God answers sharp and sudden on some prayers, And thrusts the thing we have prayed for in our face. A gauntlet with a gift in’t.
—Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806–61) English Poet
Helplessness becomes prayer the moment that you go to Jesus and speak candidly and confidently with him about your needs. This is to believe.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Our prayers must mean something to us if they are to mean anything to God.
—Maltbie Davenport Babcock (1858–1901) American Presbyterian Clergyman, Writer
A sensible thanksgiving for mercies received is a mighty prayer in the Spirit of God. It prevails with Him unspeakably.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
You need not cry veiy loud; he is nearer to us than we think.
—Brother Lawrence (1614–91) French Carmelite Monk, Writer
When we in prayer seek only the glorification of the name of God, then we are in complete harmony with the spirit of prayer. Then our hearts are at rest both while we pray and after we have prayed. Then we can wait for the Lord.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
The wise man in the storm prays God, not for safety from danger, but for deliverance from fear.
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–82) American Philosopher
It is in vain to expect our prayers to be heard, if we do not strive as well as pray.
—Aesop (620–564 BCE) Greek Fabulist
Prayer is the little implement through which men reach; where presence is denied them.
—Emily Dickinson (1830–86) American Poet
The goal of prayer is the ear of God, a goal that can only be reached by patient and continued and continuous waiting upon Him, pouring out our heart to Him and permitting Him to speak to us. Only by so doing can we expect to know Him, and as we come to know Him better we shall spend more time in His presence and find that presence a constant and ever-increasing delight.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
A generous prayer is never presented in vain; the petition may be refused, but the petitioner is always, I believe, rewarded by some gracious visitation.
—Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–94) Scottish Novelist
Our prayer life will become restful when it really dawns upon us that we have done all we are supposed to do when we have spoken to Him about it. From the moment we have left it with Him, it is His responsibility.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer is the incense of a holy heart Rising to God from bruised and broken things, When kindled by the Spirit’s burning breath And upward borne by faith’s ascending wings.
—Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843–1919) Canadian Protestant Preacher, Theologian, Author
God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
—The Holy Bible Scripture in the Christian Faith
They never sought in vain, that sought the Lord aright.
—Robert Burns (1759–96) Scottish Poet, Songwriter
Natural ability and educational advantages do ot figure as factors in this matter of prayer, but a capacity for faith, the power of a orough consecration, the ability of lfliUleness, an absolute losing of one’s self in God’s glory and an ever present and insatiable yearning and seeking after all the fullness of God.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Don’t pray when it rains if you don’t pray when the sun shines.
—Satchel Paige (1906–82) American Baseball Player
Pray always for all the learned, the oblique, the delicate. Let them not be quite forgotten at the throne of God when the simple come into their kingdom.
—Evelyn Waugh (1903–66) British Novelist, Essayist, Biographer
Prayer is a serious thing. We may be taken at our words.
—Dwight L. Moody (1837–99) Christian Religious Leader, Publisher
Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
Prayer honors God, acknowledges His being, exalts His power, adores His providence, secures His aid.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
I think Christians fail so often to get answers to their prayers because they do not wait long enough on God. They just drop down and say a few words, and then jump up and forget it and expect God to answer them. Such praying always reminds me of the small boy ringing his neighbor’s door-bell, and then running away as fast as he can go.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Trust in God – but tie your camel tight.
—Persian Proverb
Prayer is our most formidable weapon; the thing which makes all else we do efficient.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Praying which does not result in pure conduct is a delusion. We have missed the whole office and virtue of praying if it does not rectify conduct. it is in the very nature of things that we must quit praying or quit bad conduct.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer has comforted us in sorrow and will help strengthen us for the journey ahead.
—George W. Bush (b.1946) American Head of State, Businessperson
The possibilities of prayer are found in its allying itself with the purposes of God, for God’s purposes and man’s praying are the combination of all potent and omnipotent forces.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
I have been benefited by praying for others; for by making an errand to God for them I have gotten something for myself.
—Samuel Rutherford (1600–61) Scottish Presbyterian Theologian, Author
Pray to God, at the beginning of all thy works, that so thou mayest bring them all to a good ending.
