It’s usually credited to the American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, who used a version of it in sermons in the 1930s and 40s. Alcoholics Anonymous adopted it in the early 1940s, which is how most people first meet it. Researchers have found similar wording from around the same time, so its exact origin is debated, but the version below is the one most people know.
Historical Context
The Serenity Prayer, Laid Out for Lettering
God,
grant me the serenity
to accept the things
I cannot change,
courage
to change the things I can,
and wisdom
to know the difference.
Calligraphy Tips
- Make the three virtues the stars. Letter “serenity,” “courage” and “wisdom” larger, in a flourished script, and the rest in a simple hand.
- Sketch in pencil first. Draw light guidelines and plan the line breaks so no line is crowded.
- Centre it. The prayer looks best centred, with generous margins.
- Use one accent colour. Gold or a deep blue on the three key words is enough.
- Pray while you write. Letter slowly, and let each line be its own prayer.
A Prayer Before Lettering
Lord, steady my hand and quiet my mind.
As I write these words, write them on my heart.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- As a gift for someone celebrating a recovery milestone.
- For a new home, office or hospital room.
- When you need to slow down and pray with your hands.
Scripture Connection
“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
The Serenity Prayer ends with a request for wisdom. James promises God gives it generously, to anyone who asks.
Related prayers
For the Twelve Steps, see the 3rd Step Prayer and 11th Step Prayer. For lettering Scripture, the Prayer for Creativity.