Magnificent Prayer #276
Magnificent Prayer #276
He rained down manna for the people to eat, he gave them the grain of heaven.
Psalm 78:24
I am persuaded that I ought never to do anything without prayer, and, if possible, special secret prayer…I ought to pray far more for our church, for our ministers by name, and for my own clear guidance in the right way, that I may not be led aside, or driven aside from following Christ…I should pray much more in peaceful days, that I may be guided rightly when days of trial come. I ought to spend the best hours of the day in communion with God. It is my noblest and most fruitful employment, and is not to be thrust into any corner. For me, the morning hours from six to eight are the most uninterrupted, and should be thus employed, if I can prevent drowsiness. A little time after breakfast might be given to intercession. After tea is my best hour, and that should be solemnly dedicated to God, if possible.
ROBERT MURRAY MCCHEYNE
Pray About It: It’s nice to read that great pray-ers of the past had to fight drowsiness, even those who counted prayer as the most important activity of their day. It’s also nice to hear that “after tea” was a good hour for this eighteenth-century Christian. What is your equivalent of “after tea”?
Remember that your hour of prayer may not be the same as another Christian’s. Do try to get with Him in the morning, however, as it sets the tone for the day. The manna must be gathered early or it is spoiled. But prayer in the evening is also suitable, as we think back on the goodness of God during the day, and we look ahead to tomorrow.
Wake up, man, wake up when you pray, for it is insulting to God to give him sleepy worship.
CHARLES HADDON SPURGEON
From the book
