the vain pursuits and foUies of the life that now is,
bui keep our eyes and feet continually directed to-
wards the kingdom that is above.

Enable us by Thy Holy Spirit to be helpers to
many others in their pilgrimage through this world.
Help us to warn the unruly, to comfort the feeble-
minded, to support the weak, and to do good to all
as we have opportunity. May the same mind be
in us that was in Christ, who went about continually
ministering to the wants of men, and labouring in
life and doctrine to bring the sinful back to Thee.

Forgive, we beseech Thee, and counteract the evil
which we have so frequently done to the souls of
others and Thy holy cause by our sinful conversation
and conduct. Forgive also the secret wanderings of
our minds from Thee, and the thoughts and desires
of iniquity which have so often arisen within us,
even when engaged in Thy worship. And pardon
the sins of all who have approached Thee at the
communion feast without having prepared their
hearts according to Thy will. O lay not this sin to
their charge, but cover their iniquities and keep
them from sinning. Hear and bless us, for Christ's
sake. Amen,

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229

THANKSGIVING FOR HARVEST.

EVER blessed God, who keepest covenant with
Thy people, and shewest mercy to all, wo
ofier our grateful adorations to Thee for the bounti-
ful harvest with which Thou hast crowned the
labours of the husbandman, and hast provided for
us our daily bread. Thou hast fulfilled Thine ancient
j)romise, that seed time and harvest should not fail.
Thou hast graciously given fertility to the soil, hast
made it soft v»nth showers, and blessed the spring-
ing thereof. Thy paths drop fatness. Oh, that
men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and
for His wonderful works to the children of men.

May it be over our delight, as it is our ity, to
trace Thy hand in the blessings that meet »o m our
daily path. Continue thy favours, although wo are
undeserving of them, and deepen in our hearts a
sense of our obligation to Thee. May our lives, so
wonderfully preserved, and so richly endowed by
Thy bounty, be daily consecrated to Thy service
and glory.

Help us, Lord, with devout thankfulness of
heart, to recognize the rich provision made for
our spiritual necessities. Thou hast dealt bounti-
fully with us. Thou hast given us the inestimable
gift of the Holy Scriptures. May our souls be sus-
tained and invigorated by the blessed truths and pro-
mises of the Gospel, and be fruitful in all godliness.

230

Famih/ Worship,

May every nation under lieaven soon bo favoured
with the same privileges that wo enjoy, and yield
to Thee its increase. Send forth Thy light and Thy
truth, that they may bring men to Thy holy hill,
and to Thy tabernacles. Lord of tho harvest, send
forth labourers into thy harvest; and grant, for
Christ's sake, that when Thy angels, the reapers,
shall come, at the end of the world, we, and those
we love, may be gathered into the heavenly garner.

We humbly implore these mercies, and all the
fulness of Thy grace and peace, in the name of Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.

FIRST DAY OF THE YEAR.

EVERLASTING GOD, who by Thy goodness
hast brought us together in family worship
a,t the beginning of another year, we would, in the
name of Jesus Christ our Lord, present to Thee un-
feigned thanksgiving for all thy loving-kindness be-
stowed upon us.

When we look back on all Thy dealings in the
past year, what reason have Ave to speak good of
Thy name, and to testify that thou art good, that
Thy mercy is everlasting, and that Thy truth en-
dureth to all generations ! How countless have
been Thy mercies to us, at home and abroad, in

Family Worship,

231

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dangers and in difficulties — in providing for all our
wants, and day by day, from week to week, and
month to month, giving us all things richly to
enjoy !

Thou hast called us in everything to give thanks,
and to glorify Thee in the fires. We would there-
fore praise Thee even for what has been humbling
and painful in the past year. Help us to see Thy
love iu our spiritual conflicts. If Thou hast left us
to walk in darkness and perplexity, and hast even
given us proofs of what was in our heart by leaving
us for a season to ourselves, Oh, help us to discern
in all things Thy wisdom, and our own nothingness.
Help us to see that the trial of our faith is more
precious than gold that perisheth, though it be
tried with fire ; and that all things are ours, whether
the ministers of Thy church, or the world, or life, or
death, or things present, or things to come ; that all
are oars, that we are Christ's, and that Christ is
God's ; and evermore let us glory in Thee alone.

We know not, O God, whether those now assem-
bled together shall, at the close of this year, assem-
ble together again in an unbroken circle, and be the
living to praise Thee ; but we commit all to Thee,
knowing who orders our steps, and performeth ail
things for us ; we know that Thou art our reconciled
Father in Christ Jesus ; and therefore cast all our care
on Thee, in the assurance that thou carest for us.

In the full conviction of the uncertainty of life
and the shortness of time, that the strong may

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be cut off, and the weak spared, and tl\at any of U8
here kneeling together may have to go through sick-
ness and sorrow and danger, or may soon pass into
Thy immediate presence, we heseech Thee that
Thou wouldst give us the sweet assurance that we
love Thee, and are called according to Thy purpose ;
that Thou wouldest teach us the certainty of Thy
A '•ord, that all things work together f<^r our good,
and then, come what may, we will delight in Thv
will, and rejoice in Thy salvation.

May this be a year of large blessings to the whole
earth. Let Zion arise and shine : and may the king-
doms of this world soon become the kingdom of our
Lord and his Christ, that he may reign for ever and
ever. Forgive all our sins, and accept us for the
Redeemer's sake. Amen.

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LAST DAY OF THE YEAR

OTHOU High and Lofty One that inhabitest
eternity, with whom a tliousand years are as
one day, and one day as a thousand years, we, Th}''
creatures, whom Thy hand has formed, and Thy
providence sustained from childhood to this hour,
desire to approach Thee with reverence and godly
fear, and at the same time with the voice of praise
and thanksgiving.

We thank Thee that through thy good hand upon

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us, we have been preserved to this day, and that,
notwithstanding our utter unworthiness, we arc still
permitted to come into Thy presence at the close of
another year, and to address Thee as our Father in
Christ Jesus, and the God of our Salvation.

Help us by Thy Holy Spirit to humble ourselves
before Thee. May He bring to our remembrance
our manifold sins, and shew to us the evil of our
doings. May He impart to us true contrition of
spirit, whilst we recall the folly, pride, unbelief, and
ingratitude which have stained our character through
the year now closing. Thou mightest justly have
cut us down as cumberers of the ground, but through
thine infinite mercy we are still in the land of the
living, and surrounded by innumerable proofs of Thy
goodness.

When, God, we bring to remembrance the
mercies we have enjoyed, the dangers we have
escaped, and the consolation we have experienced,
we may well be overwhelmed with a sense of our
obligations to Thee. We can never be sufficiently
thankful. Bless the Lord, O our souls, and all that
is within us, bless His holy name.

May the review of the way we have been led,
tend to humble us more and more, and lead us also
to exalt and magnify the riches of Thy grace. Shew
us the emptiness of this vain world, and the folly of
seeking our rest in that which is polluted, and so
soon to pass away. May we grow more heavenly-
minded as we approach nearer the grave. Amidst

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all the changing scenes of this transient world, may
our hearts be fixed on things heavenly and eternal.

We would ask the same blessings for our fellow
Christians everywhere. Let not this solemn season
pass without producing in them deep humiliation for
their sins, heartfelt thankfulness to Thee for thine
abounding mercies, and determined purposes of living
more entirely to Thee. Revive thy work, Lord,
in the midst of the days, not only in our hearts, but
throughout ^ur country, and in all the Churches of
Christ.

And now, most gracious God, we commit ourselves
once more into Thy faithful hands ; beseeching Thee
to forgive all our sins and shortcomings, and to give
us all those good things which we are not worthy
to ask, save only in the name of Thy Son, Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen,

FOR A MEMBER OF A FAMILY

UNWELL.

OUR FATHER, who art in heaven, who hast
loved us, and given us all the good we have
ever enjoyed, and who, by Jesus Christ, hast brought
redemption to us, and given us in Him a hope of
eternal life ; we come to Thee accordin^^ to Thy gra-
cious command. We remember Thy loving kind-

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ness ; Thou hast given us long periods of unbroken
health, and of household comfort. If we forgot
Thee, because we did not suffer ; or if we took thy
gifts as if we deserved them, merciful Father, for-
give us, for the sake of Christ Jesus, and let not
severe chastisements be needful to render us grate-
ful, and sensible of our dependence upon Thee.

