Autumn W

“Morning Prayer Gregory of Nazianzus (329–390) ☙ 15 As the sun rises, I lift my hand to you, O God, for you to determine my path. Please control my passions. Help me stand firm in your ways and live this day for you. Allow no dark words, no sin-filled acts, no base thoughts even to enter my life. Rather, watch over all my internal actions so that I may truly keep my vow to you. Please keep me from bringing shame to myself or, more importantly, to your people. Indeed, let your will be done through the grace that you give to me. Amen.”
― Jonathan W. Arnold, Cloud of Witnesses: A Treasury of Prayers and Petitions through the Ages

“We ought to give ourselves to God in both mundane and spiritual matters. We should seek our satisfaction only in fulfilling His will, whether that leads to suffering or comfort. All things are equal to a soul truly surrendered to God.”
― Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God In Modern English

“We see the magnitude of God’s glory precisely in the meekness of God’s self-emptying.”
― Emily Hunter McGowin, Christmas: The Season of Life and Light

“When I am forced to wait, I grow. My patience, perseverance, and longing for God deepen. I learn to loosen my grip on control as I recognize, like Zechariah and Elizabeth, that no amount of righteous living can bring God’s plans into fruition. He brings them in his own time and in his own way.”
― Bette Dickinson, Making Room in Advent: 25 Devotions for a Season of Wonder