THE OPEN REWARD OF SECRET PRAYER
The reward of secret prayer is seen in the fruits of the graces secured by it. The performance of this duty helps to a consistent, holy, happy work. The light of the Christian who prays in his closet shines. His humble holy walk will be seen. His influence will be felt. He will be saved from many of the inconsistencies which spoil Christian character and influence. His piety will be constant, vigorous and bright. The church and the world will feel that he is a holy man, that he walks with God. Thus God openly rewards those who pray in secret, by giving them an acknowledged and an established character of piety; by making them the medium through which the truths, and power of religion shine out most brilliantly and convincingly to the glory of God and the praise of his grace in Christ Jesus. 2. God will reward openly those who pray in secret, by making them in a high degree useful. They are prepared to exert an influence by the conviction produced in the minds of others, of the reality and sincerity of their piety. They have a spirit of prayer and zeal by the grace imparted to them in the closet. Where they go a holy influence is felt, and the minds of Christians are started to renewed diligence and prayer. These praying men and women are the pillars of the church. God blesses their labors in the edification and comfort of his people, and in the salvation of souls. Where there is a church of such Christians, their influence will be mighty. The cause of God will be promoted and great good accomplished through their instrumentality. 3. God will openly reward those who perform this duty at the day of judgment and in the world of retribution. At that day when the secrets of all hearts shall be revealed, it will be seen what effects have been produced by such prayer on individuals, families, churches, and the world. Those who have been faithful in this duty will doubtless have brought forth hundreds, saved in answer to those prayers offered when no eye but the eye of God could see them.—These souls shall shine like gems in the crown of their rejoicing forever and ever. These Aarons and Hurs, these praying Hannahs shall shine like stars forever in the kingdom of God. The whole universe shall see the wonderful effects which have followed their prayers, and all holy beings shall witness their elevation on account of them in the glories of heaven.