“You Do Not Have Because You Do Not Ask.”

We must pray more than we have done up till now. In Horten we have been having prayer meetings since the beginning of the year, and God has blessed us in an amazing way. Many difficulties arise when people meet together, but all evil is resolved and dissolved through prayer. Hearts become soft, and the Spirit of grace and prayer grips everyone. We have seen and experienced God’s answer to prayer in many ways. He has opened a way where previously there was none. Humble souls have been filled with the power of God’s Spirit. God is not persuaded to act just because of ceremonial prayers at the beginning and at the end of a meeting. We have to press in to God with one accord. Then when life has come into our midst, this life-giving stream can flow out to others.

I think it would be of benefit for the friends everywhere to begin having prayer meetings. We have had Bible studies for a number of years now, so most people have ample knowledge of God. They know more than most believers. But now prayer is needed. Press in to God so that life may come into the assembly and there can be revival among sinners. “The end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.” 1 Pet. 4:7. Pray about specific things, the things that are close at hand. Don’t allow people to be carried away by their emotions and disrupt the meeting. If a new convert does that, we should bear him; but those who are older should be sober and of a sound mind. Let us ask ourselves whether we have received what we have asked for. Don’t repeat yourself in your prayers. Keep it short. Instead, pray several times. There are all sorts of obstacles among God’s people. Sin has wreaked havoc. It has established deep roots and strong habits. An ungodly person who gets converted and comes to the light can tell stories about the most incredible sins that bound him. All these lusts in the flesh pull and tug, trying to assert themselves anew. The best defense against all this wickedness is prayer coupled with a sound understanding. Sin lies at the door and its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.