======================================================================== A SACRISTY PRAYER by Martin Luther ======================================================================== Summary: Martin Luther emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inadequacy and dependence on God in Christian leadership and service. Topics: "Pastoral Ministry", "Spiritual Guidance" Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5, 2 Corinthians 12:9, James 1:5 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DESCRIPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Martin Luther humbly acknowledges his inadequacy as a Bishop and Pastor in the Church, recognizing his need for God's help to fulfill his duties effectively. He surrenders his mouth and heart to God, committing to teach and learn diligently from His Word. Luther pleads for God to use him as His instrument and not to forsake him, as he is aware that without God's guidance, he could easily fail in his responsibilities. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CONTENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------ A Sacristy Prayer by Martin Luther Translated From: _Dr. Martin Luthers Werke_, (Weimar: Hermann Boehlaus Nachfolger, 1909), Band 43, pp. 513. Translated by James Kellerman Lord God, You have appointed me as a Bishop and Pastor in Your Church, but you see how unsuited I am to meet so great and difficult a task. If I had lacked Your help, I would have ruined everything long ago. Therefore, I call upon You: I wish to devote my mouth and my heart to you; I shall teach the people. I myself will learn and ponder diligently upon You Word. Use me as Your instrument -- but do not forsake me, for if ever I should be on my own, I would easily wreck it all. ======================================================================== Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/martin-luther/a-sacristy-prayer/ ========================================================================