6. PRAYER OF A HUSBAND

     Almighty, beneficient God, Thou hast Thyself instituted holy wedlock and hast by means of the first miracle of Thy dear Son Jesus Christ honored and distinguished it as a state pleasing to Thee, in which also many sainted fathers and prophets lived a godly life, well pleasing to Thee.  And since, by Thy guidence I have entered holy matrimony and Thou hast ordained me to be the head of a household and dost take especial delight in the following of three things:  That brethren dwell together in unity, that neighbors love one another, and that husband and wife serve each other in love, I now pray Thee from my inmost heart, grant that I in Christian love, harmony, and consideration live with my wife as the weaker vessel, that I accord to her the honor due her as coheir to the grace of life eternal, that I incline her, together with our children and domestics, to a knowledge of Thee and Thine honor, doing all this in chastity and propriety.  To this end do Thou bestow grace that the members of my household follow my guidance when I direct them to what is good and godly.  Prevent the Evil One from introduing discord and contention, and if through weakness of flesh the spirit of discord get the upper hand, grant that harmony be speedily restored.  Graciously grant that I may never covet a strange spouse or woman, nor look upon her to lust after her.  If it is Thy divine will, keep sickness from me and my family.  And grant to me, Thy humble servant, that I be diligent in my calling, eat my bread in the sweat of my brow, and do not grow disheartened over stress of work; for Thou hast so ordained it.  Also bestow Thy blessing upon my substance that it may increase without damage or loss to others.  Favor me with pious servants and faithful laborers.  Preserve from harm my house and my home and all Thou hast given me.  Also help me patiently to bear my cross and after this life gather us and all Christians into Thy kingdom above.  Amen.