Thou, good and merciful Lord, hast enjoined upon
us to call upon Thee in the day of trouble, and hast
given the promise of deliverance. Therefore do we
beseech thee on behalf of that one of our number
whose sickness now fills us with anxiety. Be plfiased,
God, to bless the human skill that is employed,
to render effectual the present, or to point out new,
remedies. Be pleased, O God, to give back the
blessing of health, that we may all rejoice before
Thee, and glorify Thy name ; and if it be Thy will
to protract this trial, give patience to the sufferer,
and to us, and let us be brought nearer to Thee.
And if, O God, seeing that all flesh is grass, and that
we must all one day die, it be Thy will by this
stroke to take away the object of our care, let there
be, we beseech Thee, clear and conscious trust in the
Redeemer. Oh, give the teaching of Thy good
Spirit to our beloved one, and to all sufferers, and
help us to wait upon Thee for all we need, through
our only Lord and Redeemer, Jesus Christ Amen.

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Family Worship.

FOE A MEMBER OF A FAMILY
APPARENTLY DYING.

FATHER of Mercies, from whom no sighs or
groanings are hid, be merciful to Thy ser-
vant before Thee. Restore him to health, if it be
Thy will. If Thou hast ordained otherwise, prepare
him for the great change.

Visit Mm, we humbly beseech Thee, with Thy
salvation. Give /lim true repentance. For the sake
of Christ Jesus, who died for us, may all the sins of
his past life be forgiven. May he be filled with the
light of Christ's love. May he possess the wealth
and the blessedness of peace with Thee. May he
have the witness of Thy Spirit that he is a child of
God. Enable him heartily to say, "For me to live is
Christ, and to die is gain."

Adorable Redeemer, mercifully assist Thy servant
in this time of hi8 extremity. Give him relief De-
liver Mm from his sufferings. Let him hide himself
in Thee.

Holy Spirit of God, perfect Thy servant for glory.
If he is to die at this time, may his death be pre-
cious in the Lord's sight. Grant that he may peace-
fully fall asleep in Jesus. Hear us, and answer us,
for Christ's sake, 4w^^»

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237

' I

THANKSGIVING FOR EECOVERY
FROM SICKNESS.

MOST gracious and holy, good and merciful
God, we have heard, we have seen, we have
experienced Thy love. Thou hast not made Thyself
known to us by the judgments which our sins de-
served ; but art manifested to us as a God willing to
forgive all our iniquities. Thou hast delivered our
eyes from tears, and our hearts from anguish ;
and in Thy mercy hast spared Thy servant whom
Thou hast lately afflicted. Thou hast chastened and
corrected ^im, but Thou hast not delivered Mm
over unto death. Thou, Lord, hast turned our
mourning into joy, and our fears into songs of
praise.

May this Thy servant, whom Thou hast spared,
love Thee more, and walk more perfectly before Thee
in the land of the living. Perfect, we beseech Thee,
his recovery ; and grant unto hirriy and to every one
of us in this family, a due sense of Thy mercy and
compassion, that henceforth we may depend on Thee
more entirely for the preservation of our earthly
comforts, and may consider them as Thy free gifts.

We again present ourselves, with all we have and
all we are, a living sacrifice to Thee for all our re-
maining days. Be with us when we are passing
through the valley of the shadow of death. Guard
us that we may fear no evil, and bring us safe to

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Thine eternal kingdom and glory, through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.

FOR A SICK CHILD.

OOUR Father, who hast pity on Thy servants,
and she west mercy to their children, we
commend to Thy fatherly kindness this suffering
child. Be pleased to bless the means used for Ids
restoration to health, and may he be spared to serve
and to honour Thee in the land of the living, and
at last be admitted to Thy heavenly kingdom and
glory.

Gracious Saviour, who of old didst receive little
children and lay Thine hands on them and bless
them, have compassion on this little one. Thou
hast only to speak the word, and presently he shall
be healed. We beseech Thee to rebuke the disease
under which he is suffeiing, and raise him from the
couch of sii^iviiess in health and strength.

And, holy Spirit, who alone canst renew and
sanctify, do Thou transform lii'ni into the moral and
spiritual likeness of Christ, and may the work of
grace now commenced in him be carried on to per-
fection.

Forgive all our sins, O God, we beseech Thee, and
accept us for the sake of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus
Christ. Amen.

Family Worship.

239

ON OCCASION OF THE DEATH OF A
MEMBER OF A FAMILY.

ALMIGHTY GOD, unchangeable and everlast-
ing, grant that we may recognize Thy pres-
ence at this time, and speak to Thee as children to
a father. May it please Thee to hear us, and vouch-
safe to us help and succour, for Christ's sake.

In Thine inscrutable providence, Thou has sent
the messenger of death to our home, and removed
one oi our number. We tbdiik Thee for all Thy
goodness ; for that measure of grace and peace and
joy which Thou wast pleased to grant to the de-
parted one while here. We now seek to entertain
the blessed hope that Thou hast taken him to Thy-
self.

Under the shadow of this sore bereavement we
cry to Thee for help — we look to Thee for a renewal
of grace and strength. Enable us to bow with holy
resignation under Thy chastening hand, not only be-
cause Thou art infinitely great, but also because Thou
art full of compassion, and causest all things to work
together for our good.

Sanctify to us this dispensation of Thy providence.
Pardon, we beseech Thee, our suspicions of Thy
goodness and love. Forbid that we should refuse to
be comforted, or sorrow as others who have no hjpe.

From our hearts do we thank Thee that if it is
written, " The wages of sin is death," it is also writ'

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Family Worship.

ten, " The gift of God is eternal life, by Jesus Christ
our Lord." Grant that this void in our affections
may be filled up by Christ, and may we evermore be
conformed to His blessed will and image. May light
arise in our darkness, and may our sorrows become
joys, and our joys the foretaste and reflection of the
joys of heaven. Grant that we may be weaned from
the vanities of the earthly, and become more and
more alive to the realities of the heavenly.

Almighty God, we beseech Thee that Thouwould-
est sanctify this dispensation to all our relatives and
friends. Impress upon them and us, with fresh vivid-
ness and power, that we dwell in houses of clay ; that
in the midst of life we are in death ; and grant that
we may be quickened anew, and strive more ear-
nestly and faithfully in the future to be followers of
those who, through faith and patience, are now "in-
heriting the promises. All we ask is for Christ's
sake. Amen,

ON OCCASION OF THE DEATH OF A
YOUNG PERSON.

IN thine hands, Lord, our breath is, and Thine
are all our ways. When Thou takest away
our breath we die, and return to our kindred dust.
It has pleased Thee, Lord, to take away a mem-
ber of this family in early life. We desire tQ bow

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241

fill I!

to Thy will, and to say, It is the Lord, let Him do
as scemeth to Him good.

We betake ourselves in this time of trial to the
sympathy of Him who had compassion on the
widow of Nain, and who wept with the sisters of
Lazarus. May He pour the balm of heavenly con-
solation into our sorrowing spirits. We rejoice to
know that Christ is the resurrection and the life
Sufter us not, therefore, to mourn for any who have
fallen asleep in Jesus, but rejoice in the assurance
that hereafter they shall awake to glory, honour
and immortality.

Sanctify to us this dispensation of Thy Provi-
dence. May we be deeply impressed with the
shortness and uncertaint^T- of life, and with the ne-
cessity of preparing for death, judgment and eter-
nity. May the young especially hear Thy voice
saying to them. Be ye also ready, for in such an
hour as ye know not, the Son of Man cometh.

May all the surviving members of this family
be members of the household of faith, heirs of God,
and joint heirs with Christ; and let none be wanting
from among the happy company who shall meet in
our Father's house in heaven.

Remember in mercy all who suffer, as we do, un-
der the stroke of bereavement. May they be com-
forted with the same consolation with which we
beseech Thee to comfort us. Pardon all our sins,
and accept us for the gracious Redeemer's sake.
Amen,

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242

Family Worship,

ON OCCASION OF THE DEATH OF A

YOUNG CHILD.

OLORD, Thou settest the solitary in families,
and we thank Thee for the children Thou
hast graciously given to us. We acknowledge also,
Thy right to do with them, and with us, as seemeth
good in Thine eyes. As, therefore, it has pleased
Thee to take to Thyself our beloved little one, we
desire to say with Thy servant of old, The Lord
gave and the Lord hath taken away ; blessed be
the name of the Lord.

