Mother Teresa’s life was a testament to unwavering faith and selfless service, often in the face of overwhelming challenges. She famously lived by a set of principles that guided her actions, even when circumstances seemed impossible. These “do it anyway” principles, as they came to be known, are not just a historical curiosity; they are a profound spiritual roadmap for anyone seeking to live a life of purpose and devotion. They speak to a deep trust in God’s plan and a commitment to love and serve, regardless of the outcome or the difficulties encountered.
This article explores the spiritual significance of these powerful principles through the lens of prayer. We will delve into twenty distinct prayers, each inspired by Mother Teresa’s ethos, designed to help you connect with God’s strength and guidance. These prayers are crafted to be devotional, encouraging you to lean on divine power rather than your own efforts. They are meant to be a source of comfort, motivation, and a reminder that through faith, we can indeed “do it anyway,” trusting that God is working all things for good.
As you read through these prayers, allow them to resonate with your own life experiences. Reflect on the times you’ve felt discouraged or uncertain, and consider how these words can offer a new perspective. This is an invitation to deepen your prayer life, to find solace in God’s presence, and to embrace the call to love and serve with a heart full of faith, knowing that your efforts are never in vain when aligned with His will.
Short Prayers to Do It Anyway
My dearest Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of hope and a spirit yearning to follow Your path. Sometimes, the world feels heavy, and the tasks before me seem insurmountable. Yet, I remember the example of Your faithful servants, those who trusted in You even when the way was unclear. Grant me the grace to see Your hand in every situation, to find strength in Your promises, and to act with love, even when it is difficult. Help me to remember that my efforts are not in vain when they are offered to You. Instill in me a deep and abiding trust, so that I may always choose love and service, knowing that You are my constant guide and my ultimate reward. Amen.
20 Mother Theresa Prayers To Do It Anyway
1. Prayer for Unconditional Love
Lord, I pray for the grace to love others as You love them, without condition or expectation. Sometimes, people are ungrateful, unreasonable, and difficult. It is hard to keep loving them when they hurt us or do not appreciate our efforts. Yet, You call us to love them anyway. Help me to see them through Your eyes, to offer kindness even when it is not returned, and to extend grace freely. May my love be a reflection of Your boundless mercy, a constant offering of Your light in the world, no matter the response.
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” – John 13:34
This prayer asks for a love that mirrors God’s own perfect love. It acknowledges the human struggle with difficult people and situations, recognizing that true Christian love is not dependent on the recipient’s actions. It’s about choosing to pour out affection and kindness, understanding that this is a divine mandate. When we pray for this kind of love, we are asking for a transformation of our hearts, enabling us to extend compassion even when it feels unnatural or undeserved. This is the essence of doing it anyway—acting in love because it is God’s will, not because it is easy or reciprocated.
2. Prayer for Kindness in the Face of Ingratitude
Heavenly Father, I lift up those who are often overlooked and unthanked. So often, our acts of service go unnoticed, our kindness met with indifference. It is disheartening when our best efforts are met with ingratitude. But I know that You see all, and Your reward is sure. Help me to continue to be kind, to offer a gentle word and a helping hand, even when no one seems to notice or care. May I find my joy in pleasing You, knowing that every act of selfless kindness is a prayer in itself, a testament to Your love working through me.
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” – Colossians 3:23-24
This prayer focuses on the quiet, often unacknowledged, acts of kindness. It speaks to the human tendency to seek validation and appreciation, and the disappointment that can arise when it’s absent. The prayer encourages perseverance in kindness, reminding us that our ultimate audience is God. By doing good “heartily, as to the Lord,” we shift our focus from human recognition to divine approval. This is a powerful way to “do it anyway”—to continue being a source of goodness and compassion, trusting that God is the ultimate witness and rewarder of our faithful actions, even when they go unnoticed by others.
3. Prayer for Success in Our Endeavors
Lord, I commit my work and my plans into Your hands. There are times when our best-laid plans seem to fail, and our efforts yield little fruit. We strive and toil, but success feels elusive. Yet, You call us to do our best and trust You with the outcome. Grant me the wisdom to work diligently and the humility to accept Your will for my endeavors. Help me to find satisfaction in the effort itself, knowing that You can bless even the smallest seed planted in faith and obedience. May my work always be a testament to Your power to bring forth fruit from seemingly barren ground.
