By
DR. JOHN HABERMANN.
Together With
Confessional, Communion, and Other
Prayers and Hymns for Mornings
and Evenings, and
Other Occasions
Done in English
By
EMIL H. RAUSCH.
Editor Lutheran Herald
Chicago, Illinois.
WARTBURG PUBLISHING HOUSE.
This little manual of prayers herewith offered to English speaking Christians in their own language, has long been one of the treasures of the German people. With the exception of a few prayers, as hereinafter noted, it was originally written by one of God’s noblemen, by one who “lived and moved and had his being” in the things of the Kingdom of God. Dr. John Habermann (known also as Avenarius, Latinized form of Habermann) died 1590 as superintendent at Zeitz, was a famous preacher and a distinguished scholar of his day. He was noted for his profound knowledge of oriental languages especially of the Hebrew. Still it is not this but the fact of his little prayer book that has endeared him to his fellow Christians. And this manual of prayers is the mature product of an inner life rich in the grace of God. On every page it bears the stamp of one for whom the communion with the eternal Father in heaven through the faith in Jesus Christ, the Savior, is a blessed reality. Nothing more natural therefore also than that he should “live and move and have his being” in the language of the Word of God. And this is quite apparent in his prayer language. God’s Word give him the terms to express his thoughts. Especially the Psalter, the prayer and hymn book of Israel, proves a veritable thesaurus of prayer terms and of these he makes a copious use.
The present little volume presents the Englished edition of “Wachet und Betet,” as issued by the Synod of Iowa and other States. Owing to the exigencies of the times, with the great world war raging in all its fury, a special set of prayers for times of war has been added by the translator, in the hope that they will add to the usefulness of the book. These are found on pages 131-138. The hymns as far as possible are given in the form as found in the new Common Service Book with Hymnal. Many of them however are new translations that here appear in print for the first time. For these we are indebted especially to Prof. Alfred Ramsey of the Lutheran Theological Seminary, Maywood, Chicago, and the Rev. H. Brueckner of Iowa City, Iowa, a fact which is here gratefully acknowledged.
The labor of clothing these little gems of prayer into the language of the land has been done as a labor of love, albeit the stress of other work often precluded the continued effort. The work was done a bit at a time. This little volume is herewith issued with the fervent hope and prayer, that it may long continue on its course of blessing, and lead many lives into the closer communion with God, through Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria!
E. H. R.
Waverly, Iowa, during the blessed season of Epiphany, 1918.
Arise, dear soul, and carefully reflect who He is with whom thou speakest and before whom thou standest when thou prayest. Behold, thou speakest with God, thy Maker, and standest in the presence of Him, the eternal Majesty, whom thousand times thousand holy angels and arch-angels attend. Therefore, O Christian, enter thou into the closet of thy soul, and beware, lest thou failest to put from thee all sluggishness of heart, and liftest up to thy God a countenance free from blame. Then wilt thou delight in the Lord and have power with Him, and prevail. Yea, thou wilt conquer the unconquerable God and bear away the blessing through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Lord bless thee, and keep thee.
The Lord make His face to shine upon thee,
and be gracious unto thee.
The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee,
and give thee peace. Amen.
Lord, our Heavenly Father, Eternal God! Blessed be Thy divine power and might; magnified Thy fathomless goodness and mercy; praised Thine eternal wisdom and truth. For Thou hast shielded me with Thy hand against the perils of this night, and hast suffered me to rest and slumber in peace under the shadow of Thy wings. Thou hast kept and safeguarded me with a father’s care against the Evil One and all his wicked designs and purposes. Therefore, I magnify Thy goodness and the wonders which Thou doest for the children of men. I will exalt Thee in the congregation. Thy praise shall evermore be in my mouth. My soul shall bless Thee, O my Lord, all that is within me shall bless Thy holy name, and nevermore will I forget Thy benefits. May the praises of my lips, which in singleness of heart I bring before Thee at this early hour, be acceptable in Thy sight. I call upon Thee with all my heart to preserve me this day against all danger of body and soul. May Thy holy angels have charge over me and keep me in all my ways. Encompass me with Thy shield and lead me on the paths of Thy commandments that, like the children of light, I may be blameless in Thy service, to Thy good pleasure. Stay the Evil One and all wickedness of this world. Restrain mine own flesh and blood that I be not overcome by them. Lead me with Thy Holy Spirit that I attempt, do, speak, or think nothing except what is well-pleasing in Thy sight and conducive to the glory of Thy divine Majesty. Behold, O God, I consecrate and dedicate myself entirely to Thy holy will, with body and soul, all my powers and abilities, inwardly and outwardly. Make me a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto Thee, so that I may render Thee a reasonable and pleasing service. Therefore, Most Holy Father, Almighty God, let me be wholly Thine. Govern Thou my heart and soul, and all my emotions that I know and understand none but Thee. O Lord, in the morning wilt Thou hear my voice. Early will I seek Thee and look up to Thee. Early will I praise Thee, and will not cease when evening comes. Through Jesus Christ. Amen.
God, Who madest earth and heaven,—
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,
Who the day and night hast given,
Sun and moon, and starry host,
Thou Whose mighty hand sustains
Earth and all that it contains;
Praise to Thee my soul shall render,
Who this night has guarded me,
My omnipotent Defender,
Who from ill doth set me free;
Free from danger, anguish, woe,
Free from the infernal foe.
Let the night of my transgression
With night’s darkness pass away;
Jesus, into Thy possession
I resign myself to-day.
In Thy wounds I find relief
From my greatest sin and grief.
Let my life and conversation
Be directed by Thy Word;
Lord, Thy constant preservation
To Thy erring child afford.