—Xenophon (c.430–c.354 BCE) Ancient Greek Philosopher
Praying is no easy matter. It demands a relationship in which you allow someone other than yourself to enter into the very center of your person, to see there what you would rather leave in darkness, and to touch there what you would rather leave untouched.
—Henri Nouwen (1932–96) Dutch Catholic Theologian, Writer
Prayer is the language of a man burdened with a sense of need.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one’s weakness. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart.
—Mohandas K. Gandhi (1869–1948) Indian Hindu Political leader
I firmly believe a great many prayers are not answered because we are not willing to forgive someone.
—Dwight L. Moody (1837–99) Christian Religious Leader, Publisher
Prayer is the ascending vapor which supplies the showers of blessing, and the stream that flows through earth’s dry places, till on every side “The wilderness shall blossom as the rose”.
—Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843–1919) Canadian Protestant Preacher, Theologian, Author
When we go to our meeting with God, we should go like a patient to his doctor, first to be thoroughly examined and afterwards to be treated for our ailment. Then something will happen when you pray.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer is first of all listening to God. It’s openness. God is always speaking; he’s always doing something. Prayer is to enter into that activity. … Convert your thoughts into prayer. As we are involved in unceasing thinking, so we are called to unceasing prayer. The difference is not that prayer is thinking about other things, but that prayer is thinking in dialogue, … a conversation with God.
—Henri Nouwen (1932–96) Dutch Catholic Theologian, Writer
Prayer is something deeper than words. It is present in the soul before it has been formulated in words. And it abides in the soul after the last words of prayer have passed over our lips.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Bear up the hands that hang down, by faith and prayer, support the tottering knees. Storm the throne of grace and persevere therein, and mercy will come down.
—John Wesley (1703–91) British Methodist Religious Leader, Preacher, Theologian
When a man has done all he can do, still there is a mighty, mysterious agency over which he needs influence to secure success. The only way he can reach it is by prayer.
—Russell Conwell (1843–1925) American Baptist Minister, Orator, Philanthropist, Lawyer, Academic
If we could all hear one another’s prayers, God might be relieved of some of his burdens.
—Ashleigh Brilliant (b.1933) British Cartoonist, Author
Prayer is not an old woman’s idle amusement. Properly understood and applied, it is the most potent instrument of action.
—Mohandas K. Gandhi (1869–1948) Indian Hindu Political leader
God’s chief gift to those who seek him is Himself.
—Edward Bouverie Pusey (1800–82) British Anglican Theologian, Scholar
We ought to act with God in the greatest simplicity, speaking to Him frankly and plainly, and imploring His assistance in our affairs.
—Brother Lawrence (1614–91) French Carmelite Monk, Writer
Better little prayer with devotion than much without devotion.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
We know little of the things for which we pray.
—Geoffrey Chaucer (1343–1400) English Poet, Philosopher, Diplomat, Bureaucrat
Our groanings, which cannot be uttered, rise to Him and tell Him better than words how dependent we are upon Him.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Do not forget that prayer is ordained for the purpose of glorifying the name of God. Therefore, whether you pray for big things or for little things, say to God, “If it will glorify Thy name, then grant my prayer and help me”.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of containing God’s gift to himself.
—Mother Teresa (1910–97) Roman Catholic Missionary, Nun
Importunity is a condition of prayer. We are to press the matter, not with vain repetitions, but with urgent repetitions. We repeat, not to count the times, but to gain the prayer. We cannot quit praying because heart and soul are in it. We pray “with all perseverance”. We hang to our prayers because by them we live. We press our pleas because we must have them or die.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
At church, with meek and unaffected grace,
His looks adorn’d the venerable place;
Truth from his lips prevail’d with double sway,
And fools who came to scoff, remain’d to pray.
—Oliver Goldsmith (1730–74) Irish Novelist, Playwright, Poet
Prayer is translation. A man translates himself into a child asking for all there is in a language he has barely mastered.
—Leonard Cohen (1934–2016) Canadian Singer, Songwriter, Poet, Novelist
We can never know God as it is our privilege to know Him, by brief repetitions that are requests for personal favors and nothing more.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Confess your trespasses to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
—The Holy Bible Scripture in the Christian Faith
God shapes the world by prayer. Prayers are deathless. They outlive the lives of those who uttered them.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer is the golden key that opens heaven.