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:6
This prayer addresses the desire for success in our undertakings, acknowledging that human effort alone is insufficient. It highlights the tension between diligent work and the ultimate control God holds over outcomes. The prayer asks for wisdom to act rightly and humility to accept God’s direction, even if it differs from our own desires. It encourages finding fulfillment in the process of working faithfully, trusting that God can bring success to our efforts. This is about “doing it anyway”—pursuing our goals with all our heart, while surrendering the results to God’s sovereign plan, knowing He will guide our paths.
4. Prayer for Peace Amidst Conflict
Father, I pray for Your peace to reign in my heart and in the midst of conflict. Life often brings disagreements, arguments, and strife, both within our families and in the wider world. It is so tempting to retaliate, to fight back, or to withdraw in anger. But Your Word teaches us to be peacemakers. Grant me the strength to respond with gentleness, to seek understanding, and to offer forgiveness, even when others are unwilling. Help me to be a conduit of Your peace, transforming discord into harmony through Your divine grace.
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
This prayer is a plea for the inner fortitude to remain peaceful when surrounded by conflict. It recognizes the natural human inclination towards defensiveness or aggression when faced with disagreement. The prayer asks for God’s strength to choose a different path—one of gentleness, understanding, and forgiveness. It emphasizes the role of believers as agents of God’s peace, capable of transforming tense situations through divine influence. This is the spirit of “doing it anyway”—actively pursuing peace and reconciliation, even when it requires personal sacrifice and goes against the prevailing currents of conflict.
5. Prayer for Honesty When People Lie
Lord, I ask for Your help to remain truthful, even when others are dishonest. The world can be a place where deception seems to thrive, and speaking the truth can feel risky or unpopular. It is easy to be tempted to bend the truth or to remain silent when lies are spoken. But You are the God of truth. Give me the courage to speak honestly, to stand for what is right, and to be a person of integrity, regardless of the consequences. May my words always be seasoned with grace and truth, reflecting Your unwavering faithfulness.
“Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” – John 8:32
This prayer addresses the challenge of maintaining honesty in an environment where dishonesty is prevalent. It acknowledges the potential risks and temptations associated with speaking the truth. The prayer seeks courage and integrity, asking God to empower the believer to be truthful regardless of external pressures or potential negative outcomes. It highlights the liberating power of truth, aligning personal conduct with God’s character. This is about “doing it anyway”—choosing integrity and truthfulness, trusting in God’s ultimate vindication and the freedom that comes from living authentically.
6. Prayer for Integrity When Cheated
Heavenly Father, I pray for the strength to act with integrity, even when I am wronged or taken advantage of. It is deeply frustrating and painful to be cheated, to have our trust betrayed, or to be treated unfairly. The temptation to retaliate or to become bitter is strong. But You call us to a higher standard. Help me to respond with grace, to forgive those who have wronged me, and to continue to act honorably, trusting that You will bring justice and vindicate my cause. May my actions always reflect Your righteous character, even in the face of injustice.
“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21
This prayer focuses on maintaining personal integrity when faced with unfair treatment or deception. It acknowledges the emotional pain and the strong desire for retribution that arises from being cheated. The prayer asks for the strength to respond with grace and forgiveness, rather than bitterness or vengeance. It encourages continuing to act honorably, trusting in God’s ultimate justice. This embodies the principle of “doing it anyway”—choosing a response of goodness and righteousness, even when wronged, thereby overcoming evil with good through divine empowerment.
7. Prayer for Humility When Praised
Lord, I thank You for the gifts and talents You have bestowed upon me. When people acknowledge my abilities or successes, it is easy to feel pride and to take credit for myself. But I know that all good things come from You. Help me to receive praise with humility, to give You the glory, and to remember that my abilities are merely tools You have entrusted to me. May I always use them for Your purposes, remaining grounded and grateful, recognizing that true worth comes from You alone.
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
This prayer addresses the challenge of receiving praise without succumbing to pride. It acknowledges the natural human tendency to feel flattered and to internalize compliments. The prayer asks for humility, guiding the believer to attribute all success and ability to God and to use gifts for His glory. It emphasizes that salvation and all good things are gifts from God, preventing boasting. This is about “doing it anyway”—remaining humble and giving God credit, even when receiving accolades, thereby reflecting His grace and preventing self-exaltation.
