An Ancient Prayer That Still Has Incredible Power

Over 800 years ago, Christians just like us were eager to deepen their connection with God. So, they crafted the Sarum Primer. It turned out to be a precious resource for prayer and worship. I believe that these simple expressions of faith continue to resonate with us today.

One of my favorite prayers from this primer pleaded for God’s presence in every facet of life. They begged Him to inhabit their minds, thoughts, mold their speech, and dwell in their hearts and souls—embracing their emotions and feelings. It was an acknowledgment of their need to surrender completely to God, seeking His assistance in all endeavors.

It went like this:

God be in my head,

And in my understanding;

God be in my eyes

And in my looking;

God be in my mouth

And in my speaking;

God be in my heart

And in my thinking;

God be at my end,

And at my departing.

Likewise, this prayer holds relevance for all of us still in 2024. What challenges will face you today? What obstacles will you encounter? What conflicts might arise?

This prayer serves as a gentle nudge to commit your entire life to God—not just certain aspects, but every single detail. Seek Him in all things, trusting in His presence and guidance in every situation you face.

Dedicate all days, every action and every word to God. Surrender every thought, dedicating your time and resources to Him. Humbly seek His wisdom while trusting in His faithfulness. Remain mindful of His constant presence, knowing that He walks with you through every moment.

Chad Mitchell
Afternoon Show Host, STAR 99.1

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Chad Mitchell

7 Comments

  1. Mike on March 21, 2024 at 10:35 am

    When the thoughts come up that are not from God, I like to speak out loud ” Lord, I know this thought is not from you. I give this thought up to the obedience of Jesus Christ.”

    • Chad Mitchell on March 21, 2024 at 12:03 pm

      Mike,

      That sounds like a perfect response! Thanks so much for reading, reaching out and being a valued member of the STAR family!

      Have an awesome day,

      Chad

    • Natalia on March 22, 2024 at 2:12 am

      Mike, that’s awesome that you’re able to differentiate the negative, evil, thoughts from the loving, caring, thoughts of God. That’s definitely the first step, to be able to humble and calm ourselves enough to where we are able to realize these are not God’s thoughts and have strength to say, out loud, 📢 “Satan get off my back!” 🕊️

  2. Nancy on March 21, 2024 at 12:10 pm

    Love it. Thank you.

    • Chad Mitchell on March 22, 2024 at 3:49 pm

      Nancy,

      You are more than welcome. Have a blessed day…Chad

  3. Arlene B. Muller on March 21, 2024 at 1:46 pm

    This is reminiscent of the prayers of St. Patrick’, whose feast day we celebrated on March 17. It is similar to the prayer known as “ST. PATRICK’S BREASTPLATE” & similar prayers.

    • Chad Mitchell on March 22, 2024 at 3:51 pm

      Arlene,

      The real question…

      Did you eat some corned beef and cabbage last Sunday? 🙂

      Chad

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