In 1953, the YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Associations) published a book entitled The Student Prayerbook. Though it was not intended to replace one’s on prayer life, the book was meant to aid people as they considered the question, “How should I pray?” In the introduction, the editor, John Nelson, says, “It is intended for the seat-rack in many a small chapel, for student services in conference grove or prayer circle, and most of all for the study table and the bedside where private devotion is likely to be kept.” I would like to share one section, section 114 – “Vocation in Counseling and Personnel”, with you. The bold sections especially struck me as important as we think about pastoring and counseling.

O Lord, to whose blessed Son all men took their problems and difficulties, raise up amongst us men and women trained and humble to guide the voices and lives of those about them. We know, O God, what perplexities and confusions surround us all, and beg thy forgiveness for anything we have added to the frustrations of our friends and loved ones. Make us affirmative and strong to heal, sensitive to inner tragedy, skilled to recognize the sources of difficulty, constant in our hope for every child of thy love. So may we avoid our Lord’s condemnation of blind guides for the blind, but rather lead others to light because we see thee clearly, the Light of the world. Amen

We thank thee, O God, for deeper understanding of the mind and instincts of man, for the shattering of our pride, and for the humility which comes from perceiving our share in the deep instinctive forces of all creation; for the healing of the lunatic and possessed, for the dispersal of neurosis and obsession.

Grant, O mericiful Father, that we may ever remember those committed to our care, not as cases but as persons, never using our knowledge as power, but with self-effacement and love. We pray for non-Christian counselors and advisers, that thou mayest use their skill in spite of their convictions; and for ourselves that our faith may commend thee to them as the author of all health and wholeness. Amen