It is short, it is old-fashioned, and for millions of people it has been the first real prayer they ever said.
Historical Context
The Big Book says the wording “is, of course, quite optional,” as long as the idea is expressed “without reservation.” The point is not the words but the decision.
The Third Step Prayer
God, I offer myself to Thee
to build with me and to do with me as Thou wilt.
Relieve me of the bondage of self,
that I may better do Thy will.
Take away my difficulties,
that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help
of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of life.
May I do Thy will always!
What the Prayer Asks
- “I offer myself.” Not my drinking, not my problems: all of me.
- “The bondage of self.” The Big Book’s diagnosis is that self-centredness is the root of the problem.
- “Take away my difficulties.” Not for my comfort, but so that others can see what God did.
- “May I do Thy will always.” The decision, renewed daily.
A Short Daily Version
God, I give you my will and my life again today.
Take the bondage of self off me.
Show me what you want me to do, and help me do it.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- When taking the Third Step, aloud, with a sponsor.
- Every morning, as a renewal of the decision.
- When self-will starts running the show again.
- Before a meeting, or before calling your sponsor.
Scripture Connection
“Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” — Luke 22:42
Jesus prayed this in Gethsemane, the night before he died, in agony. The Third Step Prayer has the same shape: honest about the struggle, and ending in surrender rather than control.
Related prayers
The next prayers in the Big Book are the 7th Step Prayer and the evening review on the 10th Step Prayer page. Before a meeting, many groups use the Set Aside Prayer.