8. Prayer for Generosity When Asked
Father, I pray for a generous spirit, willing to give when asked. Sometimes, we are hesitant to share what we have, fearing we won’t have enough for ourselves or that our resources will be depleted. The desire to hold onto our possessions can be strong. But You have called us to be stewards, to share abundantly. Help me to give freely and cheerfully, trusting that You will provide for my needs. May my generosity be a testament to Your abundant provision and a blessing to others, knowing that what we give away, You multiply.
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” – Luke 6:38
This prayer is about cultivating a spirit of generosity, especially when faced with requests for help. It acknowledges the human tendency towards scarcity thinking and the reluctance to part with possessions. The prayer asks for a willing heart to give freely, trusting in God’s promise of abundant provision. It encourages cheerful giving, understanding that generosity is an act of stewardship and faith. This is the essence of “doing it anyway”—sharing what we have, even when it feels difficult, because we trust in God’s unfailing ability to supply all our needs and to bless our giving.
9. Prayer for Strength When Weak
Lord, I turn to You when I feel my own strength failing. There are moments when life’s burdens feel too heavy, and our own reserves are depleted. We are not meant to carry everything on our own. Your Word promises that Your strength is made perfect in our weakness. Help me to recognize my limitations and to lean on Your power, not my own. Grant me the resilience to keep going, knowing that through You, even in my weakest moments, I can accomplish Your will and find victory.
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
This prayer is a direct appeal for divine strength when personal reserves are depleted. It acknowledges human frailty and the reality of feeling weak. The prayer embraces this weakness as an opportunity to experience God’s power more fully, relying on His grace rather than self-sufficiency. It encourages perseverance, trusting that God’s strength is sufficient to overcome any challenge. This is the heart of “doing it anyway”—continuing forward, not by our own might, but by the empowering presence of Christ within us, finding victory in our surrendered weakness.
10. Prayer for Hope When Discouraged
Heavenly Father, I pray for Your hope to fill my heart when discouragement sets in. It is easy to lose heart when things do not go as planned, when challenges seem overwhelming, or when our efforts appear fruitless. The darkness of despair can feel suffocating. But You are the God of hope. Remind me of Your promises, of Your faithfulness, and of the ultimate victory You have secured. Help me to hold onto faith, to believe in a brighter future, and to keep moving forward, knowing that joy comes in the morning.
“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” – Romans 15:4
This prayer seeks divine hope to combat feelings of discouragement. It recognizes the natural human experience of losing heart when faced with adversity or setbacks. The prayer asks God to illuminate His promises and His faithfulness, rekindling faith in a positive future. It encourages holding onto hope and persevering, trusting in God’s assurance that joy will eventually follow sorrow. This is about “doing it anyway”—maintaining a hopeful outlook and continuing to press on, even when feeling down, by drawing strength from God’s Word and His unwavering promises.
11. Prayer for Perseverance When Tired
Lord, I ask for the endurance to keep going when I feel utterly exhausted. The journey of faith and service can be long and demanding, often leaving us feeling drained and weary. It is tempting to give up, to rest indefinitely, or to simply stop trying. But You call us to run the race with perseverance. Grant me the strength to push through fatigue, to find renewed energy in Your presence, and to continue faithfully in the tasks You have set before me, knowing that my labor in You is never in vain.
“Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” – Galatians 6:9
This prayer is a plea for the strength to persevere when physical or emotional exhaustion sets in. It acknowledges the reality of weariness in the pursuit of faith and service. The prayer asks for the ability to overcome fatigue, finding renewed vigor through God’s presence. It encourages continuing faithfully in one’s duties, trusting that diligent effort will eventually yield a reward. This is the essence of “doing it anyway”—refusing to quit when tired, but pressing on with renewed determination, assured that God honors persistent effort and faithfulness.
12. Prayer for Forgiveness When Hurt
Father, I pray for a forgiving heart, even when I have been deeply wounded. It is one of the hardest commands to obey: to forgive those who have caused us pain, betrayal, or offense. The wounds can feel too deep, the hurt too great to let go. But You have forgiven us immeasurably. Help me to release the bitterness, to let go of the desire for revenge, and to extend the same grace You have shown me. May I find freedom and healing in choosing to forgive, knowing that this is Your will for my life.
