p. 22 | Prayer | AdventAI

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 4, 1909

Prayer

DAVID LIVINGSTONE died May 4, 1873, in Chitambo's Village, in Ilala, Central Africa. He died while kneeling in prayer at his bedside,—died, as he had lived, in prayer. This was the source of his power, for self-denial and courage. His prayers for Africa are being answered. This land that has sat in darkness is seeing a great light.

Victory in the Christian warfare is obtained only through prayer. Christ's prayers have brought constant triumphs in the progress of his glorious gospel into all the world. His prayers for the world have been, and are now being, answered. Men can not truly pray, “Thy kingdom come,” and not make earnest and self-sacrificing efforts to bring that kingdom.

Prayer is the source of all our educational energies. By it our children and youth are to be equipped for service. Without the habit of sincere prayer they go forth into the world, weak and impotent. The custom of heartfelt prayer is a most important and valuable preparation for missionaries. It takes away formality, and gives instead the fire of a godly life.

It was Christ's prayers, his life of prayer, that led those whom he daily taught, to express the desire, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Will not our students covet this same teaching if we pray aright? Fiery trials are before the people in the work of God. It is only devout prayer that can give the necessary courage and the preparation for the conflict. > “I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless; > > Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. > > Where is Death's sting? Where, Grave, thy victory? > > I triumph still if Thou abide with me.”