Nowhere but alone in Thee
From all harm can I be free.
Wholly to Thy blest protection
I commit my heart and mind;
Mighty God! to Thy direction
Wholly may I be resigned.
Lord, my Shield, my Light divine,
O accept, and own me Thine.
Eternal God, Merciful Father, I lift up my hands unto Thee as an evening sacrifice, and render Thee most hearty thanks, praise, and glory, that Thou hast protected me this day and all the days of my life from all evil and calamity, and through the ministrations of Thy holy angels hast graciously guarded me against the Evil One. I pray Thee to forgive me all my sins, wherever I have done wrong. Surround me this night with Thy holy angels. May thou compass me round and cast a trench about me, that I may escape the snares and evil cunning of the enemy. I commend myself to Thy goodness and mercy. Protect me with Thine outstretched arm; for from my heart do I pant after Thee in the nightwatches, and with my spirit within me do I watch for Thee at all times. I wait upon Thy goodness, and my soul trusts in Thee, the living God, for Thou art my refuge and my Savior. Behold, O Lord, whether we sleep or wake, we are Thine: whether we live or die, Thou art our God who hast called us into being. Therefore, I cry unto Thee: let Thy grace be not far from me. Shelter me with Thy shield. Keep me, that I lie in quiet, sleep in peace, and awake again in health. Hide me in Thy pavilion in the time of trouble, in the secret of Thy tabernacle hide me, set me upon the rock, and I will fear no evil. 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. Grant me grace, that though my body sleep, my soul may ever wake for Thee, that I may ever have Thee in my heart and before my mind, and be not overcome by the night of sin. Keep me from all wicked and evil dreams, from restless wakings and useless anxieties, from depraved and hurtful thoughts, from all grief. My Lord and God, into Thy gracious care do I commend my body and soul, my brothers and sisters, and all my kin and loved ones. May it please Thee, O Lord, to save us, and turn not Thy mercy from us. May Thy grace and fidelity protect us alway. Cover us this night with Thy goodness, and encompass us with Thy mercy, that we be safe-guarded in body and soul. Amen.
O Christ, who art the sun-lit day,
Before Thee night must flee away,
Thou dost reflect the Father’s light
And teachest us His will aright.
Dear Lord, as night is drawing near,
Fill Thou our hearts with light and cheer,
Let us securely rest in Thee
And from the foe’s attacks stay free.
And while our eyes in slumber close,
Grant that our hearts may find repose;
But let them be to Thee awake
And of Thy saving grace partake.
Protect us from the wily foe
Who seeks to harm our souls, we know.
Be Thou our shield, our staff, and stay,
Lord Jesus Christ, for this we pray.
For Thou hast made us, Lord, Thine own,
We as Thy heritage are known.
Thy blood was shed, that we might be
The Father’s precious gift to Thee.
So let Thy holy angel stay
Around us both by night and day.
Place Thou a watch beside our bed,
And guardian angels overhead.
Thus in Thy name we fall asleep,
While angels o’er us watch must keep.
To Thee, O Holy One in Three,
Be praise to all eternity.
O Thou Eternal and Merciful God! Thou hast commanded Thy people in Thy law each morning to offer Thee a burnt offering, thereby to praise and thank Thee for Thy merciful protection: thus I too would bring unto Thee my offering of praise, that is the fruit of my lips, and magnify Thy holy name. For by Thy grace and mercy Thou hast kept me this night from all evil and harm in body and soul, and hast graciously protected me. If Thou hadst not been my shield and my help, manifold calamities would have engulfed me, and I could not have risen in health and safety. Therefore, I thank Thee for Thy protection. But I continue to call to Thee from the depths of my heart, and my supplication ascends to Thee in the early hour. Early do I seek Thy countenance and pray Thee to safeguard me and mine from the wiles and power of the devil, from sin and disgrace and all wickedness. Visit Thou me in this early hour with Thy grace, as without Thee I can do nothing, and grant that I may this day begin all my work in Thy name and end it joyously, to the glory of Thy divine majesty and the betterment of my neighbor. Preserve my soul, mind, reason, senses, and thoughts, all that I do and leave undone, that the prince of darkness do me no injury. Safeguard me against the destruction that wasteth at noonday. Defend me against mine enemies that neither secretly nor openly they harm or injure me with their craft and cunning, violence or malice. O God, Father and Lord of my life, shield me from all impurity and disorderly conduct. Keep me from all intemperance and unchastity, and turn from me shameless thoughts. Help me by Thy grace to pluck out the eye that offends me and cast it away, and renounce all wicked and impure desires of the heart. Grant whatever is pleasing to Thee and useful to me, that I may serve Thee in the true faith. Look upon me with the eyes of Thy mercy, Thou Savior of the world, and enlighten my heart and eyes, that I may walk in the light of Thy grace, which rises above me, and never lose Thee, the Eternal Light. Amen.
Abide with grace unbounded,
Lord Jesus, with us still,
That Satan’s craft confounded
May no more work us ill.
Abide with us, dear Savior,
Both with and in Thy Word:
To us both now and ever
Thy saving health afford.
Abide with all Thy brightness,
Thou brightest Light of all;
And lest we stray from rightness,
Make Thou Thy truth our wall.
Abide with us and bless us,
Thou Lord whose riches ’bide;
With growing grace possess us
And all things best provide.
Abide with Thy protection,
Great Captain, clothed with might;
O’ercome our world affection
And vanquish Satan’s spite.
Abide with care untiring,
Our God and Lord indeed;
All steadfastness inspiring,
Help, Lord, our every need.
