GIVE THANKS IN PRAYER AND MELODY

"The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him." Ex. 15:2

It was in hours of solitary prayer that Jesus in His earthlife received wisdom and power. Let the youth follow His example in finding at dawn and twilight a quiet season for communion with their Father in heaven. And throughout the day let them lift up their hearts to God. AT every step of our way He says, "I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand;....fear not; I will help thee."

Could our children learn these lessons in the morning of their years,what freshness and power, what joy and sweetness, would be brought into their lives! - Education, p. 259.

As the children of Israel, journeying through the wilderness, cheered their way by the music of sacred song, so God bids His children to-day gladden their pilgrim life. There are few means more effective for fixing His words in the memory than repeating them in song. And such song has wonderful power. It has power to subdue rude and uncultivated natures; power to quicken thought and to awaken sympathy, to promote harmony of action, and to banish the gloom and foreboding that destroy courage and weaken effort......

Let there be singing in the home, of songs that are sweet and pure, and there will be fewer words of censure, and more of cheerfulness and hope and joy. Let there be singing in the school, and the pupils will be drawn closer to God, to their teachers, and to one another.

As a part of religious service, singing is as much an act of worship as is prayer. Indeed, many a song is prayer. - Ibid., pp. 167, 168

PRAISE THE LORD

"I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth." Ps. 34:1.

Shall all our devotional exercises consist in asking and receiving? Shall we be always thinking of our wants, and never of the benefits we receive? Shall we be recipients of His mercies, and never express our gratitude to God, never praise Him for What He has done for us? We would abound more and more in the love of God, and have more bestowed to praise Him for. You who complain that God does not hear yoru prayers, change the present order, and mingle praise with your petitions. When you consider his goodness and mercies, you will find that he will consi der your wants.

Pray, pray earnestly and without ceasing, but do not forget to praise. It becomes every child of god to vindicate his character. you can magnify the lord; you can show the power of sustaining grace. There are multitudes who do not appreciate the great love of God nor the diivine compassion of Jesus. Thousands even rgard with disdain the marchless greace shown in the plan of redemption. all who are partakers of this great salvation are not clear in this matter. they do not cultivate grateful hearts.

but the theme of redemption is one that the angels desire to look into; it will be the science and the song of the ransomed throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. Is it not owrthy of careful thought and study now? Should we not praise God with heart and soul and voice for his "wonderful works to the children of men"? - Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 317, 318.

AS FOR ME, I WILL CALL UPON GOD

"As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice." Ps. 55:16, 17.

As we make Christ our daily companion, we shall feel that the powers of an unseen world are all around us; and by looking unto Jesus we shall become assimilated to His image. By beholding we become changed. The character is softened, refined, and ennobled for the heavenly kingdom. The sure result of or intercourse and fellowship with our lord will be intelligence in prayer. We are receiving a divine education, and this is illustrated in a life of diligence and zeal.

The soul that turns to God for its help, its support, its power, by daily, earnest prayer, will have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth and duty, lofty purposes of action, and a continual hungering and thristing after righteousness. By maintaining a connection with God, we shall be enabled to diffuse to others through our association with them, the light, the peace, the serenity that rule in our hearts. The strength acquired in prayer to God, united with persevering effort in training the mind in thoughtfulness and care-taking, prepares one for daily duties, and keeps the spirit in peace under all circumstances. - Mount of Blessing, p. 127.

We are living in a most solemn, important time of this earth's history. We are amid the perils of the last days. important and fearful events are before us...We should flee to the Word of God and to prayer, individually seeking the Lord earnestly, that we may find Him. We should make this our first business. - Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 53.

HOLY AND REVEREND IS HIS NAME

"He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name." Ps. 111:9.

Both in public and in private worship, it is our privilege to bow on our knees before the Lord when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, "kneeled down, and prayed." Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, "kneeled down, and prayed." Paul declared, "I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. Daniel "kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God."

True reverence for God is inspired by a sense of His infinite greatness and a realisation of His presence. With this sense of the unseen, every heart should be deeply impressed. The hour and place of prayer are sacred, because God is there; and as reverence is manifested in attitude and demeanor, the feeling that inspires it will be deepened. "Holy and reverend is His name," the psalmist declares. Angels, when they speak that name, veil their faces. With what reverence, then should we, who are fallen and sinful, take it upon our lips!

Well would it be for old and young to ponder those words of Scripture that show how the place marked by God's special presence should be regarded. - Gospel Workers, p. 178.

High-flown language is inappropriate in prayer, whether the petition be offered in the pulpit, in the family circle, or in secret. Especially should the one offering public prayer use simple language, that others may understand what is said and unite with the petition. - Ibid., p. 177.

