Prayer for Assurance

As we look out of our windows today, gracious Lord, the warm, cheerful, life-giving rays of the sun are blocked from our view by clouds.  So also in our lives sometimes the clouds of despair or fear or anxiety block from our view, the lifegiving power of your Spirit, and we feel lost and alone.  Reach out to us, O good and gracious Shepherd, and take our hand thus assuring us of your presence in the midst of our darkness.  Embrace us with the warmth of your Love; enhance us with the power of your indwelling spirit; enlighten us with  your wisdom so we can see beyond our clouds and again bask in the awareness of your abiding presence.  Guide us through this day, and throughout our future, lead us.  Amen.