O Thou Mighty and Everlasting God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, I thank Thee that by Thy divine power Thou hast this day preserved me from all injury and danger of body and life. I owe it to Thy mercy alone that Thou didst protect me on all my paths. I pray Thee to forgive me all my sins which I have committed against Thee, and this night and during our entire lives mercifully to defend me and my loved ones against all sorrow and anxiety, and against the craft and power of the devil, wherewith day and night he seeks to ensnare us. Preserve us from the deadly pestilence that walketh in the darkness, and deliver us from the snare of the enemy. Protect us from the temptation and terror of Satan, from all evils of body and soul. For Thou art our strong fortress, our sword and buckler. All our hope and trust rests in Thee. Therefore, O faithful God, may Thine eyes be upon us and we be safeguarded this night against all violence and assault of the enemy. Be Thou our keeper and protector. Encompass us with Thy shelter, for in Thee is our salvation. Unto Thee only, from whom cometh my help, do I lift up mine eyes. My help cometh from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hands of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that He have mercy upon us. Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy, for we are poor and needy. Lift upon me the light of Thy countenance lest I sleep the sleep of death. Amen.
Now under night’s dark shadow
Rest woodland, field, and meadow,
The world in slumber lies.
But thou, my soul, awake thee,
To song and prayer betake thee,
Give praise to Him who rules the skies.
The sun’s fair light hath vanished,
The night its rays hath banished,
The night, the foe of day.
’Tis well: my heart containeth
A sun whose light ne’er waneth,
Since Jesus there holds constant sway.
The reign of day is over,
And golden stars now cover
The canopy so blue.
Thus I shall shine in heaven,
Where golden crowns are given
To all who faithful stay and true.
My body is divested
Of garments that have rested
Upon its form of clay.
Thus I at heaven’s portal
Shall lose all that is mortal
And with the Lord forever stay.
Head, feet, and hands are taking
Sweet rest from toil and waking,
Released from ev’ry pain.
O heart of mine, why borrow
The troubles of tomorrow?
Thou rest from sin and woe shalt gain.
Ye members weak and tired,
By joy no more inspired,
Betake yourselves to bed.
The time and hour for sleeping
In God’s own faithful keeping
Will come when you are cold and dead.
My tired eyes are closing,
And while I am reposing,
Where doth my soul remain?
To Thee be it commended
Until the night is ended,
Let me Thy gracious favor gain.
Lord Jesus, who dost love me,
Spread both Thy wings above me,
Thus shielding me from harm.
If Satan should draw near me,
Let angels come to cheer me
And so the wily foe disarm.
My loved ones, rest securely,
Since God will guard you surely
From pain and perils sore.
May you in safety slumber,
While angels without number
Attend you now and evermore.
Blessed be God, the maker of heaven and earth, blessed be the Lord, who only doeth wondrous things, and blessed be His glorious name for ever who hath made both day and night through His glorious wisdom, and so ruled, that while the earth remaineth, they shall not cease, that man may rest by night, and proceed again to his labors by day. O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! In wisdom hast Thou made them all: the earth is full of Thy riches. For such Thy gifts we should thank Thee ere the sun rises, and come into Thy presence when the light breaks forth. Therefore I bless Thee now also, for Thou hast suffered me securely to rest and sleep this night, and again awakened me to the joy of living. Thou hast mercifully sheltered me from the assaults and malice of enemies. I supplicate Thy grace: grant that my soul may repose in Thy hands, my body continue in health according to Thy good pleasure, and be kept from all injury and peril. Be Thou my mighty protection and strong stay, a defence from heat, and my cover from the sun at noon, my preservation from stumbling, and my help from falling, that no harm may come unto me. O Merciful God, knowing the hour is come to awaken out of the sleep of sin and iniquity, for now is our salvation so near, the night is far spent, the day is at hand: so help us to cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armour of light, that we may walk honestly as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying, but putting on the Lord Jesus Christ in the true faith and a Christian conduct. Thus awaken us each morning. Open Thou my ears that I may hear Thy holy Word with a believing heart and keep the same in my memory. Let my ears incline to the entreaties and prayers of the needy, not to forsake them in their distress. And when in my distress I cry unto Thee, hear Thou the voice of my supplications, and despise not my sighings in the hour of death. Let my prayers come before Thee early. Incline Thine ears to my entreaties. Satisfy us early with Thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Amen.
Awake, my heart, rejoicing,
Thy Maker’s praises voicing,—
The Giver, good gifts sending;
Their Shield, His folk defending.
All night while darkness ’bound me
In deepest gloom around me,
By Satan craved while sleeping
God had me in His keeping.
Thou spak’st me words endearing;
Sleep now, my child, unfearing;
Sleep well, night’s terrors spurning;
Thou’lt see the sun returning.
Thy word performed, now waking,
I see the bright dawn breaking,
Safe kept from ills unnumbered
While ’neath Thy care I slumbered.
An off’ring Thou desirest.
Behold what Thou requirest.
Nor lamb nor incense bringing,
I come with prayer and singing.
Nor wilt Thou now despise them,
But in Thy heart wilt prize them,
Well knowing, yea, and surely
My best I offer purely.
Approve my works when shown Thee.
Help Thou good councils only;
Beginning, middle, closing,
Lord, for the best disposing.
With blessings guard me waking,
My heart Thy dwelling making,
And with Thy Word, Lord, feed me
Whilst heavenward Thou dost lead me.