IN THE MORNING I WILL PRAY TO THEE

"My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up." Ps. 5:3

When you rise in the morning, do you feel your helplessness, and your need of strength from God? and do you humbly, heartily make known your wants to your heavenly Father? If so, angels mark your prayers, and if these prayers have not gone forth out of feigned lips, when you are in danger of unconsciously doing wrong, and exerting an influence which will lead others to do wrong, your guardian angel will be by your side, prompting you to a better course, choosing your words for you, and influencing your actions.

If you feel in no danger, and if you offer no prayer for help and strength to resist temptations, you will be sure to go astray; your neglect of duty will be marked in the book of God in Heaven, and you will be found wanting in the trying day. - Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 363,364.

Morning and night obtain the victory for yourselves in your own family. Let not your daily labor keep you from this. Take time to pray, and as your pray, believe that god hears you. Have faith mixed with your prayers. You may not at all times feel the immediate answer; but then it is that faith is tried. You are proved to see whether you will trust i God, whether you have living, abiding faith. - Ibid, vol. 1, p. 167.

Those who thus connect themselves with God are acknowledged by Him as his sons and daughters. They are constantly reaching higher and still higher, obtaining clearer views of God and of eternity, until the Lord makes them channels of light and wisdom to the world. - Messages to Young People, p. 247.

AS LONG AS I LIVE I WILL CALL

"Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live." Ps. 116:2.

We should have the door of the heart open continually, and our invitation going up that Jesus may come and abide as a heavenly guest in the soul.

Although there may be a tainted, corrupted atmosphere around us, we need not breath its miasma, but may live in the pure air of heaven. We may close every door to impure imaginings and unholy thoughts by lifting the soul into the presence of God through sincere prayer. Those whose hearts are open to receive the support and blessing of God will walk in a holier atmosphere than that of earth, and will have constant communion with Heaven.

We need to have more distinct views of Jesus, and a fuller comprehension of the value of eternal realities. The beauty of holiness is to fill the hearts of God's children; and that this may be accomplished, we should seek for divine disclosures of heavenly things.

Let the soul be drawn out and upward, that god may grant us a breath of the heavenly atmosphere. We may keep so near to God that in every unexpected trial our thoughts will turn to Him as naturally as the lower turns to the sun. Keep your wants, your joys, your sorrows, your cares, and your fears, before God. You can not burden Him; you can not weary Him...Take to Him everything that perplexes the mind. Nothing is too great for Him to bear, for He holds up worlds, He rules over all the affairs of the universe. nothing that in any way concerns our peace is too small for Him to notice. - Steps to Christ, pp. 103-105.

EXAMPLE OF PAUL

"For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding." Col. 1:9.

The ship on which Paul and his companions were to continue their journey, was about to sail, and the brethren hastened on board. The apostle himself, however, chose to take the nearer route by land between Troas and Assos, meeting his companions at the latter city. This gave him a short season for meditation and prayer. The difficulties and dangers connected with his coming visit to Jerusalem, the attitude of the church there toward him and his work, as well as the condition of the churches and the interests of the gospel work in other fields, were subjects of earnest, anxious thought; and he took advantage of this special opportunity to seek God for strength and guidance. - Acts of the Apostles, pp. 391, 392

Pray in your closet; and as you go about your daily labor, let your heart be often uplifted to God. It was thus that Enoch walked with God. these silent prayers rise like precious incense before the throne of grace. Satan can not overcome him whose heart is thus stayed upon God.

There is no time or place in which it is inappropriate to offer up a petition to God. there is nothing that can prevent us form lifting up our hearts in the spirit of earnest prayer. In the crowds of the street, in the midst of a business engagement, we may send up a petition to God, and plead for divine guidance, as did Nehemiah when he made his request before King Artaxerxes. A closet of communion may be found wherever we are. - Steps to Christ, p. 103./

CONTINUING INSTANT IN PRAYER

"Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality."Rom. 12:12,13.

Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always, if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be "instant in prayer," to "continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." ..... Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God.

There is necessity for diligence in prayer; let nothing hinder you. Make every effort to keep open the communion between Jesus and your own soul. Seek every opportunity to go where prayer is wont to be made. Those who are really seeking for communion with God, will be seen in the prayer-meeting, faithful to do their duty, and earnest and anxious to reap all the benefits they can gain. they will improve every opportunity of placing themselves where they can receive the rays of light from heaven.

