The Prayer of St. Francis
The prayer commonly attributed to St. Francis of Assisi is not found in his writings, yet its message has echoed through the hearts of believers for over a century. While not Scripture, it captures a spirit of humble service, gospel-centered love, and Christlike character that aligns with biblical values. Let us examine its message through the lens of God’s Word.
Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Thy Peace
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). To be an instrument of peace is to be used by God to bring reconciliation where there is strife. Peace is not compromise with error, but unity in truth and love. It flows from a heart made right with God through Christ.
Where There is Hatred, Let Me Sow Love
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you” (Matthew 5:44).
This is not natural love, but supernatural grace. It is the love of Christ flowing through us, even to those who oppose or harm us. We are not called to react in kind, but to respond with the kindness of God. Love overcomes evil with good.
Where There is Injury, Pardon
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:32).
Forgiveness is not excusing sin, but releasing the right to hold it against another. It is rooted in the cross, where Jesus bore the penalty for our sins. When we remember how much we’ve been forgiven, we become willing to forgive others freely.
Where There is Doubt, Faith
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).
The world is filled with doubt, fear, and skepticism. But the child of God walks by faith, trusting in the promises of the Lord even when they cannot be seen. Faith is not blind. It is fixed on the unchanging character of God and His Word.
Where There is Despair, Hope
“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God” (Psalm 42:11).
Hope is not wishful thinking. It is a confident expectation rooted in the faithfulness of God. When others despair, we point them to the One who gives eternal hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
Where There is Darkness, Light
“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness” (John 8:12).
The world lies in darkness, but Jesus is the Light. Those who belong to Him reflect His light into a lost and dying world. We are not the source, but the vessels through which His light shines. The Gospel dispels the darkness of sin and death.
Where There is Sadness, Joy
“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).
Joy is not the absence of sorrow, but the presence of Christ. Even in trials, the believer can rejoice because of who God is and what He has promised. Our joy is rooted in eternity, not circumstances. We bring joy to others by pointing them to Him.
O Divine Master, Grant That I May Not So Much Seek
To Be Consoled As to Console
“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others” (Philippians 2:4).
True comfort is found not in being served, but in serving others. Christ is our example. He came not to be ministered unto, but to minister. When we console others, we receive consolation from the God of all comfort.
To Be Understood As to Understand
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak” (James 1:19).
We live in a world eager to speak but slow to listen. Understanding begins with listening and loving. It means laying aside pride and self-defense to enter into the needs and burdens of others. The Lord understands us perfectly, and we are called to show that same patience and compassion.
To Be Loved As to Love
“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8).
Love is the mark of the true disciple. Rather than demanding affection, we are called to give it. The more we know the love of Christ, the more we are able to show it freely, sacrificially, and sincerely.
For It Is in Giving That We Receive
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38).
God’s economy is not like the world’s. When we give in His name, whether of time, love, or resources, we are never the poorer for it. The Lord delights in cheerful givers and promises to supply every need according to His riches in glory.
It Is in Pardoning That We Are Pardoned
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7).
Mercy shown to others reflects the mercy we have received. It is not a means to earn forgiveness, but the fruit of having been forgiven. A heart that refuses to pardon reveals it has not truly known the pardon of God.
It Is in Dying That We Are Born to Eternal Life
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone… but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit” (John 12:24).
To follow Christ is to die to self. It is to take up the cross and follow Him. But this death brings life, even eternal life. When we lose our life for His sake, we find it. This is the Gospel. Christ died and rose again. And in Him, so do we.
A Prayerful Life That Reflects the Savior
Though not penned by St. Francis, this prayer reflects a heart that longs to be conformed to Christ. It is not a formula, but a focus on humility, selflessness, and Gospel-centered living. As we meditate on its words through the lens of Scripture, may we be stirred to live for Jesus with renewed devotion and love.
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5).