PRAY FOR THE MESSENGERS.
By M. E. McKee
We often read in the REVIEW appeals like the following: “Brethren, pray for us;” “Pray for the good work in this place;” “Brethren and sisters, we need your prayers.” Now we believe these dear servants of God mean just what they say. They know that without God’s help they can accomplish nothing; and they have faith to believe that the prayers of God’s people will avail much in their behalf; therefore they are not ashamed to ask for them. They are greatly rejoiced and strengthened when they feel that earnest prayer is being offered for them. Let us, then, be alive to this duty and sacred privilege. Many can be workers, but few can be preachers. All are not eloquent; all are not gifted. Some have no means at their control; many of us can do little else than pray. Then let us pray that the preacher may be so filled with the spirit of the message, and declare with such force and power the solemn truths committed to him, that his words may pierce like a sword, and the truth burn its way to the heart, convincing and converting those who will give heed. Perhaps the preacher takes the desk, worn and weary; he feels that many eyes are upon him, that many will listen with eagerness for the words he shall speak. A silent prayer ascends to God for help at that hour. He begins almost with a sigh; but his strength revives, words flow freely, the power of God rests upon him; and now at the close that vast audience seems chained, hearts are stirred to their depths. There is something in that sermon back of the speaker. He is conscious of it too. The prayer of faith has availed in his behalf. It may be from the many, or it may be from the quiet listener in the corner, who never forgets to pray for the minister. Said a dear sister whose work on earth has long since closed, “I can never look upon one of God’s chosen ones standing before the people to dispense the bread of life without breathing an earnest prayer in his behalf.” Dear brethren and sisters, we all know how precious the thought that One is interceding in Heaven for us; let us then ever remember to intercede with Christ in behalf of the messengers; and may God raise up many others who shall go forth well able to proclaim the last message of mercy. M. E. McKee.