Weekend Words

From Be Still and Know - Millie Stamm...

"And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed." - Mark 1:35

Ir has been said, "Life is so fragile we must handle it with prayer."  What do the early morning hours find us doing?  As we awaken, do our thoughts turn to our heavenly Father?  Do we thank Him for a new day, committing it and ourselves to Him?  Do we spend time reading His Word and praying before we face the day with others?  Or are we so weary from the strenuous day before, we feel we deserve extra rest?

Jesus lived a busy life.  His daily schedule was full.  Yet as we follow His ministry, we discover He never seemed hurried or tense.  Everywhere He went multitudes followed Him.  People pressed upon Him constantly, seeking His help.  He always had time for each individual.  With the pressures of such busy days it must have been difficult for Him to find time for communion with His Heavenly Father.  But he had learned the importance of "The Solitude of Prayer."  Prayer to Him was not "incidental" but "fundamental."  He rose early in the morning for time alone with His Heavenly Father in prayer.

In today's complex way of life it may not be possible to "rise up a great while before day."  Dr Edman gave a helpful comment on this.  He said, "There should be the 'sunrise' of the soul each day, no matter what the hour of the day may be for the believer."

It was said of John Wesley, "He thought prayer to be more his business than anything else.  I have seen him come out of his prayer closet with a serenity of face next to shining."

Regardless of what time of day is best for us, it is vital to our spiritual life to go "into the solitary place" with God.  Our needs may be many, problems may seem insurmountable, strength may be limited.  In the solitary place of prayer, help comes form God.  In His presence, tensions are relieved, courage is renewed.  Calmness of spirit comes as we rest in the Lord.

From Faith's Checkbook - Charles H Spurgeon...

Prayer, Thanksgiving, Praise

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7

No care, but all prayer.  No anxiety, but joyful communion with God.  Carry your desires to the Lord of your life, the guardian of your soul.  Go to Him with two portions of prayer and one of fragrant praise.  Do not pray doubtfully, but thankfully.  Hide nothing.  Allow no want to lie rankling in your bosom; make known your requests.  Run not to man. Go only to your God, who loves you.

This shall bring you God's own peace.  It will enfold you in its infinite embrace.  Heart and mind through Christ Jesus shall be steeped in a sea of rest.  Come life or death, poverty, pain, slander, you shall dwell in Jesus above every ruffling wind or darkening cloud.  Will you not obey this dear command?