PRAYER THAT OBTAINS by Inland

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Aug 1, 1900

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 26, No. 31.

PRAYER THAT OBTAINS.

By Inland

PRAYER is man's means of communing with God. In it he pours forth his desires for help and his praise for mercies received. The men of prayer have been the men who have prevailed with God and with their fellows. There have been Pharisees who have uttered eloquent words, but they have failed to gain the ear of the "Majesty on high." The failure came about because they prayed to be seen and heard of men.

Prevailing prayer is one that springs from the soul as the spontaneous expression of a heart-felt need. The publican's prayer was answered, because the man was genuine through and through. There was humility there deep as the sin was great; yet there was boldness to come before the throne of grace. The humility arose from a sense of sin and personal unworthiness; the assurance arose from a faith that was unwavering in a God who will abundantly pardon. The prayer that obtains is the prayer of faith; for as is our faith, so will it be granted unto us. We ask of the King, and we must remember that He gives like a king. He gave His Son—this is evidence that He will grant great things. O, for a faith that dares ask God to bestow great blessings!

Definiteness is a characteristic of prevailing prayer. We often pray for everything in general and for nothing in particular, and we are answered accordingly. The widow in the parable of the unjust judge was specific: "Avenge me of mine adversary." That one thing she sought, and she sought it tenaciously. One definite prayer is more effective than a hundred general ones. Paul prayed that the thorn in the flesh be removed, and he prayed earnestly, and the answer was specific. God's grace was given, and his servant triumphed in spite of his infirmity—perhaps we ought to say because of it.

Importunity is another characteristic. We often give up just before the blessing descends, and it is withheld. It is the "continual coming" that gains the point. Elijah prayed till the rain came, and Jacob persevered until the blessing was granted. The Saviour prayed repeatedly that the cup pass away. The cup did not pass, but angels came to minister unto Him.

Resignation is necessary. "Not my will, but Thine be done." God knows best; let us acknowledge that, and if wise He will grant the petition. This is reasonable, and it is the reasonable prayer that will be answered. Lord, teach us how to pray, and we shall prevail.—Inland.