My Jesus, relieve me of my discouragement.

My devotion has vanished; spiritual thoughts no longer soothe my troubled soul.

Even the remembrances of Your passion and of Your Blessed Mother grow dim before my vision.

O Jesus, do not forsake me. Help me, help me! I am resolved not to omit a single one of my devotions.

Hear me, O my God, strengthen and increase my faith. Keep me from yielding to temptation.

You said, “My yoke is sweet; my burden is light.” Have mercy on me, for wheresoever I turn I see only obstacles and difficulties. Were my faith strong I would accept my trials; but alas, I feel only impatience, doubt and discouragement. My soul, hold fast to Jesus.

How faint-hearted and childish I am! All my comfort, all my joy must come from You.

Bring me closer to You when temptations assail me.

Help me not to fail. O Lord, my God, I cast myself entirely into Your Hands.

Worn out by the struggle, I will rest beneath Your cross; pray for me in my desolation of soul. Jesus, be merciful to me.

Amen.

Saint John Neumann (1811-1860)

Collected by Fr. Benedict Groeschel, CFR, in his book “Praying to Our Lord Jesus Christ”.

ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CATHOLIC NOVENA PRAYERS AND DEVOTIONS