—Thomas J. Watson, Sr. (1874–1956) American Business Executive
The shower of answers to your prayers will continue to your dying hour. Nor will it cease then. When you pass out from beneath the shower, your dear ones will step into it. Every prayer and every sigh which you have uttered for them and their future welfare will, in God’s time, descend upon them as a gentle rain of answers to prayer.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
When a man has done all he can do, still there is a mighty, mysterious agency over which he needs influence to secure success. The only way he can reach it is by prayer.
—Russell Conwell (1843–1925) American Baptist Minister, Orator, Philanthropist, Lawyer, Academic
Prayer changes things?. No! Prayer changes people, and people change things.
—Burton Hillis (William E. Vaughan) (1915–77) American Columnist, Author
Prayer is the easiest and hardest of all things; the simplest and the sublimest; the weakest and the most powerful; its results lie outside the range of human possibilities — they are limited only by the omnipotence of God.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer is Israel’s only weapon, a weapon inherited from its fathers, a weapon tried in a thousand battles.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
The quiet hour of prayer is one of the most favorable opportunities He has in which to speak to us seriously. In quietude and solitude before the face of God our souls can hear better than at any other time.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
I prayed for riches and achieved success,
All that I touched turned into gold. Alas!
My cares were greater, and my peace was less
When that wish came to pass.
I prayed for glory; and heard my name
Sung by sweet children and by hoary men.
But ah! the hurts, the hurts that came with fame!
I was not happy then.
I prayed for love, and had my soul’s desire,
Through quivering heart and body and through brain
There swept the flame of its devouring fire;
And there the scars remain.
I prayed for a contented mind. At length
Great light upon my darkened spirit burst,
Great peace fell on me, also, and great strength.
Oh! had that prayer been first!
—Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1850–1919) American Poet, Journalist
When it becomes clear to us that prayer is a part of our daily program of work, it will also become clear to us that we must arrange our daily program in such a way that there is time also for this work, just as we set aside time for other necessary things, such as eating and dressing.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
In prayer it is better to have a heart without words, than words without a heart.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
Prayer is the key of the morning and the bolt of the evening.
—Mohandas K. Gandhi (1869–1948) Indian Hindu Political leader
Prayer can assume very different forms, from quiet, blessed contemplation of God, in which eye meets eye in restful meditation, to deep sighs or sudden exclamations of wonder, joy, gratitude or adoration.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the soul to God, through Christ, in the strength and assistance of the Spirit, for such things as God has promised.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
He who runs from God in the morning will scarcely find Him the rest of the day.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
Certain thoughts are prayers. There are moments when, whatever be the attitude of the body, the soul is on its knees.
—Victor Hugo (1802–85) French Novelist
Prayer is the heavenly telephone that brings the distant near, till heaven to earth comes down.
—Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843–1919) Canadian Protestant Preacher, Theologian, Author
Prayer is a wine which makes glad the heart of man.
—Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153) French Catholic Religious Leader
A little lifting of the heart suffices; a little remembrance of God, one act of inward worship are prayers which, however short, are nevertheless acceptable to God.
—Brother Lawrence (1614–91) French Carmelite Monk, Writer
God gives every bird its food, but He does not throw it into the nest.
—Josiah Gilbert Holland (1819–81) American Editor, Novelist
There come times when I have nothing more to tell God. If I were to continue to pray in words, I would have to repeat what I have already said. At such times it is wonderful to say to God, “May I be in Thy presence, Lord? I have nothing more to say to Thee, but I do love to be in Thy presence”.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Cleanse your heart before praying.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
Many of our prayers were not answered, and for this we are now grateful.
—William Feather (1889–1981) American Publisher, Author
My helpless friend, your helplessness is the most powerful plea which rises up to the tender father-heart of God. You think that everything is closed to you because you cannot pray. My friend, your helplessness is the very essence of prayer.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
The best prayers have often more groans than words.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
When you enter your secret chamber, take plenty of time before you begin to speak. Let quietude wield its influence upon you. Let the fact that you are alone assert itself. Give your soul time to get released from the many outward things. Give God time to play the prelude to prayer for the benefit of your distracted soul.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer gives a man the opportunity of getting to know a gentleman he hardly ever meets. I do not mean his maker, but himself.
