The Serenity Prayer is spoken by millions, but how many truly understand what they are asking of God when they say it? Words are powerful, and this prayer carries even more weight when we pray it with understanding and faith.
There are two forms of the Serenity Prayer: the shortened version used by Alcoholics Anonymous, and the original full version rooted in Christian faith. Let’s walk through the complete version together.
“God, grant me the serenity…”
When we say God, we’re speaking to the one true God. Serenity is calmness, peace, and being untroubled. We are asking Him to give us His peace in the middle of life’s storms.
“…to accept the things I cannot change.”
There are so many things outside of our control — our past, other people, traffic, delays, and countless daily frustrations. Accepting what we cannot change frees us from wasting energy on what only God can handle.
“…the courage to change the things I can.”
We may not change others, but we can change ourselves. We can choose healthier habits, adjust our routines, and surround ourselves with people who lift us up in faith. Change takes courage — but God provides the strength.
“…and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Wisdom is discernment — knowing when to act and when to let go. Too often, we let emotions or the influence of others cloud our judgment. But God promises wisdom when we ask Him in faith (James 1:5).
The Full Christian Version
The prayer doesn’t stop there. The original version continues:
- “Living one day at a time…”
Don’t live stuck in the past or anxious about the future. Each day is a gift — seize it fully. - “Enjoying one moment at a time…”
Even simple acts of kindness can bring joy that lasts far beyond the moment. Every second is an opportunity to live out Christ’s love. - “Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace…”
Struggles are part of life, but they don’t have to steal our joy. With Christ, pain can refine us and draw us closer to Him. - “Taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it…”
This world is broken. People will hurt us, and we will fail too. But Jesus calls us to live with grace and truth in the middle of imperfection. - “Trusting that You will make all things right…”
This is faith. Believing that God will redeem what is broken and carry us through until His work is complete. - “…if I surrender to Your will; so that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with You forever in the next.”
Surrender is the key. Joy here is temporary; eternal joy with Him is forever.
Reflection
The Serenity Prayer is not just a set of words to recite — it is a daily commitment to trust God’s sovereignty, accept His will, and walk in His peace.
Scripture Connection
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27 (NIV)
Prayer
Lord, help me to accept what I cannot change, to find the courage to change what I can, and to seek Your wisdom in every decision. Teach me to live one day at a time, to surrender to Your will, and to rest in the promise of eternal joy with You. Amen.