Prayers for Illumination on Understanding

Holy Spirit,

pour out upon us

wisdom and understanding,

that, being taught by you in Holy Scripture,

our hearts and minds may be opened to receive

all that leads to life and holiness.

Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Ancient Collect, Source Unknown

O gracious and holy Father,

Give us wisdom to perceive you,

intelligence to understand you,

diligence to seek you, patience to wait for you,

eyes to see you,

a heart to meditate on you,

and a life to proclaim you,

through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Benedict of Nursia

Almighty God, in you are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Open our eyes that we may see the wonders of your Word; and give us grace that we may clearly understand and freely choose the way of your wisdom; through Christ our Lord. Amen.  

Living God, help us so to hear your holy Word that we may truly understand; that, understanding, we may believe and believing, we may follow in all faithfulness and obedience, seeking your honor and glory in all that we do; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Huldrych Zwingli

Holy and gracious God, you are the greatest of all. You are full of wonders that no mere human can comprehend. Lord, we seek to understand you and your ways so that we can live according to your commandments. We pray for your divine illumination in our hearts and and our minds. Help us see what you intend for us to see. Help us to understand what you intend for us to understand. Open our eyes and our ears to see you and hear your whispers. Amen.