This is a close approximation of the prayer I gave to open the State Senate session today:

Most High God.

As this new day begins for the Senate of the State of Michigan, we invoke your presence in the decisions and deliberations before us.

For you are Soveriegn over all the kingdoms of the world and you give authority to whomever you desire. You have appointed these distinguished men and women to serve the people of our State in this pivotal hour.

I pray you give them divine insight to lead Michigan into a new era of innovation, renewal and opportunity.

I ask that you give them courage to make the difficult decisions that will do the most good for the greatest number of people.

I pray that you give these servant-leaders strength to see their assignments here to completion. Bless their families Lord, who sacrifice so much that they might serve so many.

May your kingdom come and your will be done in the destiny of the Great State of Michigan. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.