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32
This prayer addresses the profound difficulty of forgiving those who have caused us pain. It acknowledges the depth of hurt that can make forgiveness seem impossible. The prayer asks for God’s help in releasing bitterness and extending grace, mirroring the forgiveness received from God through Christ. It highlights the freedom and healing that come from choosing to forgive. This is about “doing it anyway”—actively choosing forgiveness, even when it is painful, because it aligns with God’s command and leads to personal liberation and spiritual growth.
13. Prayer for Patience When Annoyed
Lord, grant me the patience to endure when I am provoked or irritated. Daily life presents countless small annoyances—delays, misunderstandings, difficult people—that can easily fray our nerves. It is so easy to become impatient, to react with frustration, or to speak harsh words. But You call us to be patient, to bear with one another in love. Help me to respond with gentleness and understanding, to count to ten, and to remember that You are working in all situations. May I be a source of calm and peace, rather than irritation.
“The Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:5
This prayer seeks the virtue of patience in the face of daily annoyances and provocations. It recognizes how easily minor irritations can lead to impatience and negative reactions. The prayer asks for God’s help in responding with gentleness and understanding, rather than frustration. It encourages a calm demeanor, reflecting God’s own patient love. This is about “doing it anyway”—choosing patience and grace in irritating moments, trusting that God is guiding our hearts and that enduring these small trials builds character and reflects His nature.
14. Prayer for Joy When Sad
Heavenly Father, I ask for Your joy to sustain me when sadness overwhelms me. There are times when grief, loss, or difficult circumstances cast a shadow over our hearts, making it hard to find any reason to smile. The weight of sorrow can feel unbearable. But Your Word says that joy is found in Your presence. Help me to seek You, to remember Your goodness, and to trust that even in the midst of tears, Your joy can be a wellspring of strength and hope. May I find reasons to praise You, even when my heart is heavy.
“Though the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” – Habakkuk 3:17-18
This prayer is a plea for divine joy to counteract feelings of sadness and grief. It acknowledges the reality of sorrow and the difficulty of finding happiness during dark times. The prayer encourages seeking God’s presence as the source of true joy and remembering His goodness. It emphasizes finding reasons to praise Him, even amidst pain. This is about “doing it anyway”—choosing to cultivate joy and praise, not based on circumstances, but on the unchanging character and promises of God, finding strength in His presence.
15. Prayer for Faith When Doubting
Lord, I pray for an increase of faith when doubt creeps into my heart. Doubts are a natural part of the human experience, and sometimes they can shake our confidence in God’s promises and His plan. It is easy to question when things are unclear or when answers seem delayed. But You are faithful, even when we are not. Help me to hold onto the truths I know, to trust in Your unseen work, and to believe even when I cannot see. May my faith be a shield against doubt, a steadfast anchor in the storm.
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” – Hebrews 11:1
This prayer seeks to strengthen faith when doubt arises. It recognizes that questioning is a common human experience that can challenge one’s trust in God. The prayer asks for an increase in faith, encouraging reliance on known truths and trust in God’s unseen work. It frames faith as a substance and evidence, providing an anchor during times of uncertainty. This is about “doing it anyway”—choosing to believe and trust, even when doubt is present, by focusing on God’s character and promises, allowing faith to be the guiding force.
16. Prayer for Courage When Afraid
Father, I ask for Your courage to face my fears. Fear can paralyze us, preventing us from taking steps of faith, speaking truth, or pursuing God’s calling. The unknown, potential failure, or the disapproval of others can be terrifying. But You have not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Help me to trust in Your protection and guidance, to step out boldly in obedience, and to face challenges with a courageous heart, knowing that You are with me.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
This prayer is a plea for courage to overcome fear. It acknowledges how fear can immobilize individuals and hinder their progress in faith and obedience. The prayer invokes God’s promise of power, love, and a sound mind, contrasting it with a spirit of fear. It encourages stepping out boldly, trusting in God’s presence and guidance. This is about “doing it anyway”—acting with courage despite feeling afraid, by relying on God’s strength and assurance, thereby moving forward in faith and obedience.
17. Prayer for Wisdom When Confused
Lord, I seek Your wisdom when I am faced with difficult decisions and confusion. Life often presents us with complex situations where the right path is not clear. We may feel lost, unsure of which direction to take or how to proceed. Your Word promises that if we ask for wisdom, You will give it generously. Grant me clarity of thought, discernment, and the insight to make choices that honor You and align with Your will. Help me to trust Your guidance, even when the way forward is not immediately obvious.