We should pray in the family circle; and above all we must not neglect secret prayer; for this is the life of the soul. It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is neglected. Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. In solitude let the soul be laid open to the inspecting eye of God. Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. No curiousear is to receive the burden of such petitions. in secret prayer the soul is free from surrounding influences, free from excitement. Calmly, yet fervently, will it reach out after God. Sweet and abiding will be the influence emanating from him who seeth in secret, whose ear is open to hear the prayer arising form the heart. - Steps to Christ, pp. 101-103.

WE WILL GIVE OURSELVES TO PRAYER

"But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the world." Acts 6:4.

Pray, yes, pray as you have never prayed before, that you may not be deluded by Satan's devices, that you may not be given up to a headless, careless, vain spirit, and attend to religious duties to quiet your own conscience. It is inappropriate for Christians in any age of the world to be lovers of pleasure, but how much more so now when the scenes of this earth's history are so soon to close.

Surely the foundation of your hope of everlasting life cannot be laid too sure. The welfare of your soul, and your eternal happiness depend upon whether your foundation is built upon Christ. While others are panting after earthly enjoyments, be ye panting after the unmistakable assurance of the love of God, earnestly, fervently crying, Who will show me how to make my calling and election sure? - Testimonies, vol. 2, pp.144,145

The darkness of the evil one incloses those who neglect to pray. The whispered temptations of the enemy entice them to sin; and it is all because they do not make use of the privileges that God has given them in the devine appointment of prayer. Why should the sons and daughters of God be reluctant to pray, when prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven's storehouse, where are treasured the boundless resources of omnipotence? Without unceasing prayer and diligence watchin, we are in danger of growing careless and of deviating from the right path. The adversary seeks continually to obstruct the way to the mercy-seat, that we may not be earnest supplication and faith obtain grace and power to resist temptation.  Steps to Christ,  pp.98, 99.

MUSE ON THE WORK OF HIS HANDS

"I remember the day's of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands." Ps. 143:5

The mercies of God surround you every moment;  and it would be profitable for you to consider how and whence your blessings come every day. Let the precious blessings of God awaken gratitude in you. You cannot number the blessings of God, the constant loving-kindness expressed to you, for they are as numerous as the refreshing drops of rain.

Clouds of mercy are hanging over you, and ready to drop upon you. If you will appreciate the valuable gift of salvation, you will be sensible of daily refreshment, of the protection and love of Jesus; you will be guided in the way of peace.

Look upon the glorious things of God in nature, and let your heart go out in gratitude to the Giver. There is in nature's book profitable study for the mind. Be not thankless and reckless. Open the eyes of your understanding; see the beautiful harmony in the laws of God in nature, and be awed, and reverence your Creator, the supreme Ruler of heaven and earth. - Messages to Young People, p. 409.

If the young would study the glorious works of God in nature, and his majesty and power as revealed in His Word, they would come from every such exercise with faculties quickened and elevated. A vigor would be received, having no kin to arrogance. by a contemplation of the marvels of divine power, the mind will learn that hardest but most useful of all lessons, that human wisdom, unless connected with the Infinite and sanctified by the grace of Christ, is foolishness. - Ibid., p. 253.

If we faithfully study the book of nature, we shall find it a fruitful source of contemplating the infinite love and power of God. - Ibid., pp. 365, 366.






 

MY SOUL THIRSTETH FOR GOD

"As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?" Psalms 42:1, 2

The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ, cries out continually for a deeper draught, and as you impart, you will receive in richer and more abundant measure.  Every revelation of God to the soul increases the capacity to know and to love.-mount of blessings,  p.37.

The cry of Christ to the thirsty soul is still going forth, and it appeals to us with even greater power than those who heard it in the temple on the last  day of the feast. The  fountain is open for all. The weary and  exhausted ones are offered the refreshing  draught of eternal life.- The Desire of Ages, p. 454.

The greatest victories gained for the cause of God are not the result of labored argument, ample facilities, wide influence, or abundace of means; they are gained in the audience chamber with God, when with earnest, agonizing faith men lay hold upon the mighty arm of power.

True faith and true prayer - how strong they are! as two arms by which the human suppliant lays hold upon the power of infinite Love. Faith is trusting in God, - believing that He loves us, and knows what is for our best good. Thus, instead of our own way, it leads us to choose His way. In place of our ignorance, it accepts His wisdom; in place of our weakness, his strength; in place of our sinfulness, His righteousness. Our lives, ourselves are already His; faith acknowledges His ownership and accepts its blessing. Truth, uprightness, purity, are pointed out as secrets of life's success. It is faith that puts us in possession of these - Gospel Workers, p. 259.

I HAVE REMEMBERED THY NAME IN THE NIGHT

"Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. I have remembered thy name, O Lord, in the night, and have kept thy law." Ps. 119:54, 55.