—William Motter Inge (1913–73) American Playwright, Novelist
The correct prayer is never one of supplication but one of gratitude.
—Neale Donald Walsch (b.1943) American Spiritual Writer
Selfishness is never so exquisitely selfish as when it is on its knees … Self turns what would otherwise be a pure and powerful prayer into a weak and ineffective one.
—A. W. Tozer (1897–1963) American Christian Pastor, Preacher, Author, Editor
By prayer, the ability is secured to feel the law of love, to speak according to the law of love, and to do everything in harmony with the law of love.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
It is the will of our heavenly Father that we should come to Him freely and confidently and make known our desires to Him, just as we would have our children come freely and of their own accord and speak to us about the things they would like to have.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer draws us near to our own souls.
—Herman Melville (1819–91) American Novelist, Short Story Writer, Essayist, Poet
Even when the gates of heaven are shut to prayer, they are open to those of tears.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
If we pray for anything according to the will of God, we already have what we pray for the moment we ask it. We do not know exactly when it will arrive; but we have learned to know God through the Spirit of God, and have learned to leave this in His hands, and to live just as happily whether the answer arrives immediately or later.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Heaven ne’er helps the man who will not act.
—Sophocles (495–405 BCE) Ancient Greek Dramatist
The entire day receives order and discipline when it acquires unity. This unity must be sought and found in morning prayer. The morning prayer determines the day.
—Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–45) German Lutheran Pastor, Theologian
O Lord, you know what is best for me. Let this or that be done, as you please. Give what you will, how much you will, and when you will.
—Thomas a Kempis (1379–1471) German Religious Priest, Writer
Audible prayer can never do the works of spiritual understanding, which regenerates; but silent prayer, watchfulness, and devout obedience enable us to follow Jesus example. Long prayers, superstition, and creeds clip the strong pinions of love, and clothe religion in human forms. Whatever materializes worship hinders man’s spiritual growth and keeps him from demonstrating his power over error.
—Mary Baker Eddy (1821–1910) American Christian Science Religious Leader, Humanitarian, Writer
To the man who himself strives earnestly, God also lends a helping hand.
—Aeschylus (525–456 BCE) Greek Poet
Always pray with humility and with a clear conscience.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
More tears are shed over answered prayers than unanswered ones.
—Truman Capote (1924–84) American Novelist
Non-praying is lawlessness, discord, anarchy.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayers are heard in heaven very much in proportion to your faith. Little faith will get very great mercies, but great faith still greater.
—Charles Spurgeon (1834–92) English Baptist Preacher
Men would pray better if they lived better. They would get more from God if they lived more obedient and well pleasing to God.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Whether we like it or not, asking is the rule of the Kingdom.
—Charles Spurgeon (1834–92) English Baptist Preacher
My praying friend, continue to make known your desires to God in all things .. . Let Him decide whether you are to receive what you ask for or not.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer, says St. Jerome, “is a groan.” Ah! our groans are prayers as well. The very cry of distress is an involuntary appeal to that invisible Power whose aid the soul invokes.
—Sophie Swetchine (1782–1857) Russian Mystic, Writer
I used to pray that God would do this or that; now I pray that God will make His will known to me.
—Soong Mei-ling (1898–2003) First Lady of the Republic of China
It is only when the whole heart is gripped with the passion of prayer that the life-giving fire descends, for none but the earnest man gets access to the ear of God.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer may not change things for you, but it for sure changes you for things.
—Sam Shoemaker (1893–1963) American Episcopal Priest
By prayer we couple the powers of heaven to our helplessness, the powers which can capture strongholds and make the impossible possible.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance; it is laying hold of His highest willingness.
—Richard Chenevix Trench (1807–86) Irish Anglican Clergyman, Religious Leader, Poet
If one draw near to God with praise and prayer even half a cubit foot, God will go twenty leagues to meet him.
—Edwin Arnold (1832–1904) English Poet, Journalist, Editor
Prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.
