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Praying to Audiences

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 24, 1912

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 89, No. 43.

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Praying to Audiences

PRAYER is the communion of the human soul with God. It should be addressed to him. The one who approaches the throne of grace, whether it be in the secret place or in the public congregation, should enter into the secret of his presence conscious only that his prayer is heard of God, and forgetful of every human listener. It is to be regretted, however, that there are many prayers uttered which are addressed to the audience rather than to the great Creator. A prayer made on a public occasion recently in Boston was declared to be “the most eloquent prayer ever addressed to a Boston audience.” The audience approved its beautiful phraseology and well-rounded sentences. In God’s sight the truly eloquent petition is that which comes from an overflowing heart of love and gratitude, which recognizes the weakness of the petitioner, and that salvation and help can come only through the Lord Jesus Christ. It is better always to pray the prayer of the publican than the prayer of the Pharisee.