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5
This prayer asks for divine wisdom when facing confusion and difficult choices. It recognizes that life’s complexities can leave individuals feeling lost and uncertain about the best course of action. The prayer invokes God’s promise to generously provide wisdom to those who ask. It seeks clarity, discernment, and insight to make God-honoring decisions. This is about “doing it anyway”—making decisions and moving forward, even with uncertainty, by actively seeking and trusting in God’s wisdom to guide the way.
18. Prayer for Humility When Wronged
Father, I pray for the humility to admit when I am wrong and to seek reconciliation. It is difficult to acknowledge our own faults, especially when we feel justified in our actions or when we have been hurt by others. Pride can make it hard to apologize or to mend broken relationships. But true strength lies in humility. Help me to be willing to say “I am sorry,” to take responsibility for my part, and to seek peace and restoration, knowing that humility draws us closer to You and to one another.
“Whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he whosoever shall humble himself shall be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12
This prayer focuses on the humility required to admit fault and seek reconciliation. It acknowledges the pride that often prevents people from apologizing or taking responsibility for their actions. The prayer asks for the willingness to say “I am sorry” and to mend relationships, recognizing that humility is a sign of strength and draws one closer to God. This is about “doing it anyway”—choosing humility and reconciliation, even when it is personally challenging, because it aligns with God’s values and fosters healthier relationships.
19. Prayer for Gratitude When Things Are Difficult
Lord, I ask for a grateful heart, even when my circumstances are challenging. It is easy to be thankful when life is good and blessings are abundant. But true gratitude is found in acknowledging God’s goodness even in the midst of trials. Help me to see the lessons learned, the strength gained, and the presence of Your love, even when things are hard. May I always find reasons to praise You, to thank You for Your unfailing faithfulness, and to trust that You are working all things for my ultimate good.
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
This prayer is a call for gratitude, particularly during difficult times. It acknowledges that thankfulness is often easier when circumstances are favorable. The prayer encourages recognizing God’s goodness and faithfulness even amidst trials, seeing lessons learned and strength gained. It emphasizes trusting that God is working for one’s ultimate good. This is about “doing it anyway”—choosing to give thanks, regardless of the situation, by focusing on God’s character and promises, thereby cultivating a resilient and faith-filled spirit.
20. Prayer for Commitment to Serve
Heavenly Father, I pray for a renewed commitment to serve others, no matter the cost. Your example is one of selfless service, of giving Your life for the sake of humanity. It is easy to become comfortable, to focus on our own needs, and to shy away from the sacrifices required to truly serve. But You have called us to be Your hands and feet in the world. Help me to remain dedicated to serving those around me with love, compassion, and unwavering devotion, trusting that in serving others, I am serving You.
“For ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” – Galatians 5:13
This prayer seeks a renewed dedication to serving others, even when it requires sacrifice. It acknowledges the tendency to become comfortable and to prioritize personal needs over the needs of others. The prayer invokes Jesus’ example of selfless service and asks for the strength to be God’s hands and feet in the world. It emphasizes serving with love and devotion, recognizing that serving others is serving God. This is about “doing it anyway”—committing to serve, regardless of the personal cost, because it is a divine calling and an expression of love for God and neighbor.
Conclusion
Mother Teresa’s “do it anyway” principles offer a profound spiritual compass for navigating life’s complexities with faith and resilience. These twenty prayers, inspired by her unwavering commitment, are not mere words but invitations to a deeper reliance on God’s strength. They remind us that love, kindness, honesty, and perseverance are not always easy, but they are always worthwhile when rooted in divine purpose. Each prayer is a step towards aligning our will with God’s, trusting that He works through our faithful efforts, even when the outcomes are uncertain or the challenges immense.
As you reflect on these prayers, consider how they can transform your daily walk. When faced with ingratitude, remember to be kind anyway. When doubt arises, choose faith anyway. When fear grips your heart, step out in courage anyway. This is the essence of a life lived in devotion—a life that consistently chooses love, truth, and service, not because it is simple, but because it is God’s calling. May these prayers empower you to embrace challenges with a spirit of unwavering trust, knowing that your faithfulness, however small it may seem, is significant in God’s eyes and contributes to His greater plan. Let your life be a testament to the power of doing it anyway, with God’s grace as your guide and His love as your motivation.