Lord, Merciful God, Holy Father, in the daytime do I cry unto Thee with my voice, in my distress I call upon Thee, and at eventime I remember Thy goodness and mercy, which Thou hast wrought for me. And especially do I magnify Thee now, that purely out of fatherly grace and mercy, without any merit or worthiness on my part, Thou hast this day preserved me from all harm and danger and kept me from sudden death. Therefore do I now and at all times render unto Thee praise and thanksgiving, and pray Thee, for the sake of the bitter sufferings of Jesus Christ, to forgive me wherever I have sinned against Thee this day. Mercifully protect me during the night against my adversary, the devil, and against the fears and terrors of the night. Suffer me to rest without anxieties and worries, and may the eyes of my faith ever behold the lustre of Thy countenance even during the shades of night. For Thou art that shining and true light, which dispels all darkness that surrounds us. Thou, O Lord, art ever with me. Thou art my rock, and my fortress, my deliverer, my strength, in whom I will trust, my buckler, the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Lord, my God, at eventime do I lift up my hands unto Thee. Come unto me as the latter rains that make the earth fruitful. Abide with us, for the day is far spent and in the darkness there is none to defend us save Thou alone, our God. Hasten to uphold us. Defend us this night, lest our souls fall into the sleep of sin and our bodies be overcome with evil. Awake us again in due time, and make us to hear joy and peace, for we love Thy word and Thy testimonies, which are the delight of our souls. May our ears be saved from all messages of sorrow, and all anguish be turned from our souls; for Thou canst prosper all that liveth, and fill my life with Thy blessing; in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Now God be with us, for the night is closing;
The light and darkness are of His disposing;
And ’neath His shadow here to rest we yield us,
For He will shield us.
Let evil thoughts and spirits flee before us;
Till morning cometh, watch, O Master, o’er us;
In soul and body Thou from harm defend us,
Thine angels send us.
Let holy thoughts be ours when sleep o’ertakes us;
Our earliest thoughts be Thine when morning wakes us;
All day serve Thee, in all that we are doing
Thy praise pursuing.
As Thy beloved, soothe the sick and weeping,
And bid the prisoner lose his griefs in sleeping;
Widows and orphans, we to Thee commend them;
Do Thou befriend them.
We have no refuge, none on earth to aid us,
Save Thee, O Father, Who Thine own hast made us;
But Thy dear presence will not leave them lonely,
Who seek Thee only.
Father, Thy name be praised, Thy kingdom given;
Thy will be done on earth as ’tis in heaven;
Keep us in life, forgive our sins, deliver
Us now and ever.
Almighty, All-gracious God! All Thy creatures should praise and glorify Thee. The birds under the heavens magnify Thee with lovely songs early in the morning as their Lord and Maker. So will I too heartily thank Thee, that Thou hast preserved me under Thy shelter and protection during the night now past, and all my life even to the present hour, and awakening me from the sleep of the darkness of this night, hast suffered me to arise again in health and joy. I pray Thee for the sake of the saving resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, that Thou wouldst ever keep me together with all my loved ones from all danger and evil. O Lord, save Thy people, and bless Thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever. Fill me also at this early hour with Thy grace, that I may pass this day rejoicing in Thy commandments, and free from mortal sin. Let me experience Thy grace as a dew from the womb of the morning, and as the refreshing moisture that diffuses at the break of day, making the land fruitful. Thou wouldest spread Thy goodness over me, that I may gladly and zealously do Thy will. Govern me with Thy Holy Spirit that I may serve Thee in righteousness and holiness of truth, well pleasing in Thy sight. Guard me that I sin not against Thee, nor defile my conscience with carnal lusts that militate against the soul. Keep my tongue from evil, and my lips from speaking guile. Foolish talking or jesting, unbecoming of Christians, be ever far removed from me. Grant, that I offend none with my lips, nor backbite, judge nor condemn, defame nor vilify. O that I might put a lock to my lips and seal them with a strong seal, that they bring me not to naught, nor my tongue destroy me. Give me grace that I may know my shortcomings and correct them, and not fall into Thy righteous judgment and condemnation. Grant my prayer, O Eternal God, for the sake of Thy dear Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Dayspring of Eternity,
Light from endless Light proceeding,
Let Thy beams upon us shine
As the shadows are receding;
And dispel by Thy great might
Our dark night.
As the soft refreshing dew
Falls upon the drooping flower,
So our fainting hearts renew
By Thy Spirit’s quickening power;
Ne’er Thy bounteous grace withhold
From Thy fold.
Let the glow of Thy pure love
All our icy coldness banish;
In the radiance from above
May our doubts and fears all vanish,
That ere dying we may be
Found in Thee.
O Thou glorious Sun of grace,
May Thy light be ne’er denied us!
Till we reach the heavenly place
Shine upon our way to guide us,
That at last among the blest
We may rest.
Most Holy Trinity, One in essence, Three in person, who art my life, salvation, and eternal joy, I praise and thank Thee with mouth and heart that Thou hast so graciously protected me throughout this day. I pray Thy divine goodness to cover up all my shortcomings, and especially where this day, with my tongue, with vain and unprofitable words, slander or otherwise, I have sinned against Thee and Thy holy commandments. According to Thy name, O God, so is Thy praise unto the ends of the earth: Thy right hand is full of righteousness. Therefore I commend my body and my soul into Thy hands. Thy divine Majesty bless me; Thy holy Trinity shelter me; Thy eternal Unity preserve me. May Thy unbounded mercy protect me; Thy inexpressible benevolence defend me, the sublime truth of God cover me; profound knowledge of Christ strengthen me; the unfathomable goodness of the Lord keep me. The grace of the Father govern me; the wisdom of the Son refresh me; the power of the Holy Spirit enlighten me. My Creator aid me, my Redeemer quicken me, my Comforter abide with me. The Lord bless me and keep me. The Lord make His face shine upon me and be gracious unto me. The Lord lift up His countenance upon me and give me peace. The protection and blessing of the one and eternal Godhead be between me and all mine enemies, visible and invisible, today and always, that they may not approach nor injure me. As the pillar of the cloud went between the army of the Egyptians and the army of Israel, so that they could not come together, and no harm befall the children of Israel, so mayest Thou be a pillar of fire and a wall of separation between me and mine enemies, that no harm come over me. Keep me also in my last hour. When mine eyes no longer see, mine ears no longer hear, my tongue no longer speak, be Thou with me, O blessed Trinity, that the Evil One have no power over me. Amen.
