Matthew Henry’s “Method For Prayer”

Pray for the Grace of Self-Denial and Humility

Petition 3.22 | ESV

We must pray for the grace of self-denial.

Lord, give me grace to deny myself, to take up my cross daily, and to follow Christ; Matthew 16:24(ESV) to discipline my body and keep it under control. 1 Corinthians 9:27(ESV)

Lord, keep me from being a lover of my own self, 2 Timothy 3:2(ESV) from being wise in my own eyes and leaning to my own understanding. Proverbs 3:5-7(ESV)

Lord, give me to seek, not my own good only, but also the good of my neighbor. 1 Corinthians 10:24(ESV)

And grant that I may not live to myself or die to myself, but whether I live or die, may I be the Lord’s, and live and die to him. Romans 14:7-8(ESV)

We must pray for humility and meekness.

Lord, give me to learn from Christ to be gentle and lowly in heart, that I may find rest for my soul; Matthew 11:29(ESV) and that herein the same mind may be in me that was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5(ESV)

Lord, conceal pride from me, Job 33:17(ESV) and clothe me with humility; 1 Peter 5:5(ESV) and put upon me the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in your sight is very precious. 1 Peter 3:4-5(ESV)

Lord, give me grace to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which I have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with others in love. Ephesians 4:1-2(ESV)

Let anger never lodge in my bosom, Ecclesiastes 7:9(ESV) nor the sun ever go down on my anger; Ephesians 4:26(ESV) but enable me to show perfect courtesy toward all people, because I myself was once foolish and disobedient. Titus 3:2-3(ESV)

Let me be clothed as becomes an elect child of God, holy and beloved, with a compassionate heart, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, Colossians 3:12(ESV) that being merciful, even as my heavenly Father is merciful, Luke 6:36(ESV) I may be perfect as he is perfect. Matthew 5:48(ESV)

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