We thank Thee that we are not left to sorrow
for our child as if we had no hope. We rejoice
that where sin abounds, grace doth much more
abound, and that for infants lost in Adam there is
eternal life in Christ. We delight to remember the
gracious words of Jesus, " Suffer little children to
come unto me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
May we derive comfort from the thought, that our
child has been removed from a world of sin and
sorrow, to a world of holiness and joy.

Lord, grant that his removal from us may be the
means of weaning our hearts from the world, and
leading us to live more entirely under the power of
unseen realities. May we learn to be more anxious
to lay up our treasure in heaven, and to train the
surviving members of our family as the children of
God, a»d heirs of immortality.

Family Wo^'ship,

243

Lord, havo compassion on all who aro bereaved ;
and by the abundant conimunications of Thy grace,
shew Thyself to bo bettor to tliem than sons or
daujifhters. Be a Father to the fatherless, and a
Husband to the widow in Thy holy habitation, and
comfort all who mourn. Forgive and accept us,
through Christ Jesus, Thy Son. Ameri,

ON THE OCCASION OF A BURIAL.

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FATHER of Mercies and God of all comfort,
Thou hast often invited us to Thyself by a
profusion of kindness ; and it manifests our deprav-
ity, that we think of Thee so little in the hour of
ease and prosperity. But we are now before Thee
in affliction and distress, yet we rejoice to know that
Thou art a very present and an all-sufficient help
in trouble.

Thou takest away, and who can hinder Thee, or
day unto Thee, what doest Thou ? Thou hast a
right to do what Thou wilt with Thine own. Thou
art a Sovereign, and the reasons of Thy conduct are
often far above out of our sight ; but Thy work is
perfect, Thy ways are judgment. All Thy dispen-
sations are wise and righteous and kind — kind even
when they seem to be severe.

May we hear Thy voice in Thy rod^ as well ag in

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Family Worship.

Thy word, and, gathering from tho corrections with
which we are exercised, tho peaceable fruits of right-
eousness, be able to acknowledge with all our suf-
fering brethren before us, it is good for us that we
have been afflicted.

Thou hast permitted death to invade our circle,
and hast turned our dwelling into a house of mourn-
ing. May we find that it is better to be in the
house of mourning than in the house of mirth. By
the sadness of the countenance may the heart bo
made better, more serious to reflect, and more soft-
ened to take impression.

With the feelings of the creature may we blend
the hopes of the Christian. May we remember that
Thou hast bereaved us, not as an aggressor, but as a
proprietor ; resuming what was lent us for a season,
but never ceased to be Thine own. May we there-
fore be dumb, and open not our mouth, because
Thou hast done it ; or if we speak, may it be to ac-
knowledge and say — We know, Lord, that Thy
judgments are right, and that Thou in faithfulness
hast afflicted us.

We bless Thee for Thy goodness to the deceased.
We ascribe whatever excellency was found in him
to Thy grace ; and desire to be followers of him^ as
far as he was of Christ.

Forgive us in whatever instances we failed in our
duty towards Aim. Let the prayers he offered for
us while on earth be answered ; and may we enjoy
with him hereafter a renewed and improved inter-

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245

course, in which we shall be for ever with each other,
and for ever with the Lord.

And unto Him that is able to keep us from fall-
ing, and to present us faultless before the presence
of His glory, with exceeding joy — to the only wise
God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, and domin-
ion, both now and forever. ATtten.

ON OCCASION or THE BUEIAL OF

A CHILD.

OLORD, Thou art from everlasting to ever-
lasting ; but we are creatures of a day. Man
that is born of a woman is of a few days, and is
full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower, and
is cut down ; he fleeth also as a shadow, and con-
tinueth not. It is by Thine appointment that death
reigns over the sinful sons of men — even over infant
children, who have not deliberately sinned after the
similitude of Adam's transgression.

But, Lord, we adore and bless Thee that, by the
resurrection of Christ Jesus. Thou hast begotten us
to the hope of eternal life and blessedness beyond
death and the grave ; and we thank Thee that in
the heavenly mansions there is room for the young
as well as the old. for infant children as well as for
aged believers.

May we, therefore, bow with ref^ignation to the

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Family Worship.

stroke which has taken from us our beloved child.
Believing in the promises and declarations of Thy
word, we rejoice to think that our child is safe and
happy in the better land. We do not ask him back ;
but although he shall not return to us, orant that
we, when life is closed, may go to him, and, with the
whole family of the redeemed, rejoice in Thy presence.

We yield to the grave the body of our departed
child, in the assurance that his very dust is dear to
Thee, and that when the resurrection morn shall
dawn upon the world it shall be raised to life, to
glory and to immortality through the power of Him
who hath plucked from death its sting, and from the
grave its victory.

Sanctify to our souls this dispensation of Thy
Providence. May we learn from it to live as
strangers upon earth, to have our conversation in
heaven, and to be ever looking forward with joy to
the glorious appearance of Christ, when He shall
come to be glorified with all His saints. Forgive our
many sins, and accept us, for Christ Jesus' »ake.
Amen.

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Family Worship,

247

REFLECTIONS AND MEDITATIONS
FOR SICK AND AFFLICTED PER-
SONS.

OTHOU most holy and righteous God, who
orderest all things in heaven and in earth,
and with the greatest tenderness dost hear the cries
of all who put their trust in Thee, through Jesus
Christ, I believe that Thou dost appoint unto me
every circumstance of my condition. I desire to
look through all second causes to Thee, Lord God,
who makest them merely instruments to do Thy
will, and execute Thy purpose respecting the children
of men. Thou infinitely wise and gracious Gov-
ernor of the world, often have I said. Thy will be
done ; but now Thou art pleased to afflict me, I find
my nature ready to shrink back, and to be fretful
under the painful cross. What I have often so
solemnly repeated, I am strongly tempted to unsay ;
and to wish my own will, not Thine, was to be done.
Make speed, O God of my salvation, and help me to
deny myself, to bow down in full submission to Thy
appointment. Bring powerfully to my remembrance,
I beseech Thee, what my mouth hath so often de-
clared in Thy presence, that I have deserved all the
plagues written in the book of the law ; and that it
is mere mercy and rich grace which have kept me

248

Family Worship.

from the wages due to my sin — from weeping, and
wailing, and gnashing of teeth. Whilst Thou art
therefore smiting rae, Thou righteous Judge of all
the earth, give me an heart unfeignedly to adore
Thy mercy, that, instead of the scourge with which
I am now afflicted for my profit. Thou hast not long
since given a commission to the hand of vengeance
to do all its dreadful work upon me. Fill my soul
with a perfect acquiescence under this affliction, by
convincing me that Thou, and Thou alone, knowest
what kind of correction I need. And in the midst
of my troubles, let thy comforts, Lord, refresh my
heart, and relieve the pains and weariness of nature.
Well do I know that dark as this night of affliction
seems, if Thou sayest. Let there be light, there shall
be light. O let me patiently wait and quietly hope
till that time come. Let me be much more concerned
to have my affliction sanctified than removed. Num-
ber me, Lord, amongst the happy persons v-hom,
whilst Thou chastenest. Thou teachcst out of Thy
law. Teach my soi 1 to receive every trouble as a
call to cense from expecting anything from the
creature, ah 1 to be preparing for that hour which
shall put an nd to all the sorrows of the righteous,
and give them an entrance into the everlasting
Kingdom through the blood of the Lamb. Lord,
hear ; Lord, perform and do ; defer not, I beseech
Thee, lest my spirit fail before Thee, and my flesh
which Thou hast made. Amen,

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249

II.

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O ALMIGHTY GOD, merciful and gracious,who,
in Thy justice, didst send sorrow and tears,
sickness and death into the world, as a punishment
for man's sins, and hast comprehended all under sin;
as Thou hast turned my sins into sickness, so turn
my sickness to the interests of holiness and religion;
of mercy and pardon ; of faith and hope ; of grace
and gJory. Relieve my sorrow and support my
spirit. Direct my thoughts, that I may behave
myself as a son under discipline, humbly and obe-
diently ; that I may come by this means nearer to
Thee ; that if I go forth of this sickness by the gate
of life and health, I may return to the world, to run
a new race of stricter holiness : or, if I pass from
hence by the gate of death, I may enter into the
bosom of my Lord, and partake of the pleasures in
which all Thy Saints shall be comprehended to
eternal ages. Grant this for Jesus Christ's sake.