Shepherd never sleeping,
In Thy gracious keeping
I have been today.
Thou art my Defender,
So in mercy tender
Come and with me stay;
All this night
Keep me in sight,
Send Thine angels to attend me
And protection lend me.
While I lie and slumber,
Let Thine hosts outnumber
All my raging foes.
Be of grace the Giver,
And Thy child deliver
From guilt’s painful throes.
For Thy Son
My soul hath won;
By His wounds, so sorely stricken,
He my heart doth quicken.
Shield Thou from all danger
Ev’ry lonely stranger
And my dear ones, too.
Tenderly embrace us
And with mercy grace us,
Be our Father true.
Thou with me
And I with Thee,
Thus shall I, mine eyelids closing,
Be in peace reposing.
Close the door behind us,
Let no evil find us,
Keep all ills away.
Be our shield and cover,
Let Thine angels hover
O’er us now, we pray.
By sweet rest
Let us be blest,
Ev’ry fear of Satan’s raging
In our hearts assuaging.
What if death should take me
And no light awake me
From my sleep and rest?
If Thou hast intended
That my life be ended,
Let Thy name be blest;
As for me,
I yield to Thee.
In the wounds of Jesus lying,
I am daily dying.
By no cares encumbered,
Though my hours be numbered,
I now fall asleep.
All to Thee commending
Who Thine hosts are sending
Watch o’er me to keep.
Through the night
Be my delight,
And if I should see the morrow,
Thou wilt cure all sorrow.
Jesus Christ, Thou art the eternal light, which dispelleth the darkness of night and the shadow of death: I magnify Thy name, I glorify and thank Thee. For Thou hast so graciously kept me during this night, and hast brought me out of the darkness to the light of day. Thou hast shielded me against the terrors of the night, the snares of the devil, the noisome pestilence, that walketh in the darkness, manifold illness and disease. Thou hast guarded and watched over my soul, even as the shepherd watches over his flock. And all that I possess is kept from harm through Thy great mercy. Praise and thanks be said unto Thee for Thy gracious protection and all Thy gifts. I will speak of Thy power and magnify Thy goodness, when the day breaks. For Thou art my refuge, my strong tower, my present help, my faithful God, in whom I trust. Thou makest glad my heart and my countenance rejoiceth. I pray Thee, for the sake of Thy holy birth and incarnation, suffer Thy grace to rise in my heart and break forth even as the beauty of the morning, and come over me as the early rain. Illumine me with Thy radiance, and be Thou the light of my heart, for Thou art the right day star and the true light, that lighteth men to the eternal life. Be merciful unto me, O Lord, for in Thee do I put my trust. My soul waiteth for Thee, more than they that watch for the morning, yea more than they that watch for the morning. Be Thou mine arm in the morning, my salvation also in the time of trouble. Protect me in body and soul, that no evil befall me and no plague come nigh unto my dwelling. Keep from me all wicked spirits. Defend me from evildoers. Stand up for me against the workers of iniquity and shield me, that the hands of mine adversaries may not touch me. O Lord, our God, establish Thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish Thou it, and strengthen our hands, and teach us that we may keep Thy commandments and sin not against Thee this day. Grant us this for the sake of Thy mercy, which endureth for ever and ever. Amen.
Awake, my soul; the rising sun
Dispels the night of mourning;
Awake, with songs of praises run
To greet the Lord returning.
He burst the gates of death today
And left the gloomy grave for aye
While all the world rejoices.
Arise, my soul, from sin and death,
To thee new life is given;
Arise and run the race of faith;
Fix thy desires on heaven
Where Jesus, thy Redeemer reigns,
And seek the things that it contains,
If thou with Him be risen.
Art thou distressed by weight of care?
Thy Savior will remove it.
Believing, thou with joy canst bear
Thy cross and learn to love it.
Cast all thy burden on the Lord;
Fear not; for He will help afford,
For now He hath arisen.
Now Judah’s Lion, true and tried,
The victory obtaineth;
The Lamb of God, the Crucified,
For us salvation gaineth,
And giveth righteousness and life;
For after all the dreadful strife,
O’er every foe He triumphs.
Then up, my soul, begin the fight,
For Christ, the Victor, leadeth.
He arms thee with a victor’s might;
With Him thy cause succeedeth.
Now thou can’st rise and live anew
And righteousness and peace pursue
And be a faithful servant.
Fear not the angry jaws of hell,
Nor world, nor death, nor devil.
Thy Savior lives and all is well,
Though sore has been His travail.
A Victor crowned, He as a Friend
The mean and feeble doth attend,
And therefore thou shalt conquer.
Ah, Lord, whom death could not defile,
Who from the dead hast risen,
Free us from Satan’s might and guile
And save us from his prison.
O grant, that, as one body, we
May enter that new life in Thee
Which Thou for us hast gotten.
