for thy providential care and protection during the night season. O Lord, keep us for ever under thy protecting care, that so, our steps may be ordered by Thee. May we, by thy teaching, follow Thee, our glorious example, and become meek and lowly of heart, for "Thou wast meek and lowly who art the Most High and Eternal God." Teach us still to follow Thee in the way that leads to thy kingdom, the peace of which passeth all understanding, and the joys thereof increase and multiply for ever. May we ever be solemnly impressed with the teaching of thy Word, in which Thou hast said, that "our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." Our iniquities have indeed separated us from Thee, and our sins have hid thy face from us; but, O Lord, merciful and gracious, long-suffering and abundant in goodness and truth, we know and feel that "thy hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither is thine ear heavy, that it cannot hear." In mercy look down from heaven, thy dwelling-place, and visit and save thy people.
Gracious Father, help us by thy Spirit to shun all evils of thought and practice, as sins against Thee; that so thy presence may this day, in our walk and conversation, surround our path. Grant, O Lord, that this day's labour may be healthful to our bodies, and refreshing to our souls. May a faithful and strict discharge of our various duties of life prepare us for the joys, the blessings, and devotions of the forthcoming day of rest: may it prove to all a day of spiritual rest and refreshment; may we feel thy presence, and perceive Thee, Thou Great Shepherd of Israel, in the midst, feeding thy flock with the Bread
