There have been many prayers we have lifted since the very first moment we learned how to pray. Our first prayers were for ourselves, as we sought God’s mercy to erase our sins. And He listened to us. When He wiped away our transgressions like a passing cloud, we had many prayers we offered for ourselves. But now, we must pray for the holy grace—grace that preserves and protects—seeking a vital assurance for our faith, a comforting fulfillment of His promise, deliverance in times of trial, help in moments of labor, and rescue in days of distress.
We were compelled to turn to God for our souls, like beggars asking for everything. So, bear witness, O children of God, to your inability to obtain anything for your souls from any other source. Every piece of bread you have eaten has come down from heaven, and every drop of water you have drunk has flowed from the living Rock, the Lord Jesus Christ. Your soul has not become rich of its own accord; rather, it has always depended on the Lord’s daily gifts. Thus, your prayers have continually risen to heaven, seeking the various and boundless spiritual blessings.
Your needs were many, and so abundant and limitless provisions were given to you. Your prayers were as numerous and diverse as the countless graces bestowed upon you. Is this not reason enough for you to say, “I love the Lord, because He hears my voice and my supplications”? For just as numerous as your requests and prayers have been, so too have the Lord’s answers to them. He listened to you in your day of distress, strengthening and supporting you—even when you grieved Him with your fear and doubt before the throne of mercy.
Remember this, and let gratitude fill your heart for the Lord, who has graciously listened to your weak and humble prayers.
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”
