# I Cannot Do This Alone – A Prayer for Strength
*2008-11-24*

> Bill Young shares a short, powerful prayer for those feeling overwhelmed, reminding listeners that God’s presence sustains us in darkness, loneliness, and restlessness.

## Introducing the Prayer

Good afternoon. This is Bill Young, and welcome to the 204th episode of Catholic Podcast Ministries, Prayer and Lunch. I found a beautiful prayer on belief.net titled “I Cannot Do This Alone.” It’s brief but powerful, especially for anyone feeling discouraged or burdened.

## The Prayer Itself

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

O God, early this morning I cried to you. Help me to pray and to concentrate my thoughts on you. I cannot do this alone. In me there is darkness, but with you there is light. I am lonely, but you do not leave me. I am feeble in heart, but with you there is help. I am restless, but with you there is peace. In me there is bitterness, but with you there is patience. I do not understand your ways, but you know the way for me. Restore me to liberty and enable me to live now, that I may answer before you.

## Applying the Prayer to Daily Life

Bill reflects that none of us can face life’s challenges on our own. When we feel darkness, loneliness, or impatience, we are invited to turn to God, who offers light, companionship, help, peace, and patience. By praying this prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on God’s grace and ask Him to restore our freedom to live fully for Him.

*God’s presence turns our darkness into light and our weakness into strength.*