The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions is not just one of my favorite books but a classic. the collection was first released in 1975 and represented a wonderful glimpse into the Puritan mindset.
At the heart of the Puritan mindset is the call for every Christian to Piety. The concept of Puritan piety was interwoven precepts of reformed theology and the duty of life. One could not be a devoted follower of Christ without that devotion being expressed in a life devoted to Him in every aspect.
A central theme found in their writings, and central to the Valley of Visions, is our continual work of sanctification and the need to draw near our savior every minute of every day.
If that was the focus of people living in the 1700s when life was simple, how much more does that call upon us today in a world overflowing with distractions and the constant pull to materialism?
May this be our prayer today... and every day henceforth!
Day 37 – February 13 – The Christian Prayer (The Valley of Vision)
Ten thousand snares are mine without and within, defend thou me; When sloth and indolence seize me, give me views of heaven; When sinners entice me, give me disrelish of their ways; When sensual pleasures tempt me, purify and refine me; When I desire worldly possessions, help me to be rich toward thee; When the vanities of the world ensnare me, let me not plunge into new guilt and ruin. May I remember the dignity of my spiritual release, never be too busy to attend to my soul, never be so engrossed with the time that I neglect the things of eternity; thus, may I not only live but grow towards thee.
Ten thousand snares are mine without and within, defend thou me; When sloth and indolence seize me, give me views of heaven; When sinners entice me, give me disrelish of their ways; When sensual pleasures tempt me, purify and refine me; When I desire worldly possessions, help me to be rich toward thee; When the vanities of the world ensnare me, let me not plunge into new guilt and ruin. May I remember the dignity of my spiritual release, never be too busy to attend to my soul, never be so engrossed with the time that I neglect the things of eternity; thus, may I not only live but grow towards thee.
Pastor Charles
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