Luther's Morning and Evening Prayer
I thank thee, my heavenly Father
This prayer exemplifies Luther's emphasis on personal faith and the believer's direct access to God through prayer and gratitude. It reflects the Lutheran doctrine of sanctification through daily repentance and reliance upon God's mercy and protection.
History & Background
Luther composed this prayer as part of his catechetical instruction, appearing in the Small Catechism (1529) as a model for daily Christian prayer. It has been preserved in Lutheran hymnals and devotional literature for nearly 500 years as an exemplary prayer form.
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Luther in 1529, this prayer became a cornerstone of Lutheran household devotion, teaching families to begin and end each day in honest confession and grateful trust.
Preaching Connection
This prayer demonstrates how Lutheran piety holds Law and Gospel in daily rhythm: we confess our sin and need, then receive God's promise of protection and renewal, training the heart in repentance and faith.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Confession of Sin Small Catechism — Confession
Themes
Prayer Daily devotion God's protection Gratitude Sanctification