III.

OLORD, Thou art the God of my life, and hast
the keys of death in Thy hand. Thou hast
measured the length of my life, and appointed the

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Family Worship,

the

hour of my death. The number of my months is
with Thee, and Thou hast appointed the bounds over
which I cannot pass. What is my life but a vapour
that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth
away !

Oh, that I may be suitably exercised in my present
weak and dying condition ! When my flesh faileth,
and my heart fainteth within me, may God be the
strength of my heart and my portion for ever.

What shall I say to Thee, Thou Preserver of
men ! I will say. Lord, be merciful to me ; heal my
soul, for I have sinned against Thee. I acknowledge
that, through an evil heart of unbelief, I have many
a time departed from the living God. But with
Thee there is mercy, that Thou mayest be feared,
and with Thy Son there is plenteous redemption ;
wherefore, for His sake, be pleased to forgive me all
my transgressions. Lord, forgive all the follies of
my childhood, the extravagances of my youth, and
the iniquities of my riper years.

Lord, strengthen my faith and hope, so that nei-
ther the sweetness of life, nor the pain of death, nor
apprehensions of my future state, may make me
unwilling to die. Be Thou my refuge and my
strength ; and then I will not fear, though the waters
of affliction rage and be troubled. In the valley of
the shadow of death be Thou present, as the good
Shepherd, with Thy guiding rod and supporting
staff. Carry me safely through the dark passage
upon which I am entering, and let me find it a gate

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Famili/ Woi'ship.

251

to glory — a door opened into the everlasting king-
dom and joy of the Lord. Lord Jesus, receive my
spirit, and let it be presented justified «nnd spotless
to the Father, that it may come to the spirits of the
just made perfect, and join with them in singing the
new song : Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and
hath redeemed us to God by His blood, to receive
power, honour, glory, and blessing for ever. Amen.

IV.

ALMIGHTY GOD, my only help in trouble,
look with pity and compassion upon me,
now under Thy afilicting hand. Be Thou my stay
and confidence under all my sorrows and afilictions,
and suffer me not to sink under the weight of them
through any dejection or faintness of spirit.

Give me such an entire trust and confidence in
Thy mercy through the merits of my dear Redeemer,
that I may cast all my care upon Thee, and with
cheerfulness commit myself into Thy hands, assuredly
believing that all things shall work together for
good to them that love Thee ; and, Lord, grant
that I may be found such a one as through Thy
great mercy may be entitled to the benefit of Thy
gracious promises.

Make me willing and ready to yield to Thy wis-
dom, and to prefer Thy will to my own ; to be con-

252

Family Worship,

tented to bear what Thou pleasest, and to be eased
of mj' burden in Thy time, which is always best.
But, Lord, however Thou art j)lea.sed to deal with
my body, yet spare my soul, I beseech Thee, and
deliver it from the pains of eternal death.

Take me not out of this world till Thou art re-
conciled to me and hast fitted me in some measure
for Thy heavenly kingdom. Grant, Lord, that
whether I live, I may live unto Thee, or whether I
die, I may die unto Thee ; so that living or dying, I
maybe Thine, through Jesus Christ, my ever-blessed
Saviour and Redeemer. Amen.

fT"^RAVELLERS who have met with many storms
1 troubles and dangers in their journeys, rejoice
when they come near their own country ; and shall
not I, a stranger and pilgrim, that have been long
wandering in a wilderness, be glad when I come near
my blessed home, my dear friends, and my eternal
habitation ?

What though Death be the king of terrors, is not
Christ the king of comforts ? O Lord, deliver my
soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet
from falling. Bring me out of the miry clay, set my
feet upon a rock, and establish my goings, and put a
new song in my mouth, even praises to God,

m 'H

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Famili/ Worship.

253

If Jacob went down so cheerfully to Kgypt, when
God said to him, "Fear not to go down, for I will
go down with thee, and I will bring thee up again,"
why should a believer fear to go down to the grave,
when God hath undertaken to go down with him
thither and to bring him up again ? Have 1 such
great and precious promises left me, and shall I not
live and feed upon them in the time of ray need ?

Thou hast said, " Light is sown for the righteous,
and gladness for the upright in heart." Surely God's
seed shall not lie always under the clods : the time
is at hand when it shall spring, and joyful will the
crop be at last. Oh, that, like David in aftiiction, I
could encourage myself in the Lord my God and say
" The Lord liveth ; blessed be my rock." Why should
I droop while my Lord liveth and my rock standeth,
and my Redeemer Himself hath said, " Fear not ; I
am the first and the last ; I am He that liveth and
was dead ; and behold I am alive for evermore 1"

When my soul is cast down within me, let me re-
member God from the land of Jordan and the h'^l
Mizar, that I may reason myself out of all my fears
and discouragements ; for the Lord will yet com-
mand liis loving-kindness in the day-time, and in
the night His song shall be with me, and my prayer
to the God of my life. Why, then, art thou cast
down, my soul, and why art thou disquieted with-
in me ? Hope in God ; for I shall yet praise Him
who is the health of my countenance and my God.

Now when death is at hand, let not my Saviour

254

Family Worship,

bo far off. May Ho who remembered the dying
thief and spoke comfortably to him, remember me
now that He is seated in His kingdom, and say to
my soul, " This day shalt thou be with me in Para-
dise." Let me now depart that I may bo with
Christ : yea, be for ever with the Lord ; that I may
see His face. Let me dwell there where they need
no candle or light of the sun, where God shall wipe
away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no
more death, neither sorrow nor crying.

Father, into Thy hands I commit my spirit. By
the hands of Him who hath redeemed it, let it be
presented to Thee without spot or wrinkle, or any
such thing. Amen,

VI.

OLORD, who scourgest every son whom Thou
receivest, let me not be weary of Thy cor-
rection. Give me such a perfect submission to Thee,
the Father of spirits, that this chastisement may be
for my profit, that I may thereby be made a partaker
of Thy holiness.

1 confess, O Lord, that I have deserved much
greater punishments than I now feel. Make me
cheerfully and thankfully to bear my present pains ;
chasten me as Thou seest fitting ; do with me what
Thou pleasest here, so I may not be condemned in
the world hereafter.

,l!

Family Worship,

255

Lord Jesus, who didst firat suffer many and griev-
ous things, and didst then enter into Thy glory, make
me to suflfbr with Thee, that I may also be glorified
with Thee.

Blessed f^igh Priest, who art able to save to the
uttermost them who come to God by Thee, save me,
I beseech Thee, who have no hopes but in Thy
merits and intercession. Suffer not my soul, which
Thou hast purchased with Thine own blood, to
perish, but say unto me, I am Thy salvation.

Take me, God, where I shall ever behold Thy
face and follow the Lamb whithersoever He goetL
Into Thy hands I commend my spirit, for Thou hast
redeemed me, O Lord God of ^ruth. In Thee have
I trusted, let me never be put to shame. Amen,

vn.

. f .:*

THE Lord is pleased sometimes to cast men
down on beds of sickness, and draw the
curtain betwixt the world and them, that they
might take a view of their past life and future
state. Now it is time for me to look into my
soul, and examine my state.

Have I aimed at God's honour in all my actions,
civil, natural, and religious ? Doth the love of
Christ keep me back from sin, more than the law,
or fear of hell 1 Am 1 humble, and denied to my

256

Family Worship.

own will, credit, ease, and honour, and to all the
enjoyments of the world ? Am I acquainted with
the throne of grace, and desirous to keep up a
constant correspondence with it ? Let mo not rest
till I perceive those things in my soul which accom-
pany salvation.

How comfortable would it be to me now if I
could say, with good Hezekiah in his sickness —
Remember, Lord, how I have walked before
Thee in truth, and with a perfect heart, and have
done that which is good in thy sight ! Oh that I
could pray, and say, like Jesus, my Saviour, when
in the view of death — Father, I have glorified Thee
on earth ; I have finished the work which Thou
gavest me to do. And now, Father, glorify me
with Thine own self, with the glory which Thou hast
ordained for me before the world was.