God's messengers must tarry long with Him, if they would have success in their work. The story is told of an old Lancashire woman who was listening to the reasons that her neighbors gave for their minister's success. They spoke of his gifts, of his style of address, of his manners. "Nay," said the old woman, "I will tell you what it is. your man is very thick with the Almighty.".

When men are as devoted as Elijah was and possess the faith that he had, God will reveal himself as he did then. When men plead with Lord as did Jacob, the results that were seen then will again be seen. Power will come from God in answer to the prayer of faith....

The Saviour loved the solitude of the mountain in which to hold commune with His Father. Through the day he laboured earnestly to save men from destruction. he healed the sick, comforted the mourning, called the dead to life, and brought hope and cheer to the despairing. After His work for the day was finished, He went forth, evening after evening, away from the confusion of the city, and bowed in prayer to His Father, frequently He continued His petitions through the entire night; but He came from these seasons of communion invigorated and refreshed, braced for duty and for trial. - Gospel Workers, pp. 255, 256.

Feeble, sinful man has the privilege of speaking to his Maker. We may utter words that reach the throne of the Monarch of the universe. We may speak with Jesus as we walk by the way, and he says, I am at thy right hand. - Ibid., p. 258.

I WILL MEDITATE IN THY PRECEPTS

"I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word." Ps. 119: 15, 16.

Thoughts and meditations upon the goodness of God to us would close the avenues of the soul to Satan's suggestions. god's love for us is proved daily; yet we are thoughtless of His favors and indifferent to his entreaties. He seeks to impress us with His Spirit of tenderness, His love and forbearance; but we scarcely recognize the marks of His kindness, and have little sense of the lesson of love He desires us to learn. Some, like Haman, forget all God's favors, because Mordecai is before them and is not disgraced; because their hearts are filled with enmity and hatred, rather than love, the spirit of our dear Redeemer, who gave His precious life for His enemies.

We profess to have the same Father, to be bound to the same immortal home, to enjoy the same solemn faith, and to believe the same testing message; and yet  many are at strife with one another like quarrelsome children. Some who are engaged in the same branch of the work are at variance with one another and therefore at variance with the spirit of Christ. - Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 222, 223.

Let the student take the Bible as his guide, and stand like a rock for principle, and he may aspire to any height of attainment. All the philosophies of human nature have led to confusion and shame when god has  not been recognized as all in all. But the precious faith inspired of God imparts strength and nobility of character. As His goodness, His mercy, and his love are dwelt upon, clearer and still clearer will be the perception of truth; higher, holier, the desire for purity of heart and clearness of thought. - Ibid., vol. 8, p. 322.

COMMUNE WITH THINE OWN HEART

"Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still." Ps. 4:4.

Closely examine your own heart, and the state of your affections toward God. Inquire, Have I devoted the precious moments of today in seeking to please myself, seeking for my own amusement? or have I made others happy? have I helped those connected with me to greater devotion to God and to appreciate eternal things? Have I brought my religion into my home, and there revealed the grace of Christ in my words and in my deportment? By my respectful obedience, have I honored my parents, and thus kept the fifth commandment? Have I cheerfully taken up my little, everyday duties, performing them with fidelity, doing what i could to lighten the burdens of thers? have I kept my lips from evil, and my tongue from speaking guile?  have I honored Christ my Redeemer, who gave His precious life that eternal life might be within my reach?.....

Be earnest; be resolute. Present the promise of God, and then believe without a doubt. Do not wait to feel special emotions before you think the Lord answers. Do not mark out some particular way that the Lord must work for you before you believe you receive the things you ask of Him; but trust His word, and leave the whole matter in the hands of the Lord, with full faith that your prayer will be honored, and the answer will come at the very time and in the very way your heavenly Father sees is for your good; and then live out your prayers. Walk humbly and keep moving forward. - Messages to Young People,pp. 122, 123.

IN THE NIGHT HIS SONG IS WITH ME

"Yet the Lord will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the might his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life." Ps. 42:8. 

If you have given yourself to God, to do His work, you have no need to be anxious for tomorrow. He whose servant you are, knows the end from the beginning. The events of tomorrow, which are hidden from your view, are open to the eyes of Him who is omnipotent. - Mount of Blessing, p. 149.

Worry is blind, and cannot discern the future; but Jesus sees the end from the beginning. In every difficulty He has His way prepared to bring relief. - The Desire of Ages, p. 330.

As Jesus rested by faith in the Father's care, so we are to rest in the care of our Saviour. If the disciples had trusted in Him, they would have been kept in peace....How often the disciples' experience is ours! When the tempests of temptation gather, and the fierce lightnings flash, and the waves sweep over us, we battle with the storm alone, forgetting that there is one who can help us. We trust to our own strength till our hope is lost, and we are ready to perish. Then we remember Jesus, and if we call upon Him to save us, we shall not cry in vain. - Ibid., p. 336.