Praise be to Thee, O God, our Father, through Jesus Christ in the Holy Ghost, one, eternal God, who through Thy manifold compassion hast kept me this day, a poor sinner and miserable creature, from the fiery darts of Satan that fly by day, from the destruction that wasteth at noonday, and hast graciously protected me from a sudden and evil death. Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and Thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds. Thou art gracious and merciful, and all Thine acts are glorious. I pray Thee, O merciful God, graciously to forgive me all that I have done against Thee this day, in thought, word, or deed. Turn Thy mercy toward me, that I may slumber and rest during this coming night, and that I may never turn from Thee, who art the eternal rest. Suffer me ever to abide in Thee in the true faith, and safely to sojourn under Thy protection, so that the enemy may never come nigh unto me, nor do me injury. Lord, Thou art my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Thou art the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? My heart trusteth in Thee, and I am helped. Thou art my strength and my great shield. Thy right hand strengtheneth me. Thy right hand gladdeneth my heart, and in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge. Behold, my God, in the daytime do I cry unto Thee, and Thou hearest me, and in the night season I am not silent, and Thou answereth my prayer. I remember Thee on my bed, and meditate on Thee in the night watches, because Thou hast been my help. Therefore in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice. My soul cleaves unto Thee, for Thy right hand defends me. When darkness comes over me, then Thou, O Lord, art my light and my salvation. O gracious God, vouchsafe unto me Thy grace, so that when that last hour cometh, and I lay me down on my deathbed for the eternal rest, through Thy help, in the true faith, in all confidence and trust, I may happily fall asleep for the eternal life. Meanwhile keep me in Thee, that I may ever watch and pass my days in all sobriety and moderation, and be found in Christian readiness, since I can not know the hour when Thou comest, O God, to call me hence, so that I may be worthy to stand before the Son of Man, and be not put to shame; who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, world without end. Amen.
Now in Jesus’ wounds reposing,
I my tired eyes am closing.
For His love and pardoning grace
Are my only resting place.
Through the day His mercy holds me,
And by night His arm enfolds me.
Of Thy strong protection sure,
Jesus, I shall rest secure.
Blessed be God, my Maker! Blessed be God, my Savior! Blessed be God, my Comforter! Who giveth unto me my health, my life, and every blessing; my very present help and my protection. Thou hast kept me according to Thy great and most blessed compassion during this night now past against the onslaughts of Satan, and preserved me in health. I beseech Thee, Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, take me this day also into Thy divine protection, and shield me that no evil may assail my life. For into Thy hands do I this day and all days commend my body and soul, my thoughts, words, and deeds, all that I do or leave undone, my going out and my coming in, my walks and ways, my rising up and my lying down, my will and counsel, my thoughts and desires, my faith and profession, the end of my life, the day and hour of my death, my passing away and my resurrection. O Lord God, do Thou with me as Thou wilt: for Thou knowest what serves best Thy glory and my salvation. Keep me in Thy fear and in the true knowledge of Thee. Protect me from the deeds of unrighteousness. And if perchance and by reason of my frailty I sin against Thee, I pray Thee take not from me Thy mercy; turn not from me Thy grace; withdraw not Thy help. For there is none other God nor Helper but Thee, and as there is none before Thee, there is none after Thee. Thou art the first and the last, Alpha and Omega, and there is none other God beside Thee. Therefore do I call only upon Thee: may Thy goodness rule over me. Cause me to hear Thy loving kindness in the morning; for in Thee do I trust. Lead me on the paths of righteousness, that I may not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor yet sit in the seat of the scornful, but that my heart may ever delight in Thy word and commandments, and meditate upon them day and night; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
The morning sun shines in the skies,
And we from peaceful slumbers rise.
All praise to God who hath this night
Protected us from Satan’s might.
Lord Jesus, shield us now by day
From sin and error on our way.
To us Thy holy angels send,
And let them to our wants attend.
Make Thou our hearts obedient,
To use Thy word and sacrament,
To do Thy will whate’er betide,
Thus pleasing Thee, our trusty guide.
Bless Thou the labor of our hands
And help us keep Thy law’s demands,
That all our work, begun in Thee,
May to Thy praise and glory be.
Blessed be the Lord God, who only doeth wondrous things! And blessed be His glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with His glory! Daily will I praise the Lord, and at eventime my mouth shall thank Him while I have any being. For when I cry with my voice, He hears me, and gives ear to my supplication. When I pray, He attends to my voice. The Lord is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore do I laud and magnify Thee, Eternal God, that Thou hast this day so mercifully kept me from every harm and evil. My heart is glad and my soul glorifies Thee for Thy goodness and mercy. Ever shall my tongue speak of Thee and say, Blessed be the Lord, and blessed be Thy holy name! I pray Thee, graciously pardon, wherever I have this day sinned against Thee, and grant me and mine Thy protection during the coming night. Be Thou my shield, and my shade upon my right hand. O Lord, preserve me from all evil, preserve my soul. Be gracious unto me, for in Thee do I put my trust. I trust in the Lord, and cry to God, the Highest, to God Who endeth all mine affliction. Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. He will guide my steps on the paths of righteousness, that I slip not and my feet do not falter. He will not suffer my feet to be moved, and His word is a light unto my path. Therefore as I lay me down, I will not be afraid of sudden terror, neither of the desolation of wicked people, when it cometh. For Thou keepest my foot from being taken, and deliverest me from the snares of death. O Lord God, lift upon me the light of Thy countenance, that I may lie down and sleep in peace, and dwell in safety under Thy protection. For Thou alone, O Lord, can help me. In Thy name will I lie down to rest and let my eyelids slumber. Thou, O Lord, wilt again awaken me with rejoicing, to the glory and praise of Thine eternal majesty; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Sunk is the sun’s last beam of light,
And now the world is wrapt in night.
