January 7, 2005

Teach Me To Pray

Words and Music by Albert S. Reitz, 1879-1966

      Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.

    What is prayer? To many, prayer is regarded as a foolish repetition of words, a refuge for weaklings, or a childish petition for material needs. How sadly this reservoir of spiritual power is undervalued when perceived in these terms, just as we would underestimate electricity if we talked of it only in terms of a 40-watt bulb.
    For the child of God, prayer is far more than the mere gratification of our human whims. It is the practice of the presence of Almighty God in every activity of our daily lives.

Prayer is so simple. It is like quietly opening a door and slipping into the very presence of God. ~ Unknown.

    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.
    When Jesus was upon the earth, He taught His disciples how to pray. He directed them to present their daily needs before God, and to cast all their care upon Him. And the assurance He gave them that their petitions should be heard, is assurance also to us.
    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? The angels love to bow before God; they love to be near Him. They regard communion with God as their highest joy; and yet the children of earth, who need so much the help that God only can give, seem satisfied to walk without the light of His Spirit, the companionship of His presence. ~ Ellen G. White (Steps to Christ)

    Pastor Albert S. Reitz left this account: When I was pastor of the Rosehill Baptist Church, we had a heart-warming Day of Prayer under the leadership of the Evangelical Prayer Union of Los Angeles. The next morning in my study the Lord gave the words and the music then followed.

    As you read these words, may they challenge you to recognize the importance of an earnest prayer life.

    Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray; this is my heart cry day unto day; I long to know Thy will and Thy way; teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray.
    Power in prayer, Lord, power in prayer, here 'mid earth's sin and sorrow and care; men lost and dying, souls in despair -- O give me power, power in prayer!
    My weakened will, Lord, Thou canst renew; my sinful nature Thou canst subdue; fill me just now with power anew, power to pray and power to do!
    Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray; Thou art my Pattern day unto day; Thou are my surety now and for aye; teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray.
    Chorus:  Living in Thee, Lord, and Thou in me; constant abiding, this is my plea; grant me Thy power boundless and free:  Power with men and power with Thee.