We shall be tested and tried; we may be called to spend wakeful nights; but let such times be spent in earnest prayer to God, that he may give understanding, and quicken the mind to discern the privileges that are ours. - Messages to young People, p. 26.

The soul dwelling in the pure atmosphere of holy thought will be transformed by communion with God through the study of the Scriptures. - Christ's Object Lessons, p. 60.

BLESSED IS HE THAT READETH

"Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is it hand." Rev. 1:3.

When a real love for the Bible is awakened, and the student begins to realize how vast is the field and how precious its treasure, he will desire to seize upon every opportunity for acquainting himself with God's Word. Its study will be restricted to no special time or place. And this continuous study is one of the best means of cultivating a love for the Scriptures. Let the student keep his Bible always with him. As you have opportunity, read a text and meditate upon it. While walking the streets, waiting at a railway station, waiting to meet an engagement, improve the opportunity to gain some precious thought from the treasure-house of truth.

The great motive powers of the soul are faith, hope, and love; and it is to these that Bible study, rightly pursued, appeals. The outward beauty of the Bible, the beauty of imagery and expression, is but the setting as it were, for its real treasure, - the beauty of holiness. In its record of the men who walked with God, we may catch glimpses of his glory. in the One "altogether lovely" we behold Him, of whom all beauty of earth and heaven is but a dim reflection....As the student of the Bible beholds the Redeemer, there is awakened in the soul the mysterious power of faith, adoration, and love. Upon the vision of Christ the gaze is fixed, and the beholder grows into the likeness of that which he adores...

The springs of heavenly peace and joy unsealed in the soul by the words of Inspiration will become a mighty river of influence to bless all who come within its reach. - Education, pp. 191, 192.

FAITH AND BELIEF ARE NECESSARY

"But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him." Heb. 11:6.

In some instances of healing, Jesus did not at once grant the blessing sought. But in the case of leprosy no sooner was the appeal made than it was granted. When we pray for earthly blessings, the answer to our prayer may be delayed, or God may give us something other than we ask but not so when we ask for deliverance from sin.

It is His will to cleanse us form sin, to make us His children, and to enable us to live a holy life. Christ "gave himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father." - Ministry of Healing, p.70

It is faith that connects us with heaven, and brings us strength for coping with the powers of darkness. In Christ, God has provided means for subduing every evil trait, and resisting every temptation, however strong. But many feel that they lack faith, and therefore they remain away from Christ. Let these souls, in their helpless unworthiness, cast themselves upon the mercy of their compassionate Saviour. Look not to self, but to Christ. he who healed the sick and cast out demons when He walked among men, is still the same mighty reedemer. then grasp His promises as leaves from the tree of life:  "Him that cometh to Me I will in nowise cast out." As you come to Him, believe that He accepts you, because He has promised. You can never perish while you do this-never.-Ibid., pp. 65,66.

In the prayer of faith there is a divine science; it is a science that every one who would make his life-work a success must understand. - Education, p. 257

IF TWO SHALL AGREE, IT SHALL BE DONE

"Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven." Matt. 18:19.

The earnest prayers of this faithful few will not be in vain. When the lord comes forth as an  avenger, he will also come as a protector of all those who have preserved the faith in its purity, and kept themselves unspotted from the world. It is at this time that god has promised to avenge his won elect which cry day and night unto Him, though He bear long with them. - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 210.

Strive earnestly for unity. Pray for it, work for it, it will bring spiritual health, elevation of though, nobility of character, heavenly-mindedness, enabling you to overcome selfishness and evil-surmising, and to be more than conquerors through him that loved you, and gave Himself for you. Crucify self; esteem others better than yourselves. Thus you will be brought into oneness with Christ. Before the heavenly universe, and before the church and the world, you will bear unmistakable evidence that you are God's sons and daughters. God will be glorified in the example that you set. The world needs to see worked out before it the miracle that binds the hearts of God's people together in Christian love. IT needs to see the Lord's people sitting together in heavenly places in Christ. -Ibid., vol. 9, p. 188.

God calls upon His faithful ones, who believe in Him, to talk courage to those who are unbelieving and hopeless. May the Lord help us to help one another, and to prove Him by living faith. - Ibid., vol. 8, p.12

SECRET PRAYER WILL BE ANSWERED

"But thou, when thou prayest, enter into they closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." Matt. 6:6

Family prayer and public prayer have their place; but it is secret communion with God that sustains the soul-life. It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of what wonderful building which was to be the abiding -place of His glory. It is in the mount with God- the secret place of communion-that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be enabled so to fashion our character-building that to us may be fulfilled the promise, "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people."

