The Book of Joshua (Prayers)

Joshua Prayers

A Prayer of Courage (Joshua 1)

Grant us, O Lord, that with peace of mind we may face all that this new day is to bring.

Help us to dedicate ourselves completely to your holy will.

For every hour of this day, instruct and support us in all things.

Whatever tidings we may receive during the day, teach us to accept tranquilly, in the firm conviction that all circumstances fulfill your holy will.

Govern our thoughts and feelings in all we do and say.

When things unforeseen occur, let us not forget that everything comes from you.

Teach us to behave sincerely and rationally toward every member of our family, that we may bring confusion and sorrow to none.

Bestow upon us, our Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day, and to bear our part in all its passing events.

Guide our will and teach us to pray, to believe, to hope, to suffer, to forgive, and to love. Amen.

Prayer of the Optina Elders (Orthodox)

A Prayer for Cleansing (Joshua 7)

O Lord our God, great, eternal, wonderful in glory, cleanse us from our sins, and from every thought displeasing to Thy goodness, cleanse our souls and bodies, our hearts and consciences that with a pure heart and a clear mind, with perfect love and calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly to pray unto Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Coptic Liturgy of Saint Basil

A Prayer for a Steadfast Heart (Joshua 12)

Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downward; give us an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give us an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274)

A Prayer Celebrating God’s Character (Joshua 24)

Be our Joy and Hope, our Strength and Life, our Shield and Shepherd, our Portion forever. For happy are we if we continue in the love in which loved us; holy are we when we love you unwaveringly. Therefore, you whose name and essence is love, enkindle our hearts, enlighten our understandings, sanctify our wills, and fill all the thoughts of our hearts; for Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen.

Johann Arndt (1555–1621)