A Reading from ‘The Valley of Vision’

This morning during my prayer time, I picked up my copy of “The Valley of Vision,” a collection of prayers and devotions from the Puritans. I use this little book as a daily aid in my private prayer time, orienting me toward the glory of God and my own sinfulness. 

This morning’s selection was called “The Mover.” This prayer was so special and moving to me that I wanted to share the full text with you:

O Supreme Moving Cause,

May I always be subordinate to thee,

be dependent upon thee;

be found in the path where thou dost walk,

and where thy Spirit moves,

take heed of estrangement from thee,

of becoming insensible to they love.

Thou dost not move men like stones,

but dost endue them with life,

not to enable them to move without thee,

but in submission to thee, the first mover.

O Lord, I am astonished at the difference

between my receivings and my deservings,

between the state I am now in and my past gracelessness,

between the heaven I am bound for and the hell I merit.

Who made me to differ, but thee?

for I was no more ready to receive Christ than were others;

I could not have begun to love thee hadst thou not first loved me,

or been willing unless thou hadst first made me so.

O that such a crown should fit the head of such a sinner!

such high advancement be for an unfruitful person!

such joys for so vile a rebel!

Infinite wisdom cast the design of salvation

into the mould of purchase and freedom;

Let wrath deserved be written on the door of hell,

But the free gift of grace on the gate of heaven.

I know that my sufferings are the result of my sinning,

but in heaven both shall cease;

Grant me to attain this haven and be done with sailing,

and may the gales of thy mercy blow me safely into harbour.

Let thy love draw me nearer to thyself,

wean me from sin, mortify me to this world,

and make me ready for my departure hence.

Secure me by thy grace as I sail across this stormy sea.

I strongly commend ‘The Valley of Vision’ for daily reading and reflection. You can order it directly from The Banner of Truth here.