[Ps. 19:14+]
It is as necessary for the life of the soul, as breathing is for that of
the body. As children of God we must live in communion with Him; and we
cannot be Christians without prayer. For this reason God has given us
His name to use in prayer, and the Saviour has taught us how to pray in
the Lord's Prayer.
To WHOM WE SHOULD PRAY. Our prayers should be addressed to God alone,
[Matt. 4:10.] and not to the Virgin Mary, the saints, the angels, or any
other creatures.
WHY WE SHOULD PRAY. We should pray, 1. Because we constantly need God's
mercy in temporal and spiritual things. 2. Because we owe God our thanks
for his many benefits. [Ps. 103, Jas. 1:17] 3. Because God has commanded
us to pray. [Matt. 6:9, Matt. 26:41] 4. Because God has promised to hear
us. [Matt. 7:7, 8+, Ps. 50:15]
WHEN WE SHOULD PRAY. 1. Always; [Luke 21:36+] that is, our soul should
live in constant communion with God, and always be open toward Him. 2.
Whenever we feel special need of prayer: in danger, [Matt. 8:25]
distress, anxiety, [Matt.
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