While engaged in our daily work, we should lift the soul to heaven in prayer. These silent petitions rise like incense before the throne of grace; and the enemy is baffled. The Christian whose heart is thus stayed upon God cannot be overcome. No evil arts can destroy his peace. All the promises of God's Word, all the power of divine grace, all the resources of Jehovah, are pledged to secure his deliverance. - Gospel Workers, p.254.

God reads teh hidden thoughts. We may pray in secret, and he who sees in secret will hear, and will reward us openly. - Messages to young People, p. 247.

We should be much in secret prayer. Christ is the vine, we are the branches. And if we would grow and flourish, we must continually draw sap and nourishment from the living Vine; for separated from the Vine, we have no strength....Press your petitions to the throne, and hold on by strong faith. The promises are sure. - Early Writings, p. 73.

ASK, THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL

"Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:24.

It was represented to me like children asking a blessing of their earthly parents who love them. They ask something that the parent knows will hurt them; the parent gives them the things that will be good and healthful for them, in the place of that which they desired. i saw that every prayer which is sent up in fiath from an honest heart, will be heard of God and answered, and the one that sent up the petition will have the blessing when he needs it most, and it will often exceed his expectations. Not a prayer of a true saint is lost if sent up in faith, from an honest heart. - Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 121.

Watch, pray, work - this is the Christian's watchword. The life of a true Christian is a life of constant prayer. He knows that the light and strength of one day is not sufficient for the trials and conflicts of the next. Satan is continually changing his temptations. Every day we shall be placed in different circumstances; and in the untried scenes that await us we shall be surrounded by fresh dangers, and constantly assailed by new and unexpected temptations. It is only through the strength and grace gained from heaven that we can hope to meet the temptations and perform the duties before us....

Ask, then; ask, and ye shall receive. Ask for humility, wisdom, courage, increase of faith. To every sincere prayer an answer will come....The prayers you offer in loneliness, in weariness, in trial, God answers, not always according to your expectations, but always for your good. - Gospel Workers, pp. 257, 258.

WHATSOEVER WE ASK WE RECEIVE

“And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” 1 John 3:22.

It is possible even for a parent to turn away from his hungry child, but God can never reject the cry of the needy and longing heart. With what wonderful tenderness he has described His love! To those who in days of darkness fee that God is unmindful of them, this is the message from the Father's heart: “Zion said, The Lord hath forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands.

Every promise in the Word of God furnishes us with subject-matter for prayer, presenting the pledged word of Jehovah as our assurance. Whatever spiritual blessing we need, it is our privilege to claim through Jesus. We may tell the Lord, with the simplicity of a child, exactly what we need. We may state to Him our temporal matters, asking Him for bread and raiment as well as for the bread of life and the robe of Christ's righteousness. Your heavenly Father knows that you have need of all these things, and you are invited to ask him concerning them. It is through the name of Jesus that every favor is received. God will honor that name, and will supply your necessities from the riches of His liberality.

But do not forget that in coming to God as a father, you acknowledge your relation to him as a child. You not only trust His goodness, but in all things yield to His will, knowing that His love is changeless. - Mount of Blessing, pp. 190, 191.

IF I CALL, GOD WILL ANSWER

“He shall call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.”. Ps. 91:15.

We all desire immediate and direct answers to our prayers, and are tempted to become discouraged when the answer is delayed or comes in an unlooked-for form. But God is too wise and good to answer our prayers always at just the time and in just the manner we desire. He will do more and better for us than to accomplish all our wishes. And because we can trust His wisdom and love, we should not ask Him to concede to our will, but should seek to enter into and accomplish His purpose. Our desires and interests should be lost in His will. These experiences that test faith are for our benefit. By them it is made manifest whether our faith is true and sincere, resting on the word of God alone, or whether depending on circumstances, it is uncertain and changeable. Faith is strengthened by exercise. We must let patience have its perfect work, remembering that there are precious promises in the Scriptures for those who wait upon the Lord. - Ministry of Healing, pp. 230, 231.

God is too wise to err, and too good to withhold any good thing from His saints that walk uprightly. Man is erring, and although his petitions are sent up from an honest heart, he does not always ask for the things that are good for himself, or that will glorify God. When this is so, our wise and good Father hears our prayers, and will answer, sometimes immediately; but He gives us the things that are for our best good and His own glory. God gives us blessings; if we could look into His plan, we would clearly see that He knows what is best for us, and that our prayers are answered. - Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 120, 121.