—Teresa of Avila (1515–82) Spanish Carmelite Nun, Mystic
Prayer begins where human capacity ends.
—Marian Anderson (1897–1993) American Singer
My prayers, my God, flow from what I am not; I think Thy answers make me what I am.
—George MacDonald (1824–1905) Scottish Novelist, Lecturer, Poet
Prayer should be the means by which I, at all times, receive all that I need, and, for this reason, be my daily refuge, my daily consolation, my daily joy, my source of rich and inexhaustible joy in life.
—John Chrysostom (c.347–407 CE) Archbishop of Constantinople
Blessed are the women who send their children to the house of prayer.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
Look not on thy prayers as on a task; let the supplication be sincere.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
Every time you pray, if your prayer is sincere, there will be new feeling and new meaning in it which will give you fresh courage and you will understand that prayer is an education.
—Fyodor Dostoyevsky (1821–81) Russian Novelist, Essayist, Writer
To pray, I think, does not mean to think about God in contrast to thinking about other things, or to spend time with God instead of spending time with other people. Rather, it means to think and live in the presence of God. As soon as we begin to divide our thoughts about God and thoughts about people and events, we remove God from our daily life and put him into a pious little niche where we can think pious thoughts and experience pious feelings. … Although it is important and even indispensable for the spiritual life to set apart time for God and God alone, prayer can only become unceasing prayer when all our thoughts — beautiful or ugly, high or low, proud or shameful, sorrowful or joyful — can be thought in the presence of God. … Thus, converting our unceasing thinking into unceasing prayer moves us from a self-centred monologue to a God-centred dialogue.
—Henri Nouwen (1932–96) Dutch Catholic Theologian, Writer
Spread out your petition before God, and then say, “Thy will, not mine, be done”. The sweetest lesson I have learned in God’s school is to let the Lord choose for me.
—Dwight L. Moody (1837–99) Christian Religious Leader, Publisher
Prayer crowns God with the honor and glory due to His name, and God crowns prayer with assurance and comfort. The most praying souls are the most assured souls.
—Thomas Brooks (1608–80) English Puritan Preacher, Author
Faith, and hope, and patience and all the strong, beautiful, vital forces of piety are withered and dead in a prayerless life. The life of the individual believer, his personal salvation, and personal Christian graces have their being, bloom, and fruitage in prayer.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
To say prayers in a decent, delicate way is not heavy work. But to pray really, to pray till hell feels the ponderous stroke, to pray till the iron gates of difficulty are opened, till the mountains of obstacles are removed, till the mists are exhaled and the clouds are lifted, and the sunshine of a cloudless day brightens — this is hard work, but it is God’s work and man’s best labor.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Restraining prayer, we cease to fight; Prayer keeps the Christian’s armor bright; And Satan trembles when he sees The weakest saint upon his knees.
—William Cowper (1731–1800) English Anglican Poet, Hymn writer
Be sure to remember that nothing in your daily life is so insignificant and so inconsequential that the Lord will not help you by answering your prayer.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
God alone fully understands what each one of us needs; we make mistakes continually and pray for things which would be harmful to us if we received them. Afterwards we see our mistakes and realize that God is good and wise in not giving us these things, even though we plead ever so earnestly for them.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Helplessness is unquestionably the first and the surest indication of a praying heart. .. Prayer and helplessness are inseparable. Only he who is helpless can truly pray.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Trouble and prayer are closely related … Trouble often drives men to God in prayer, while prayer is but the voice of men in trouble.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
The more praying there is in the world, the better the world will be; the mightier the forces against evil everywhere.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Answered prayers cover the field of providential history as flowers cover western prairies.
—Theodore L. Cuyler (1822–1909) American Presbyterian Clergyman, Writer
Begin to realize more and more that prayer is the most important thing you do. You can use your time to no better advantage than to pray whenever you have an opportunity to do so, either alone or with others; while at work, while at rest, or while walking down the street. Anywhere.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer, like faith, obtains promises, enlarges their operation, and adds to the measure of their results.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
You can do more than pray after you have prayed but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed.
—Samuel Dickey Gordon (1859–1936) American Evangelical Author, Minister
I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for the day.
