p. 167 | FAMILY PRAYER by Emma M. French

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 23, 1876

FAMILY PRAYER.

By Emma M. French

Perhaps a few words on this subject will not be amiss. For some time past, but especially since I commenced keeping the Sabbath in July last, I have felt that family worship was a duty; and the burden of the duty seemed to devolve upon me. I tried to think otherwise; that I was mistaken; that the Lord did not require me to bear so heavy a cross; but every time I kneeled in prayer that duty was presented before me, and the blessing of God was in a great measure withheld.

I endeavored to frame some satisfactory excuse, but failed. I had made arrangements to canvass for the periodicals, and while I was asking God to bless my attempt at missionary labor, I was made to feel that my efforts would not be crowned with success, that my labors abroad would not be acceptable unto God, while I failed to be a true missionary at home. My mouth was stopped. I realized how vain were all excuses; how useless to try to serve God, and yet neglect known duty. I was dumb before the Lord. Since that time, I have been trying to perform this duty, and I am helped of God.

I write now because I know of others who are standing where I stood. O brethren and sisters, hesitate no longer. Do not, I implore you, neglect so important a means of grace. God cannot bless you as he would, while you neglect it; and you cannot expect his approving smile. The cross is heavy, I admit; but his grace is sufficient for us. Let us honor God by believing his word, by trusting his promises, and by letting our light so shine that others may see our good works and glorify him.

Pray for me, that I may go forth in the strength of the mighty God of Israel, and that success may attend my labors.

Emma M. French.