A Puritan Prayer of Thanksgiving

Over 300 years ago a pious Puritan wrote a prayer of thanksgiving. The Puritans often wrote out prayers that read like poetry. It would seem that there would be few similarities between the life of this Puritan and me.  Yet as I look through the list of things for which he (or she) is thankful, it's hard to think of anything to add. I, too, wish to give thanks for those things. Here then, is the Puritan Prayer with photos both recent and bygone.

I thank Thee for the temporal blessings of this world—

the refreshing air, 

the light of the sun, 

the food that renews strength, 

the raiment that clothes, 

the dwelling that shelters, 

the sleep that gives rest, 

the starry canopy of night, 

the summer breeze, 

the flowers' sweetness, 

the music of flowing streams, 

the happy endearments of family, kindred, friends. 











Things animate, things inanimate, minister to my comfort. My cup runs over. Suffer me not to be insensible to these daily mercies.  

Thy hand bestows blessings: Thy power averts evil. 

Photo by Monica Warren

I bring my tribute of thanks for spiritual graces, 
the full warmth of faith, 
the cheering presence of Thy Spirit, 
the strength of Thy restraining will, 
Thy spiking of hell's artillery. Blessed be my sovereign Lord!