The Jews at this day write upon the walls of their synagogues these words, Tophillah belo cavannah ceguph belo neshamah; that is, a prayer without the heart, or without the intention of the affection, is like a body without a soul.
– Thomas Brooks –
from The Secret Key To Heaven, 1665
One way to recollect the mind easily in the time of prayer, and preserve it more in tranquility, is not to let it wander too far at other times. You should keep it strictly in the presence of God; and being accustomed to think of Him often, you will find it easy to keep your mind calm in the time of prayer, or at least to recall it from its wanderings.
– Brother Lawrence –
from The Practice of the Presence of God
Men pray as they live, because it is the life that prays. The life that, with wholehearted devotion gives up everything for God and to God can claim everything from God.
– Andrew Murray –
from The Ministry of Intercession
Remember that secret prayer, reading the word of God, watchfulness, and self-examination are the great means of preserving comfort in religion, and of growing in grace. In proportion as you are exact and faithful in these, such usually will be your inward peace, and the safety of your state. Unite them all together, and never cease to practice them while you live.
– Ashbel Green –
1762 –1848
Be earnest, be prayerful, be united. Study the Word, and practice it. Live on Christ, and live for Him.
– Charles Spurgeon –
from Letters of Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Though in its beginnings prayer is so simple that even a small child can pray, it is at the same time the highest and holiest work to which anyone can rise. It is fellowship with the unseen and most holy One. The powers of the eternal world have been placed at its disposal. It is the very essence of true religion. It is the channel of all blessings and the secret of power and life. Through prayer, God has given to everyone the right to take hold of Him and His strength. It is on prayer that promises wait for their fulfillment, the kingdom for its coming, and glory of God for its full revelation.
– Andrew Murray –
from Teach Me to Pray
And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, Acts 9:11 ESV
The Holy Ghost’s evidence by which he convinced Ananias of Paul’s conversion was not, “Behold, he talks loudly of his joys and feelings,” but, “Behold, he prayeth,” and that prayer was earnest, heart-broken confession and supplication. Oh to see this sure evidence in all who profess to be our converts!
– Charles Spurgeon –
from The Soul Winner
If I can hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet the distance makes no difference; He is praying for me.
– Robert Murray M’Cheyne –
Ignorant and feeble as we are, Lord, teach us to pray.
– Andrew Murray –
from Teach Me to Pray