Alas ! Lord, I must confess that my iniquities
have gone up above mine head ; my misspent time,
my unfruitfulness under the means of grace, my
neglect of ordinances, make me to cry out — Woe is
me for the leanness of my soul, and the barrenness
of my heart. But my relief is in my surety's right-
eousness. How suitable is He to my soul's case !
I have indeed a multitude of sins, but He hath a
multitude of mercies; I have deep and heinous
guilt, but He hath a deep fountain for washing it
out ; I am sold under sin, bat He hath a ransom to
buy me back again ; my wound is great, but His
balm is excellent. Surely it is my wisdom to go to

I '! ! '

i I

Family fVorship,

257

Christ with all my grievances, and always to lie ami
cry at my Redeemer's feet.

I know, Lord, that no unclean thing can enter
into Thy kingdom, and Thou seest that I am nothing
but pollution ; yea, my very righteousness is filthy
rags. Oh, wash me, and make me white in the blood
of the Lamb. Take me from the tents of Kedar, to
the mansions of light and purity. When my earthly
house of this tabernacle is dissolved, let me have a
building of God — an house not made with hands,
eternal in the heavens. Bring my soul out of prison,
that I may eternally give thanks to Thy name.
Amen,

VIIL

FEW and evil have the days of the years of
my life been, and have not attained unto
the days of the years of the life of my fathers in
the days of their pilgrimage. But I have AVJiited
for Thy salvation, O God.

Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth ?
Are not his days also like the days of an hireling 'i
Man dieth and wasteth away ; yea, man giveth up
the ghost, and where is he ? I know that my Re-
deemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter
day upon the earth ; and though after my death
worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall T sr(

•268

Family Worship,

God : whom I shall seo for myself, and not another ;
though my reins be consumed within me.

O Lord, rebuke me not in Thine anger, neither
chasten me in Thy hot displeasure. Return, Lord,
deliver my sold ; O save me for Thy mercies' sake.
Preserve me, God, for in Thee do I put my truit.
Thou wilt show mo the path of life ; in Thy presence
is fidness of joy ; at Thy right hand there are plea-
sures for evermore. I will behold Thy face in right-
eousness. I shall be satisfied when 1 awake with
Thy likeness.

In the time of trouble Thou wilt hide me in Thy
pavilion. Yea, though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil ; for Thou
art with me ; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort
me. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all
the days of my life ; and I will dwell in the house
of the Lord for ever.

All the day long have I been plagued, and chas-
tened every morning. Nevertheless, I am continually
with Thee. Thou hast holden me by my right hand.
Thou shalt guide me with Thy counsel, and after-
ward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven
but Thee 1 and there is none upon earth that I de-
sire beside Thee. My flesh and my heart faileth ;
but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion

for ever.

I am troubled on every side, yet not distressed ;
perplexed, but n^t in despair ; always bearing about
in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the

Family Worship,

259

life also of Jesus might be made manifest in my
body. To me tt live is Christ, and to die is gain.
I ki>ow whom I have believed, and am j)ersuaded
that He is able to keep that which I have committed
unto Him against that day. Henceforth there is laid
up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord,
the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day ; and
not to me only, but unto all them that love His ap-
pearing. death, where is thy sting ? O grave,
where is thy victory ? The sting of death is sin,
and the strength of sin is the law. But thankii be
to God, who giveth me the victory through my
Lord Jesus Christ. Amen,

259

PRIVATE PRAYERS.

and

I.
BEFORE READING THE SCRIPTURES.

I THANK Thee, God, for Thy word, which
Thou hast given to be a lamp to my feet and
a light to my path, and for the promised guidance of
Thy Holy Spirit. Open my eyes, i beseech Thee,
to behold the wondrous things contained in Th}'
law. I am a stranger and pilgrim on earth ; hide
not Thy commandments from me. In reading, at
this time, a portion of Thy word, may I obtain clearer
views of Thy glorious perfections, of the excellency
of Christ, of the way of salvation, of the path of
duty, of my own character, and of the realities of the
eternal world. Help me also to retain in my
memory the truths of Thy word, that I may be
guided by its precepts, animated by its promises,
and sanctified by all its teachings. At every fresh per-
usal of it may I, through the illumination of Thy
Spirit, obtain a deeper insight into its meaning ; and
now especially may I see more of its hidden trea-
sures, and let me never cease to esteem Thy word as

Family Worship,

261

more precious than gold, and sweeter to inj^ taste
than honey. Let Thy precepts be my delight, and Thy
statutes be my songs in the house of my pilgrimage.
Forgive and accept me for the Lord Jesus Christ's
sake. Amen.

\ :l

FOR REPENTANCE.

OGOD, Thou hast revealed Thy wrath from
heaven against all ungodliness and unright-
eousness of men, and hant declared that except they
repent they shall all perish ; but hast assured
them of pardon upon their repentance. Thou seest
that my heart is harden«jd through the deceitfnlness
of sin; and that it must fur ever remain obdii/flie, \f
Thou do not soften it by Thy grace. I beseech Thee,
therefore, to give me true repentance ; that repc^nt-
ance which is never to be repented of; that broken-
ness of heart, and that deep contrition, which Thou
wilt not despise. Turn Thou untc me, Lord, and
so shall I be turned ; renew me in the spirit of my
mind, that I may bring forth fruits meet for repent-
ance, not only confessing and bewailing my sins, but
also hating and forsaking them. Lot me henceforth
walk with all possible care and circumspection, and
make it the great business of my life to keep myself

»■ •]

202

Family Worship.

()

in Thy fear and love. Let the past time suffice t
have wrought my own will ; henceforth let me have
^race to forsake all evil ways and evil thoughts.
Have mercy upon me, and abundantly pardon all
my multiplied transgressions. Hear me, God, and
answer me, through the infinite lidiths of Tliy grace
and goodness in Christ Jesus, my only Saviour.
Amen.

in.

FOR FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD.

WITHOUT faith it is impossible to please
Thee, O God; and therefore I come to
Thee to beg of Thee that fixith which is Thy gift.
Lord, help my unbelief, and increase my faith.
Whatever Thou hast revealed, let me take it upon
the credit of Thy word ; and where I have Thy pro-
mise, let me not stagger through unbeli(^f, I nit fully
persuade myself that it shall be as Thou linst snid.
Enrich my soul with such a faith as may purify my
licart, and influence my whole life ; such a faith as
may enable me to give myself to Christ Jesus fis my
Lord, that being ruled andsanctiiied by Him in this
life, I may bo for ever saved and glorified by Him in
the life that is to come. Give me that effectual faith
that shall work by love ; which shall enable me to

! i

: 1

fli

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Family Worship,

263

overcome the world, and fix my attention on those
glorious things which are unseen and eternal.

In my greatest darkness and distress let me trust
in the name of the Lord, and stay myself upon my
God. Though I am not immediately answered in
the wishes of my heart, let me tarry and patiently
wait for the salvation of the Lord, and have my
eyes upon the Lord my God, till He have mercy
upon me. Yea, make me so sound and strong in the
faith, that it may never fail ; but be found to praise
and honour and glory in every time of trial, and at
the great appearing of my Lord and Saviour Jesus
Christ. Amen,

IV.

FOR PERSEVERANCE.

ETERNAL GOD, with whom is everlasting
strength ! Thou art able to keep me from
falling, and to perform the good work begun in me
till the day of Jesus Christ. Thou knowest how
frail and v;eak I am ; how wavering, and bent to
backsliding ; how apt to decline and fall. Have
pity on my infirraities, and strengthen me in my
weaki?.ess. Preserve me from tho danger o^ apt.us-
tacy, and keep me that I fall not awf^y fyoiii -.,'■.] ^
good boginnmgs to wliich Thy grace h^se Gv •*

vf'?-. V •«>

264

Family Worship,

brought mc ; and put Thy fear in my heart, that I
may not depart from Thee. Make me so firmly
Thine, that nothing which befalls me in the world
may ever separate betwixt Thee and my soul, or
turn me from the way of life.

Thou hfi fit been my help; leave me not, neither
forsake me, God of my salvation : but hold me up,
and I shall be safe, and shall have respect to Thy
statutes continually. Strengthen, stablish, settle
me : and as I too often renew my sins, Lord, renew
me to repentance. Though I fall, let me not bo ut-
terly cast down, but uphold me with Thine Al-
mighty hand, and keep me by Thy power through
faith unto salvation. Make me faithful unto death,
that Thou mayst give me the Crown of life. Make
me so to endure unto the end that I may be saved.
and receive the glorious consummation of all my
hopes, even that blessed end of my faith, the eter-
nal salvation of my soul. Araen,

•I

5 -'

FOR GRACE TO KEEP THE COMMAND-

MENTS.

