Prayer Before Preaching

by Saint Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109)

Grant to me, O Lord, an eloquence most gentle and wise, that for Thy good gifts I may not be puffed up and extolled above my brothers. Place in my mouth, I beseech Thee, through Thy Holy Spirit, words of consolation, edification, and exhortation, that I may encourage the good to better things, and by word and example bring back to the threshold of Thy righteousness those who walk apart from Thee. May the words which Thou dost give to Thy servant be as keen darts and as burning arrows to penetrate the minds of those that hear, and inflame them with fear and love of Thee. Amen.