Almighty and everlasting God, our heavenly Father,

  whose mercy and lovingkindness are known to all who trust in you.

We thank you for your unfailing promises to us, your children.

We cast ourselves upon you, and are supported by you.

We live secure in the sure and certain fulfillment of your precious promises.

You have promised, O God, that while the earth remains,

  seed-time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter,

  and day and night shall not cease.

We praise your Name for these manifestations of your unfailing providence.

In the midst of sorrow or joy, sickness of health, adversity or prosperity,

  grant, we beg you, that we may never lose sight of you.

And when the storms of confusion and uncertainty overtake us,

  speak peace to our souls, O blessed Lord,

  and enlighten our minds with your Holy Spirit.

Lighten our burdens by strengthening our spirits.

Keep us strong and give us courage.

And when the ways of common life

  would tend to discourage and embitter us,

  give us the grace and the patience to maintain a loving and confident spirit,

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Jesse Jai McNeil, 1913-1965, African American Minister and author

slightly modernized

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Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.