GOD WILL AVENGE HIS OWN ELECT

"And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily." Luke 18:7.8

In all ages, God has wrought through holy angels for the succor and deliverance of his people. Celestial beings have taken an active part in the affairs of men. They have appeared clothed in garments that shone as the lightning; they have come as men, in the garb of wayfarers. Angels have appeared in human form to men of God. They have rested, as if weary, under the oaks at noon. They have accepted the hospitality of human homes. They have acted as guides to benighted travelers. They have, with their own hands, kindled the fires of the altar. They have opened prison doors, and set free the servants of the Lord. clothed with the panoply of heaven, they came to roll away the stone from the Saviour's tomb. - The Great Controversy, p. 631.

The precious Saviour will send help just when we need it. The way to heaven is consecrated by His footprints. Every thorn that wounds our feet has wounded his. Every cross that we are called to bear, He has borne before us.

The Lord permits conflicts, to prepare the soul for peace. The time of trouble is a fearful ordeal for God's people; but it is the time for every true believer to look up, and by faith he may see the bow of promise encircling him. - Ibid., p. 633.

It is at midnight that God manifests his power for the deliverance of His people....In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying, "It is done." - Ibid., p. 636.

GOD WILL PROTECT

"Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgement; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the lord's anger." Zeph. 2:3.

The tempest is coming, and we must get ready for its fury by having repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord will arise to shake terribly the earth. We shall see troubles on all sides. Thousands of ships will be hurled into the depths of the sea. Navies will go down and human lives will be sacrificed by millions. Fires will break out unexpectedly, and no human effort will be able to quench them. The palaces of earth will be swept away in the fury of the flames.

Disasters by rail will become more and more frequent; confusion, collision, and death without a moment's warning will occur on the great lines of travel. The end is near, probation is closing. Oh, let us seek God while He may be found, call upon him while he is near! - Messages to Young People, pp. 89,90.

God forbid, that I should cease to warn you. Young friends, seek the Lord with all your heart. Come with zeal, and when you sincerely feel that without the help of God you perish, when you pant after him as the hart panteth after the water-brooks, then will the Lord strengthen you speedily. Then will your peace pass all understanding. If you expect salvation, you must pray. Take time. Be not hurried and careless in your prayers. Beg of God to work in you a thorough reformation, that the fruits of Spirit may dwell in you, and you shine as lights in the world. Be not a hindrance or curse to the cause of God; you can be a help, a blessing. Does Satan tell you that you cannot enjoy salvation, full and free? Believe him not. - Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 159

GOD HEARS THE PRAYER OF THE DISCOURAGED ONE

"For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee." Ps. 31:22.

Be not discouraged because your heart seems hard. Every obstacle, every internal foe, only increases your need of Christ. He came to take away the heart of stone, and give you a heart of flesh. Look to Him for special grace to overcome your peculiar faults.....Cry to the dear Saviour for help to sacrifice every idol, and to put away every darling sin. Let the eye of faith see Jesus standing before the Father's throne, presenting His wounded hands as he pleads for you. Believe that strength comes to you through your precious Saviour. -Messages to Young People, p. 112.

The first resistance to the Spirit's pleading prepares the way for the second resistance. Thus the heart is hardened, and the conscience seared.

On the other hand, every resistance of temptation makes resistance more easy. Every denial of self makes self-denial easier. Every victory gained prapares the way for a fresh victory. Each resistance of temptation, each self-denial, each triumph over sin, is a seed sown unto eternal life. Every un-selfish action gives new strength to spirituality....With outstretched arms He waits to welcome the prodigal. Go to Him, and tell Him about your mistakes and failures. Ask Him to strengthen you for fresh endeavor. He will never disappoint you, never abuse your confidence. Trial will come to you. Thus the Lord polishes the roughness from your character. Do not murmur, you make the trial harder by repining. honor God by cheerful submission. Patiently endure the pressure. Ibid., pp. 96,97

HE KNOWS OUR NEEDS BEFORE WE ASK

"For your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." Matt. 6:8

Jesus Himself, while he dwelt among men, was often in prayer. Our Saviour identified Himself with our needs and weakness, in that He became a suppliant, a petitioner, seeking from his Father fresh supplies of strength, that He might come forth braced for duty and trial. He is our example in all things. He is a brother in our infirmities, "in all points tempted like as we are;" but as the sinless one, His nature recoiled from evil; he endured struggles and torture of soul in a world of sin. his humanity made prayer a necessity and a privilege. he found comfort and joy in communion with his Father. And if the Saviour of men, the Son of God, felt the need of prayer, how much more should feeble, sinful mortals feel the necessity of fervent, constant prayer.

