THE HOUR OF PRAYER by M. D. Byington

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 24, 1860

THE HOUR OF PRAYER.

By M. D. Byington

To the Christian, what is more sacred than the hour of secret prayer? What so sweetly calms the soul to rest, unburdens the weary spirit, smoothes the rugged pathway of life, and fills the mind with that heavenly peace which passeth knowledge as the hour when the spirit seeks communion with God. Those only who daily draw near to God know its worth and have proved its value. It is a shelter against the tempests of temptation and adverse winds to which the heart is ever exposed, while trying to seek that path which the Saviour has said is straight, and the gate which is narrow. However straight this path may prove, and into whatever narrow windings it may lead, humble prayer in faith to Him whose ear is ever open to the cry of the righteous will disperse the darkness, and his mercy uphold when their feet have well nigh slipped. But this is not the only value of prayer.

If we would finally enter the gates with the righteous nation that keepeth the truth, if we would have it said to us, "Well done faithful servant," and finally secure a treasure in heaven where moth will not corrupt nor thieves break through and steal, it must be by consecration to God, and with fervent and effectual prayer.

Those who seek the wealth of this world are not content with the comforts of life. The carnal mind is constantly reaching out after more and more, until the will is wholly engaged in laying up a treasure that soon waxeth old.

The Christian who is seeking for an immortal treasure is not satisfied with now and then a foretaste of it, but is constantly reaching out for more and more of the heavenly manna. When new conflicts present themselves, he does not fold his arms and say, God will do it; but the sentiment of his heart is, I am unworthy, yet Jesus has paid the full price for my salvation. He has promised to hear me when I call upon him. He bids me come and plead all my wants before him; and if I seek his glory, sooner will heaven and earth pass than one of his promises remain unfulfilled.

He carefully traces each motive lest it lead to some selfish end, and consecrates all anew to God. As each care is cast upon the Lord and his grace implored, as each petition comes up before the throne, though yet unredressed, and as assurance is felt that it is heard in heaven, what better prepares the mind to go forth and act for God, facing all the unseen obstacles with holy confidence.

Perhaps the mind goes out for the salvation of a dear friend, a parent, brother, sister, or companion. The promise of God is, "Ask and ye shall receive." Though to the outward sense hope is vain, yet there is a God who heareth prayer. Perhaps months and years elapse ere the work is done. Yet the faithful soul pleads still and trusts the promise, pleading with still more fervency, "I will not let thee go." Then how the heart expands and enlarges, awaiting the realization of its faith. He who has promised to turn the hearts of children to their parents and parents to their children, will perform. Ask and it shall be given you. And whatsoever we ask we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things which are pleasing in his sight. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by his Spirit which he hath given us.

M. D. BYINGTON.