pray strenuously , therefore , to the merciful defender of our lives , the only refuge of the afflicted , the lamb of god who has taken away the sins of the world , to keep me safe from harm with his sheltering right hand as i go among the dens of wolves ; that , when my loins are girded as if for battle , the father all-merciful may place a blazing torch of truth in my hand to enlighten the hearts of the pagans to the glory of christ .