A Day of Special Prayer by F. M. W.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 25, 1910

A Day of Special Prayer

By F. M. W.

IN the life of the Christian, every day should be a day of prayer. But while this is true, it is appropriate, in view of particular needs, that there should be set apart special occasions for seeking God. This practise has been observed by the church throughout its history. Many times did Israel of old, by fasting and humiliation of soul, seek a special blessing from on high. God always heard their cries. Those coming to him with true purpose of heart were not sent empty away.

A time of special need has arisen in connection with the work of God's people to-day. Like Israel of old, when entering the land of Canaan, they are asked to go up to the great and walled cities, and to enter into fierce conflict. This conflict is not with the armies of men, but with evil principles and powers of wickedness. They would well-nigh despair of victory were it not that God is their portion, and he will go before them to subdue and convert the hearts of the impenitent.

The greatness of the task and the earnestness of the call to do this work for our large cities entail upon us a solemn and fearful responsibility. The obstacles and the difficulties before the workers require more than the resources of feeble men; but the necessary resources are not lacking. All power is of God, and he is willing to bestow that power upon a consecrated people. Hence, the call to-day is a call to prayer, to earnest, importunate prayer. Who will take part in this solemn service?

“Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the Lord your God?”

“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?”

A call to prayer is a call to confession of sin, to earnest heart-searching, to a removal of the stones of stumbling, to the righting of every wrong. The need for the occasion is seen in the millions who know not God. The call is to those who are carrying this movement to the world. The blessings to be sought are Heaven's resources of spiritual power. The means by which the coveted blessing may be gained is by complete consecration to God and his service. The special day appointed is September 17. Between now and that time, let us make every day a day of earnest seeking after God. Thus, more and more shall we enter into the fulness of his blessing, and be prepared to receive the abundant outpouring which his people may confidently expect upon that occasion.

“Then will the Lord be jealous for his land, and pity his people. Yea, the Lord will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen.”

This promised blessing is for the church to-day. May every member seek to be a sharer therein. F. M. W.