Christ, light us with Thy heavenly ray,
Nor let our feet in darkness stray.
Thanks, Lord, that Thou throughout the day
Hast kept all grief and harm away;
That angels tarried round about
Our coming in and going out.
Whate’er of wrong we’ve done or said,
Let not the charge on us be laid;
That, through Thy free forgiveness blest,
In peaceful slumber we may rest.
Thy guardian angels round us place
All evil from our couch to chase;
Our soul and body, while we sleep,
In safety, gracious Father, keep.
O Thou Very and Eternal God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. To Thee do I lift up my heart in dutiful gratitude. I will not hide Thy righteousness within my heart. I will declare Thy salvation. I will not conceal Thy loving kindness and Thy truth from the great congregation, and all the good that Thou hast shown me will I not keep silent. For it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto Thy name, O Most High: to shew forth Thy loving kindness in the morning, and Thy faithfulness every night. Therefore my soul doth magnify Thee, that Thou in Thy immeasurable grace hast kept me during the night now past. Blessed be Thou, Lord God Sabaoth, who art merciful unto all, that seek Thee and love Thy salvation. Blessed is Thy holy name in all the earth, who art our refuge and our help! Blessed are all Thy works which Thou doest for the children of men! I beseech Thee, protect me this day, that the Evil One may not harm me, and the hands of the wicked touch me not. Lord God, my Savior, early will I seek Thee, early do I cry unto Thee. Grant, that I may fulfill the duties of my calling and all that is committed unto me with diligence and trust to the glory of Thy name and the betterment of my fellowman, so that I may not misuse the light of this day, neither any of Thy creatures in the service of sin and vanity, neither grieve Thee, nor transgress the covenant of my Baptism with anything I do or leave undone. Vouchsafe unto me Thy grace, that I may guard myself against the six things which Thou dost hate, yea, seven which are an abomination unto Thee: a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that are swift in running to mischief, a false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. From such and the like vices preserve me, O God, that I may nevermore be led nor consent to them, but teach me to do Thy will; for Thou art my God: Thy Spirit is good. Lead me into the land of uprightness, that I may serve Thee in a life that is without blame, and my deeds and all my conduct be pleasing in Thy sight; for Christ’s sake. Amen.
The sun, ascending,
To us is lending
Bliss, joy, and gladness,
Cure for all sadness,
Filling the world with its rich, golden light.
I was reclining
When no light was shining;
But the sun’s beauty
Now calls me to duty,
As I behold it so fair and so bright.
Mine eye beholdeth
What God unfoldeth:
Heaven’s bright glory
Tells me the story
Of His unlimited power and love,
And how the sainted
In beauty untainted,
Free from things mortal,
Beyond death’s dark portal,
Dwell in the heavenly mansions above.
To God in heaven
Be praises given;
Come, let us offer
And gladly proffer
To the Creator the gifts that we prize.
He well receiveth
A heart that believeth,
Hymns that adore Him
Are precious before Him
And to His throne like sweet incense arise.
At the day’s ending
Sweet slumbers sending,
And in the morning
All things adorning,
These are His works and His blessings so true.
When night descendeth
Protection He lendeth
When morn appeareth
Our spirits He cheereth,
Causing His mercy to crown us anew.
Father above me,
Thou who dost love me,
Bless my beginning,
Keep me from sinning,
Move ev’ry hindrance well out of my way.
Strength ever lend me,
From Satan defend me,
Spare me temptation,
So that in my station
I may Thy holy commandments obey.
Let me with pleasure
See the full measure
Which upon others,
Who are my brothers,
Thou of Thy blessings dost richly bestow.
Bid envy vanish!
All greediness banish!
Make me Thy dwelling,
Sin’s darkness dispelling.
Grant that in virtue I daily may grow.
What is man’s being?
It is like seeing
Autumn’s bleak shadows
Sweep o’er the meadows
When the cold winds drive the clouds on their way.
All that we cherish
Must crumble and perish.
Plants must stop growing,
And stars must cease glowing;
Heaven and earth are not destined to stay.
All else decayeth,
God only stayeth,
He of creation
Is the foundation.
His will and word must forever abide.
His grace endureth
And for us secureth
Comfort in sorrow
And help for the morrow,
Keeping us cheerful, whate’er may betide.
God of creation,
Be my salvation!
Calm all my terrors,
Blot out my errors,
Grant that Thy pardon I fully may share;
Withal attend me,
Rule, guide, and defend me
In mercy tender,
Because I surrender
Soul, will, and all to Thy fatherly care.
Whilst Thou art giving
What for a living
Seems very needful,
Oh, make Thou me heedful
Of this great truth and commendable thought:
God, like a tower,
Transcends all in power;
Good beyond telling,
In beauty excelling,
He doth suffice me, all else counts for naught.
If grief and sadness
Temper my gladness
If for the morrow
Thou send me sorrow
Do as Thou wilt, for my trust is in Thee.
Thou surely knowest
That what Thou bestowest,
E’en though distressing,
Must bring me a blessing;
Thou wilt not deal too severely with me.
Ills that still grieve me
Soon are to leave me;
Though waves may tower
And winds gain power,
After the storm the fair sun shows its face.
Joys e’er increasing,
And peace never ceasing,
These I shall treasure
And share in full measure
When in His mansions God grants me a place.