I PRAY, God, for an evangelical outset in en-
tering upon Thy service, that it may be the
service of affection and not of constraint, and that I
may go forth in tho peace of those who love Thy
law. Thy comma i\drnent, O Lord, is exceeding

MWlfflliHlillWlllilm'

i '

f , 4,

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Family Worship.

265

broad ; O incline and strengthen me in the v ork of
keeping it. Save me from the love of the civ ature
more than the Creator. May I think of Thee by the
word and not mine own imagination ! May I hallow
Thy name ; may T delight in Thy Sabbaths ; may I
honour my superiors — not speaking evil of dignities ;
and do Thou forgive the impatience I felt with my
parents. Save me from the feeling of hatred to-
wards any living creature. May I be faithful even
in the things which are least ; and give me to be
as scrupulously honourable in words as in actions.
Finally, may I be content with such things as
I have ; and free me more especially from the covet-
ousness that would trench on the possessions or the
rights of other men. O put these laws in my heart,
and write them in my mind ; transfer them from the
place they once held on tablets of stone to the fleshy
tablets of my inner man, that it may prove no longer
the ministration of death, but unto me the minis-
tration of righteousness ; and that the law of the
Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus might make me free
from the law of sin and death. Amen.

VI.

FOR PURITY OF HEART AND CONVERSA-
TION.

ALMIGHTY GOD, give me grace that I may
never follow the inclinations of corrupted

265

206

Family Worship.

nature, nor govern myself according to the maxims
of an evil world. O Holy S[)irit of Grace, sanctify
my heart, that no base or impure thoughts, no mean
and covetous affections, may lodge there. Govern
my tongue, that no corrupt communications may
proceed out of my mouth. Guard my eyes, purify
my hands, guide my feet. Lord Jesus Christ,
without whom I can do nothing, be Thou my Advo-
cate with God, as well as my example, that 1 may
live and be as Thou wouldst have me. Amen.

if !

VII.

FOR A FORGIVING DISPOSITION.

OGOD, who alone canst order the unruly wills
and affections of sinful men, show mercy to
Thy servant in constraining my corrupt nature to be
obedient to Thy commands. God, who hast made
it iny everlasting interest, as well as my duty, to
forgive my neighbour whatever wrong he has done
me, help mo to overcome all the difficulties I have
to struggle with, all i)ride, projudir^!, and desire of
rendc^ring evil iuv evil, tlint 1 may not deprive my
soul of that mercy which Thine infinite goodness
has offered to sinners. Uam^A God, help me in
this great concern that I may never fall under Thy
wrath for want of sliowing meicy t^> others; but

'Ill

Family Worshij).

267

grant, O blessed Jesus, that in this I may be Thy
disci])le indeed, jimen.

l IH

••n'r

VIII.
FOR SPIRITUAL ENLARGEMENT.

OGOD, pour on me the Spirit of grace and sup-
plication. Give me more and more to feel
its necessity, and to have experience of its power.
Send me a token of encouragement from Thy sanc-
tuary, and let me have the precious, the sublime
satisfaction of knowing that there is the reality of a
living interchange between God and my soul.
Above all, my Father in heaven, give me the saving
and spiritual manifestation of the truth as it is :n
Jesus. Admit me into a felt and actual fellowship
with the Father and with the Son. Quicken me by
Thy Spirit from this stale of depression and of dead-
n«s8. Enlarge me, Lord, so that I may break
forth and beyond the limits by which I now feel
myaeif so straitened and confined. Enlighten the
darkness of my understanding, that I may know
what it is to ia-ve the spiritual understanding of
Thyself, and of Thy Scriptures, to have the spirit nf
revdatioit and of wisdom in the khuw ledge of Johuh
Qhr'mi, Aw^in

207

268

Family Worship,

IX.

FOR PREPARATION AND READINESS TO

DIE.

LORD, what is my life but a vapour, that ap-
pears for a little time, and then vanishes
away ! Even at the longest, how short! and at the
strongest, how frail ! Yet how have I lived in this
world as if I should never leave it ! How unmindful
of my end ! How improvident of my time ! How
careless of my soul ! But, O Father of mercies, remem-
ber not my sins against me ; but remember Thine
own tender mercies and Thy loving-kindnesses, which
have been ever of old. remember how short my
time is, and spare me that I may recover strength
before I go hence to be no more seen.

In the days of health and prosperity may I re-
member and provide for the time of trouble, and sick-
ness, and death. I^et me never allow myself in any
course of living wherein I would be loath or afraid to
die. But let me see my corruptions mortified and sub-
dued, that thoy may not rise up in judgment against
me. Assist me in my preparation for my dying hour.
Lord, make me so ready to meet Thee at Thy
coming, that Tl»lliuHp[K«ararH]« may be the matter of
my fiopoR, and desires, and joyful expectations. Help
me Hn U) live as, at the bour uH «leath, I shall wish T
had lived f nuii hu iA) tmki' mnly for death all my
days that, at ui^ hmi day, J may havti nothing todr;

Family Worship,

260

but to die, and cheerfully to resign my spirit into Tliy
gracious hands. O, my Father, hoar and answer my
humhle petitions, and let me find a mnciful admis-
sion to Thy favour and Thy kingdom, for the sake of
my only Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.

THE WIDOW'S PRAYER.

OLORD, it has pleased Thee to take from me
the desire of my eyes, the companion of
my life, the dearest of my earthly friends. Thou
hast laid Thy hand very heavily upon me, and f am
tempted to say — the Almighty hath denlt very bit-
terly with me. But I know that all Thy deal-
ings are just and right, and I desire, therefore,
to bow in submission to Thy will ; and as Thou hast
revealed Thyself as the Father of the fatherless and
the Judge of the widow, so I repair to Thee for
strength and comfort. that my Maker may be
my husband. Shield me, O God, by Thy power,
guide me by Thy wisdom, sustain me by Thy gracC;
and supply all my wants out of the stores of Thine
exhaustless fulness. To Thy fatherly kindness 1 com-
mend the children Thou hast given me. Enable me to
train them aright. Put Thy fear into their hearts ;
write Thy laws upon their minds; preserve them

270

Family Worship.

from the snares to which their youth and inexperi-
ence are exposed. May they serve the God of their
fathers with a j)erfect lioarb and a willing mind. Be
Thou their instructor and their stay. Make them
faithful and useful in their day and generation.
Give each of them a title to the heavenly inherit-
ance, and at last an abundant entrance into
Thy kingdom and glory. On Thee I cast all my
cares, believing that Thou carest for me. Lord be
gracious to me, pardon, accept, and bless me, for the
Lord Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

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Sciences
Corporation

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) 877-4503

DIRECTIONS TO THE FRIENDS OF
SICK AND AFFLICTED PERSONS.

VISITING of the sick Is the duty not only of the
ministers of Christ, but likewise of all the
members of Christ; for we are all enjoined to
remember them that are in adversity, and to sympa-
thize with the afflicted, as being ourselves also in the
body. "To him that is afflicted pity should be shown
by his friends,'^ saith Job. And our Lord gives it as a
character of those whom he will own and ac([uit at
the last day-" I was sick and ye visited me." And as
it is our duty, so it is our interest and advantage to
visit the sick. The wise man tells us, " It is better
to go to the house of mourning than to the house of
feasting." We may hereby be instructed to prize
health ; to mind our own frailty; to see what a bit-
ter thing sin is, the cause of suffering ; and to ob-
serve how happy the man is that has an interest in
Christ, the peace of a good conscience, and a well
grounded hope of heaven.

Let the friends of the sick, and those who visit
them, deal faithfully with them about their souls ;
and in order thereto let them observe the following
advices.

272

Family Worship.

Labour to know the sick man's condition. The
knowledge of the disease is previously requisite to
the cure, as the mistake of a physician about a man's
disease may be as dangerous as the disease itself
so here it is highly dangerous to mistake the case
of the sick man's soul ; for then promises may be
administered where threatenings are more proper.

II.

Beware of flattering the sick with vain hopes of
life, when he is more likely to die ; lest he be there-
by tempted to delay or slacken his preparation for
another world. It is fit that plainness be used
with respect to this danger, that he may be quick-
ened to his work.

III.