Our heavenly Father waits to bestow upon us the fullness of his blessing. It is our privilege to drink largely at the fountain of boundless love. What a wonder it is that we pray so little" God is ready and willing to hear the sincere prayer of the humblest of his children, and yet there is much manifest reluctance on our part to make known our wants to God. What can the angels of heaven think of poor helpless human beings, who are subject to temptation, when God's heart of infinite love yearns toward them, ready to give them more than they can ask or think, and yet they pray so little, and have so little faith. - Steps to Christ, pp. 97, 98.

Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary, in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings us up to him. - Ibid., p. 97

IN THEE DO I HOPE, FOR THOU WILT HEAR

"For in thee, O Lord, do I hope: thou wilt hear, O Lord my God." Ps. 38:15.

We must be much in prayer, if we would make progress in the divine life. When the message of truth was first proclaimed, how much we prayed. how often was the voice of intercession heard in the chamber, in the barn, in the orchard, or the grove. Frequently we spent hours in earnest prayer, two or three together claiming the promise; often the sound of weeping was heard, and then the voice of thanksgiving and the song of praise. now the day of God is nearer than when we first believed, and we should be more earnest, more zealous, and fervent than in those early days. our perils are greater now than then. Souls are more hardened. We need now to be imbued with the spirit of Christ; and we should not rest until we receive it. - Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 161, 162.

Pray, yes, pray with unshaken fiath and trust. The Angel of the Covenant, even our Lord Jesus Christ, is the mediator who secures the acceptance of the prayers of his believing ones - Ibid., vol. 8, p. 179.

Through nature and revelation, through his providence, and by the influence of His Spirit, God speaks to us. but these are not enough; we need also to pour out our hearts to him. In order to have spiritual life and energy, we must have actual intercourse with our heavenly Father. our minds may be drawn out toward Him; we may meditate upon his works, his mercies, His blessings; but this not, in the fullest sense, communing with Him. In order to commune with God, we must have something to say tho Him concerning our actual life. - Steps to Christ, p. 97.

GOD WILL BE FAVORABLE

"He shall pray unto God, and he will be favourable unto him: and he shall see his face with joy: for he will render unto man his righteousness." Job 33:26.

No cry from a soul in need, though it fail of utterance in words, will be unheeded. Those who will consent to enter into covenant relation with the God of heaven are not left to the power of Satan or to the infirmity of their own nature. - The Desire of Ages, pp. 258, 259.

There are few who rightly appreciate or improve the precious privilege of prayer. We should go to Jesus and tell Him all our needs. We may bring Him our little cares and perplexities as well as our greater troubles. Whatever arises to disturb or distress us, we should take it to the Lord in prayer. When we feel that we need the presence of Christ at every step, Satan will have little opportunity to intrude his temptations. It is his studied effort to keep us away from our best and most sympathizing friend. We should make no one our confidant but Jesus. We can safely commune with him of all that is in our hearts. - Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 200,201.

Every sincere prayer is heard in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed; but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the sanctuary where Jesus ministers, and He will present it to the Father without one awkward, stammering word, beautiful and fragrant with the incense of His own perfection. - The Desire of Ages, p. 667.

If we would only take the Lord at His word, what blessings might be ours! Would that there were more fervent, effectual prayer. Christ will be the helper of all who seek Him in faith. - Testimonies, vol. 5, p.202.

TAKE HOLD OF GOD'S STRENGTH

"Or let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me." Isa. 27:5.

Enoch was a man of strong and highly cultivated mind, and extensive knowledge; he was honored with special revelations from God; yet being in constant communion with heaven, with a sense of the divine greatness and perfection ever before him, he was one of the humblest of men. The closer the connection with God, the deeper was the sense of his own weakness and imperfection.

Distressed by the increasing wickedness of the ungodly, and fearing that their infidelity might lessen his reverence for God, Enoch avoided constant association with them, and spent much time in solitude, giving himself to meditation and prayer. Thus he waited before the Lord, seeking a clearer knowledge of His will, that he might perform it. To him prayer was as the breath of the soul; he lived in the very atmosphere of heaven. - Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 85

Communing thus with God, Enoch came more and more to reflect the divine image. his face was radiant with a holy light, even the light that shineth from the face of Jesus. As he came forth from these divine communings, even the ungodly beheld with awe the impress of heaven upon his countenance. -Ibid., p.87.

Whoever under the reproof of God will humble the soul with confession and repentance, as did David, may be sure that there is hope for him. Whoever will in faith accept God's promises, will find pardon. The Lord will never cast away one truly repentant soul. He has given this promise: "Let him take hold of my strength,....and he shall make peace with me." - Ibid. p. 726.