A Prayer about Resting from Self-Reliance

Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. 2 Corinthians 1:9

Resurrecting and Rest-giving God,

Forgive us for our stubborn self-reliance, 

our refusal to rest, 

our restless commitment 

to hurry and busyness.

Thank you for sending suffering 

that stops us in our tracks. 

Give us the eyes to see 

like the blind man given sight, 

your beloved apostle Paul, 

that when we experience affliction, 

when we feel “utterly burdened beyond our strength,” 

and “despair of life itself” (2 Cor. 1: 8), 

you are inviting us to the rest and reliance we need, 

the only rest that will truly satisfy, 

rest in your suffering Son, Jesus. 

Slow us down in our sorrow 

that we may feel 

your strength, 

your sturdiness, 

your steadfast love. 

Help us not to rush 

to comfort others in their affliction (2 Cor. 1:3-7), 

even though that labor will one day be a byproduct 

of our suffering. 

Help us to simply stop, 

to shed the tears you wait to count, 

to throw ourselves completely 

on the rest you give. 

For indeed, 

you are the God who raises the dead, 

and you give us the hope 

that “will deliver us again” (2 Cor. 1:10). 

In the name of our Savior who suffered 

that we might be comforted. Amen.

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-11.