The sick person is to be admonished and told
that sickness comes not by chance nor by second
causes merely, but by the wise direction, and special
providence of God ; that sometimes God smites out
of displeasure for sin, and for the sinner's correction
and amendment ; and sometimes for the trial and
exercise of his people's graces ; that the sharpest af-
flictions work together for good to them that love

Family Worsh ip.

273

God, and are tightly exercised under God's hand ;
and that it is a great mercy to a sinner when God
by his rod gives hiui warning and space to repent
and flee to the blood of sprinkling, and to cry to
God for pardon.

IV.

If the sick 'person is ignorant, he is to be instructed
in the principles of religion, especially concerning
faith and repentance and the method of salvation
through Christ. It may be proper to demand an-
swers to such questions as these : — Do you believe in
God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, one God in
three persons ? Do you believe that Jesus Christ, who
died on the cross, and rose from the dead, is the only
Saviour of sinners ? Are you sensible that you are a
lost sinner by Adam's fall ; and besides, that you
are guilty of innumerable actual sins; and that for
these you deserve God's wrath, both in this life, and
in that which is to come ? Are you truly grieved
and sorry for breaking God's law ; and would you
do as you have done, or live otherwise, had you
your life to live again ? Are you desirous from
your heart to be reconciled to God through Jesus
Christ, the blessed peace-maker ? Do you heartily
approve of the Gospel method of reconciliation, by
the righteousness, and sacrifice ofiered by the Lord
Jesus Christ, as your surety, in your name and stead ?

274

Family Worship,

Do you renounce all confidence in any other, and
put yonr whole trust and confidence in Christ, and
the merits of His death and blood ? Do you desire to
be wholly renewed and sanctified by virtue of Christ's
blood, and to show forth the reality of your faith
by good works, and a holy life, for the time you
have to live in the world ?

If the sick person has endeavoured to walk up-
rightly, hut is at present discouraged on account of
the guilt of sin, fear of death or the like ; then suit-
able counsels are to be tendered. He may be told
that sharp trials are not inconsistent with divine
love, and are frequently a sign of it. It is proper,
also, to set before him the freeness and fulness of
God's grace, the sufficiency of righteousness in Christ,
and His rich and gracious offers in the Gospel ; and
that believers in Christ are assured of victory over
Satan, death, and all their enemies, because Christ,
their head, hath by His cross conquered the devil,
taken the sting from death, triumphed over the grave,
and obtained victory for all His members.

VI.

If a sick man is so tempted and troubled in con-
science that he is in hazard of despairing of God's

Family Worship,

275

mercy, it is necessary to inform him of the greatness
and injiniteness of m^rcy — that the most notorious
sinners have been pardoned and saved by it, and that
it is still offered in the Gospel to the vilest of sin-
ners ; and that the sins of a man can never hinder
God from loving his soul, and forgiving him when
he sincerely desires to repent and believe ; to lay be-
fore him, also, the infinite virtue of Christ's blood ;
and to put him in mind of the willingness and readi-
ness of the Redeemer to receive all sinners that
come to Him : and that it is the greatest dishonour
to God to despair of His mercy.

vn.

Let the friends of the sick read to them such por-
tions of the Holy Scriptures as the last three chap-
ters of Genesis ; the last chapter of Deuteronomy ;
the 17th chapter of the First Book of Kings ; the
2nd chapter of the Second Book of Kings ; the 14th
and 19th chapters of Job ; the 6th, 23rd, 25th, 30th,
38th, 41s:., 42nd, 49th, 51st, 71st, 73rd, 77th, 88th,
89th, 90th, lOSrd, 116th, 118th, 130th, 142nd, 144th
Psalms ; the 12th chapter of Ecclesiastes ; the 30th,
53rd, 54th and 55th chapters of Isaiah ; the last
three chapters of Luke ; the 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th
and 20th chapters of John ; the 8th chapter of Ro-
mans ; the 15th chapter of First Corinthians ; the
5th chapter of Second Corinthians ; the 4th of First

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Thessalonians ; the 11th and 12th of Hebrews ; and
the last three chapters of the Revelation.

VIIL

Let the friends of the sick jtray with them, and
fo' them. Frequently sick persons are so disquieted
with pain and trouble, that they are not well able
to pray for themselves, and therefore they have
more need of the prayers of others. Never did they
need our prayers so much as when they are called
to enter upon an unchangeable condition. Now
they are in the land of prayer, and it is now or ne-
ver that prayer is to be made for them. If the sick
person be a stranger to Christ, his friends should cry
to God to open his eyes, to save him from the pit
out of which there is no redemption, and to grant
him pardon and holiness through Christ Jesus. If
the sick person be a child of God, his friends may
pray — Lord, behold he whom Thou lovest is sick.
Lord pity him, comfort him; abate his distemper,
and relieve him from it, if it be Thy will ; if not,
grant him Thy gracious presence and safe comfort
through the Jordan of death, and a happy landing
in the Canaan of glory.

MISCELLANEOUS PRAYEES.

i: it

I ».:

FOR THE MINISTERS OF CHRIST.

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, the Chief Shep-
herd and Bishop of our souls, who, when
Thou didst ascend on high, and lead captivity cap-
tive, didst give gifts to men — some apostles, some
prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors
and teachers ; for the perfecting of the saints, for the
work of the ministry, and for the edifying of the
body of Christ — we beseech Thee graciously to look
upon all whom Thou dost call to minister Thy gos-
pel, and pour upon them Thy abundant blessing.
Greatly enrich them with spiritual gifts and endow-
ments, according to Thine infinite fulness and the
multiplied wants of Thy Church. Raise up sons of
thunder to awaken the careless; sons of consolation,
to comfort the mourners ; eloquent men, to convince
mightily the ignorant ; good men, full of the Holy
Ghost, that much j^eople may be added to the Lord ;
faithful men, like Timothy, naturally caring for the
state of their people ; and devout men, like Epa-

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phras, always labouring fervently for them in prayer.
And, Lord, uphold Thy ministers, and strengthen
them, that their faith fail not. Make them wise to
win souls. Endue their words with heavenly power ;
let them be like fire, burning away the dross, and
like the dew, strengthening, reviving, and refreshing
the hearts of Thy people. Send them help from
Thy sanctuary, and strengthen them out of Zion ;
so that Thy word may have free course and be glo-
rified in all the earth. Hear us for Thy name's sake.
Amen.

II.

BEFORE A MISSIONARY MEETING.

OLORD, we thank Thee for the written rev-
elation of Thy holy will. We bless Thee for
sending Thy Son to redeem us by His death. We
rejoice that He ever liveth to make intercession for
us. Through the merits of His atonement may our
sins be forgiven, and through His mediation may our
prayers be heard and answered. Send Thy Holy
Spirit to bear witness with our spirit that we are
Thy children, and enable us to walk all the day long
in the light of Thy countenance.

God, we pray for the whole world. O Thou
who wouldest have all men to be saved, and come to

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279

the knowledge of the truth, we Lloss Thee for Thy
love. Thou hast sent Thy Son to bo the Saviour of
the world, and committed to Thy servants the minis-
try of reconciliation, that they should go into all the
world, and preach to every creature that God was
in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself. Lord of
the harvest, raise up and send forth labourers into
Thy vineyard ; and let all nations hear of the won-
derful works of God.

We pray for all who are gone far hence to the
Gentiles. Preserve them in health. Keep them
from sin. Fit them for the discharge of every duty,
and make them eminently successful in all their la-
bours. May idolatry and superstition yield to the
light of Thy truth, and the knowledge of God fill
the earth. And in Thy gi-eat mercy watch over and
bless all who in distant lands, by the preaching of
the gospel, have been turned from darkness to light,
and from the power of Satan to God. Pour out I'hy
Spirit upon them; may they be filled with the
fruits of righteousness, and may their numbers be
increased.

May Thy blessing rest on all societies united for
the furtherance of Christ's gospel. May their ope-
rations be guided by the wisdom that is from above,
and may they be instrumental in spreading through
the world the knowledge of the Lord Jesus. We
pray for Thy gracious presence in the Missionary
meeting we expect to attend. May they who speak
be enabled so to speak that the hearers shall be

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Family Worship,

profited, t-ho interests of true religion promoted, and
Thy holy name glorified.

