Prayer before work

Lord, before I start my work, I place myself before you. You know the tasks waiting for me, the ones I like and the ones I avoid, the people I will deal with and the pressures I will feel.

Give me focus to do well what is mine to do. Give me honesty in my words and my numbers, so that no one is harmed by what I do. Give me patience with those who are slow and humility with those who are better than I am. May I treat no one as an obstacle.

If I make a mistake today, help me recognize it quickly and put it right. If I am treated unfairly, guard my heart from bitterness. If I am praised, remind me who gave me the ability.

I ask you for my livelihood and for the livelihood of those who depend on this work. Establish the work of my hands, and let it serve someone besides me.

Help me work as one who works for you — wholeheartedly, without pretending, without fear. And remind me, when the day is done, to close the door and rest. Amen.