Praise be unto Thee, Thou great and unchangeable God! Praise be unto Thy goodness and mercy! Praise be unto Thy eternal wisdom and truth, that Thou hast preserved me during the day now past from all danger and harm. I pray Thee, graciously perfect Thy goodness which Thou hast begun in me, and suffer me to rest this night under Thy protecting shield, and cover me with Thy wings. Suffer me to put my trust under the shadow of Thy hands, that I fear no evil. Keep me, O God, as the apple of the eye. Hide me under the shadow of Thy wings. Lord, Thou art the portion of mine inheritance; my salvation is in Thy hands. Grant unto me, according to Thy goodness, that neither fear nor trembling come over me, and no terrors of the night overwhelm me. Be merciful unto me, for in Thee do I put my trust, and under the shadow of Thy wings do I find my refuge. I seek the Lord in the time of need; my hand is outstretched in the night without ceasing; for my soul has none other comfort; and I know of none other helper in heaven or earth but Thee alone. At midnight when I awaken, I meditate upon Thy name, so altogether lovely, upon Thy goodness and fidelity, vouchsafed unto me, and I praise Thee because of Thy righteous judgments. When I am troubled I remember God, when my spirit is overwhelmed I speak of my Savior. For He redeemeth my life from destruction and saveth me from the snares of death. Lord God, my Savior, by day and by night do I cry unto Thee, pardon all my transgressions, which during this day and the week now past I have committed against Thee. O Lord, deliver my soul for Thy mercy’s sake. Thou art gracious and just, and our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple. I was brought low, and He helped me. Therefore will I rejoice and praise Thee, and sing aloud upon my bed. For the days of my life will appear as noonday, and darkness as the morning’s light, and I will rejoice that Thou, O God, art my hope and my rest in life and death. I lay me down, and none will terrify me. Thus do I commend my body and soul into Thy hands, Thou Faithful God. Thou hast redeemed me through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Soul of mine, to God awaking,
And ye senses, ev’ry one,
Come, your quiet haunts forsaking,
Tell what God to me has done.
How He this entire day
Has been with me on my way,
To my many wants attending
And from ills protection lending.
Praise and thanks to Thee I render,
Father Thou of mercies great.
Thou hast been my strong Defender,
And Thy love does not abate.
Thou hast shielded me from woe,
Lent me strength and quenched the foe,
So that I, such help beholding,
Rest secure in Thine enfolding.
If from Thee I have departed,
I return again to Thee,
Knowing Thou art tender-hearted,
Since Thy Son has died for me.
I can not deny the guilt,
But for me His blood was spilt,
And Thy grace, all sin exceeding,
Lends forgiveness at His pleading.
O Thou Light, with brightness filling
Ev’ry true and pious soul,
Into me Thy grace instilling,
Make my troubled spirit whole.
Deign this night to stay with me,
And let me abide in Thee,
That, while darkness may enthrall me,
Yet no evil may befall me.
Grant that I in peace may slumber,
Finding sweet and quiet rest.
Let no cares my soul encumber,
Keep it by Thy presence blest.
Mind and body, child and wife,
All my goods and all my life,
Friends and foes (again befriended)
Be this night to Thee commended.
Let no terrors overtake me,
Shield me well from base attack.
Let no grievous pain awake me,
War and pestilence keep back.
Ward off fire, water, death,
All that threatens life and breath.
Spare me violence, extortion
And, withal, a sinner’s portion.
O immortal God, endue me
With the gifts for which I ask.
Jesus, lest some ill pursue me,
Prosper me in ev’ry task.
Holy Spirit, comfort, friend,
On whose counsel I depend,
Listen to my earnest pleading,
Amen. Thou my prayer art heeding.
Dear God and Lord! I live, yet know not how long. I die, yet know not when. Thou, O Heavenly Father, knowest. Lo, dear Lord, is this hour, this day (this night) the last of my life: Thy will be done! Thou alone knowest best. As Thou wilt I am willing through the true faith in Jesus Christ, my Redeemer, to live or die. But, O God, do Thou grant me this petition, that I may not suddenly pass away in my sins, and be lost. Vouchsafe unto me true knowledge, repentance and sorrow over my passed transgressions. Set them before my sight in this life, that they may not at the last day be set before me, and I be put to shame before angels and men. Grant me sufficient time and opportunity for repentance, so that from all my heart I may know and acknowledge my transgressions, and from Thy saving word obtain forgiveness and comfort for the same. O Merciful Father, forsake me not, and take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. My heart and my heart’s trust, O Thou Searcher of hearts, is ever known to Thee. Keep me in such trust to the life eternal. May I die, when Thou wilt, only grant me a peaceful and blessed End. Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, Thou highest good,
I pray Thee, through Thy precious blood,
Grant, that my final end be good. Amen.
Rule Thou, O God the Father, who hast made us, and like all other creatures ordained us not to indolence but to work, and bless each one in his calling. Thou who rulest the universe also rule our own dear government and graciously vouchsafe to it Thy wisdom and strength.
Rule Thou, O God the Son, who hast redeemed and ransomed us from sin. Take from us the burden of sin committed during the week now past, and graciously grant us Thy peace. Thou the Supreme Bishop and Archshepherd of our souls, help all servants of Thy word in this and all Thy congregations on earth to labor and bring forth much fruit unto eternal life.
Rule Thou, O God the Holy Ghost, who hast sanctified us and born us again in Holy Baptism. Create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us, that we carry no evils of the past into the new week, but put away all purpose and inclination of the old Adam still in us. Govern Thou our hearts with power; and if this week mark for any of us the end of life, help Thou in the last bitter hour. Fill the heart with that grace which is better than life. Teach the hands to battle and vanquish the last enemy, and grant for Christ’s sake, the rest and triumph of the sabbath everlasting.
Thou, the Triune and Immortal God, be and abide with us and Thy Church forever. Unto Thee be glory, laud, and honor, world without end. Amen.