While we hear of the wants of others, make us in-
creasingly thankful for the mercies which we, by Thy
goodness, possess ; and while we hear of the wonder-
ful things which Thou doest in distant lands, lead
us to seek Thee, that Thou mayest work in our souls
all the good pleasure of Thy goodness, and crown the
work of faith with power. Make us faithful in the
improvement of the talents entinisted to us, that at
the last, when they shall come from the east and the
west, from the north and the south, and sit down in
the kingdom of God, we may not ourselves be cast
out. Save us while we live, and receive us when
we die, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Saviour.
Amen.

III.

FOR UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES.

OLORD, hear our supplications unto Thee in
behalf of all universities, colleges, and semi-
naries of sound and useful learning. Bless especially
those who are there preparing to be ministers and
missionaries, or to occupy important stations of trust
in the service of their country. We humbly beseech
Thee, very graciously to pour out Thy Spirit upon

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281

all teachers and professors of tlieso institutions, and
on all engaged in instruction. O grant sucli a large
measure of Thy grace to all connected with the col-
leges of our land, that there may continually go
forth from them, not only men qualified to serve
their country, but also able ministers of the New
Testament, taught by Thy Si)irit, and made faithful
stewards of the mysteries of Christ. Amen.

IV.

FOR A REVIVAL OF RELIGION.

WE beseech Thee, God, to revive Thine
own work in the midst of the days. We
lament that among Thy professing people, apathy
and indifference so largely prevail — that so many
have merely a name to live, but are in reality dead.
Hast Thou not promised, O God, to pour out Thy
Spirit upon all flesh, and to refresh Thine heri-
tage as with a plenteous rain ? "Wilt Thou not, then,
send forth Thy Spirit to enlighten the ignorant, to
quicken the dead, and to awaken those who are at
ease in Zion ? We rejoice to remember that on the
day of Pentecost Thou didst send Thy Spirit to give
efficacy to the preaching of the Gospel ; and we
know that Thou art still mighty to save, and that
Thy Spirit is not straitened. Let Thy S^ .iit now

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descend upon the congregations of Thy people, like
rain upon the mown grass, and like showers that
water the earth. May the careless be aroused, the
prayerless be constrained in tlie ngony of conscious
guilt to cry — Whatniust wedo to be saved? and may
they be enabled to look by faith to the Lord Jesus
Christ, in whom alone salvation can be found. May
those, also, who have in some measure tasted of Thy
goodness, be stirred up to gi-eater measures of zeal
and diligence in the divine life. Make them more
fervent in spirit, more earnest in prayer, more labo-
rious in their efforts towards the extension of Thy
Kingdom, and the salvation of perishing sinners.
Thus mav Zion arise, shake the dust from her neck,
and put on her beautiful garments; and may her
righteousness go forth like brightness, and her salva-
tion like a lamp that burneth. Hear and answer, for
the gracious Redeemer's sake. Amdn.

FOR PERSONS DEJECTED IN SPIRIT.

OTHOU who inhabitest the praises of eternity,
and dwellest also with those who are of an
humble and contrite spirit, to revive the spirit of
the humble and the heart of the contrite ones, wo
^(^inninnd to Tloc tlioso w1ir)so ,sr)ji],s ,ii'c cast down

crsi

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283

\(%

III!

and disquieted within them. Give them songs for
sighing, and tvrn their darkness into light. Give
them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning,
and the garments of praise for the spirit of heavi-
ness. So restoie to them the joy of Thy salvation,
that they may be enabled to say — although Thou
wast angry with us, yet Thine anger is turned
away, and now Thou comfortest us ; behold God is
become oui* salvation ; v?e will trust, and not be
afraid. We rejoice to know that Christ Jesus has
been anointed to preach good tidings to the meek,
and bind up the broken-hearted. May He say to the
disquieted in soul — Be of good cheer ; and grant to
them the peace that passeth all understanding, and
the joy which is unspeakable and full of glory. And
grant, Lord, thatnot only may the disquieted in soul
be brought up out of the deep pit, and have a new
song put into their m.ouths ; but may they hence-
forth be permitted to walk in the light of Thy coun-
tenance, in their journey through life, and finally
may they be admitted into the better land where
God shall wipe away all tears from every eye.
Arrun,

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Family Wc^skip,

VI.
FOR PERSONS DISEASED IN MIND.

OGOD, who hast taught us in Thy holy word
that there is a spirit in man, and that it is Thy
inspiration which giveth understanding, we praise
Thee, not only for that measure of bodily health
which we enjoy, but that we are now permitted to
come to Thee in our right mind. We desire to re-
member before Thee all who are suffering from men-
tal unsoundness. Pity and relieve them, God ;
and while, by reason of disease, they are unable to
help and preserve themselves, in the greatness of Thy
mercy be Thou, the Lord God, their keeper and pre-
server. Preserve them from all danger, and suffer
them not to do themselves any harm. O, Lord Jesus
Christ, who in the days of Thy humiliation didst
show great compassion to those who were diseased
in mind, and didst often exert Thy power for their
deliverance, put forth now Thy wonder-working
hand, and restore to their right mind those in whom
reason has been dethroned. May they again dis-
charge the duties of life, enjoy the comforts of
friendship, and engage in the exercises of Thy wor-
ship and service. And while disease continues, may
theSun of Righteousness shed some beams of light and
peace across the gloom and distraction by which they
are surrounded and oppressed, and may this heavy
calamity be so sanctified by Thy grace, that by means

Family Worship.

285

of it their hearts may be made better. We i)ray
that we ourselves may be deeply impressed with a
sense of our entire dependence on Thy will. Thou
hast granted us life and favour, and Thy visitation
hath preserved our spirits. May we glorify Thee
with our bodies and spirits, which are Thine. We
beseech Thee to hear us, God, for the sake of Jesus
Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen.

VII.

lii

FOR PRISONERS.

WE adore Thy goodness, God, in the insti-
tution of civil government ; and we give
Thee thanks for the righteous administration of holy
laws, by which our life and property are protected
from blood-thirsty and wicked men. We praise
Thee that though it is right that the Magistrate
should not bear the sword in vain, but that crime
should be punished ; yet even those who have ren-
dered themselves the outcasts of society, if they seek
Thee with a contrite spirit, may find forgiveness of
all their sins, through the precious blood of Christ
our Redeemer. Have mercy upon all imprisoned
for their evil doings. Give them grace in the day
of adversity to consider their ways ; may they hum-
ble themselves under Thy mighty hand, and may the

286

Family [V or ship.

valley of trouble be to them as the door of hope. If
any suffer wrongfully, help them to trust in Thy un-
failing wisdom and truth ; and when it shall seem
good to Thee, O Lord, bring forth their righteous-
ness as the light, and their innocency as the noon-
day. If any are justly sentenced to die, and are
about to be cut off in the midst of their years,
give them repentance unto life, and faith whereby
they may be saved. May they be led, in deep humi-
liation and sorrow, to Him that justifieth- the un-
godly. We beseech Thee, blessed Saviour, who
in Thy wonderful mercy, wast made a curse for us,
to save them, and deliver them from the bitter pains
of eternal death ; and, like the thief on the cross,
may they pass into the paradise of God. May our
prayers be heard and answered through the merits
and intercession of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

VIIL

BEFORE MEAT.

OLORD our God, in Thee we live and move
and have our being. Thou spreadest our
table, and fillest our cu] ), and comfortest us with the
gifts of Thy bounty from day to day. We own our
dependence upon Thee. Sanctify Thy good crea-
tures to our use, and give us grace to receive them

Family Worship,

287

soberly and thankfully, and to eat and drink, not to
ourselves, but to Thy glory, through Jesus Christ,
our blessed Lord and Saviour. Amen,

IX
AFTER MEAT.

WE thank Thee, Father, Lord of heaven and
earth, for all the gifts both of Thy provi-
dence and of Thy grace ; for those blessings which
relate to the life which now is, and that to come ;
and especially for Thy goodness at this time. Perfect,
O God, that which concerns us ; nourish our souls
with the bread of life, and let us be of those that
shall eat bread in the Kingdom of our Father, for
Christ Jesus 's sake, our Lord and Saviour. Amen.

THE LORD'S PRAYER.

OUR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be
Thy name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be
done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day
our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we
forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil : For Thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory, for ever. -4mew.

I?;.

288 Familii Won^hip.

xr.

THK J]LESSTNO.

f^l^HK grace of tlic Lord Jesii.s (Jlirist, and the
lovo of Cod, and liic eommuniou of tlic ridlv
<-dio,st, l.c with you all. Amen.