—Abraham Lincoln (1809–65) American Head of State
I feel it is far better to begin with God, to see His face first, to get my soul near Him before it is near another. In general it is best to have at least one hour alone with God before engaging in anything else.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
There is neither encouragement nor room in Bible religion for feeble desires, listless efforts, lazy attitudes; all must be strenuous, urgent, ardent. Flamed desires, impassioned, unwearied insistence delight heaven. God would have His children incorrigibly in earnest and persistently bold in their efforts. Heaven is too busy to listen to half-hearted prayers or to respond to pop-calls. Our whole being must be in our praying.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Work as if you were to live 100 years, Pray as if you were to die To-morrow.
—Benjamin Franklin (1706–90) American Political Leader, Inventor, Diplomat
And help us, this and every day, to live more nearly as we pray.
—John Keble (1792–1866) English Religious Leader
When prayer is a struggle, do not worry about the prayers that you cannot pray. You yourself are a prayer to God at that moment. All that is within you cries out to Him. And He hears all the pleas that your suffering soul and body are making to Him with groanings which cannot be uttered.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer requires more of the heart than of the tongue.
—Adam Clarke (1762–1832) British Methodist Scholar, Theologian, Clergyman
Prayer without devotion is like a body without life.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
Prayer brings a good spirit in our homes. For God hears prayer. Heaven itself would come down to our homes. And even though we who constitute the home all have our imperfections and our failings, our home would, through God’s answer to prayer, become a little paradise.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
He prays best who does not know that he is praying.
—Anthony of Padua (1195–1231) Portuguese Catholic Saint
God is not a cosmic bellboy for whom we can press a button to get things.
—Harry Emerson Fosdick (1878–1969) American Baptist Minister
We should not be afraid, when praying to God, to give expression to a definite desire, even though we are in doubt at the time we are praying whether it is really the right thing to pray for or not.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
The more helpless you are, the better you are fitted to pray, and the more answers to prayer you will experience.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
It is very good to pour out your heart to God as you would to a true, good friend.
—Nachman of Breslov (1772–1810) Ukrainian Jewish Rabbi
Private place and plenty of time are the life of prayer.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden.
—Corrie Ten Boom (1892–1983) Dutch Jewish Humanist
Everybody prays whether you think of it as praying or not. The odd silence you fall into when something very beautiful is happening or something very good or very bad. The ah-h-h-h! that sometimes floats up out of you as out of a Fourth of July crowd when the sky-rocket bursts over the water. The stammer of pain at somebody else’s pain. The stammer of joy at somebody else’s joy. Whatever words or sounds you use for sighing with over your own life. These are all prayers in their way. These are all spoken not just to yourself but to something even more familiar than yourself and even more strange than the world.
—Frederick Buechner (b.1926) American Presbyterian Clergyman, Novelist, Short Story Writer, Essayist, Theologian
Jesus is moved to happiness every time He sees that you appreciate what He has done for you. Grip His pierced hand and say to Him, “I thank Thee, Savior, because Thou hast died for me”. Thank Him likewise for all the other blessings He has showered upon you from day to day. It brings joy to Jesus.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
To pray loudly is not a necessity of devotion ; when we pray we must direct our hearts towards heaven.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
If God does not give you something you ask for, wait on Him. He will speak with you tenderly and sympathetically about the matter until you yourself understand that He cannot grant your prayer.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Take God for your spouse and friend and walk with him continually, and you will not sin and will learn to love, and the things you must do will work out prosperously for you.
—John of the Cross (1542–1591) Spanish Roman Catholic Mystic
Prayer at its best is the expression of the total life, for all things else being equal, our prayers are only as powerful as our lives.
—A. W. Tozer (1897–1963) American Christian Pastor, Preacher, Author, Editor
Straight praying is never born of crooked conduct.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
God’s willingness to answer our prayers exceeds our willingness to give good and necessary things to our children, just as far as God’s ability, goodness and perfection exceed our infirmities and evil.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
We should say to God as we mingle with our dear ones each day, “God, give them each Thy blessing. They need it, because they live with me, and I am very selfish and unwilling to sacrifice very much for them, although I do love them”.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Whatever a man prays for, he prays for a miracle. Every prayer reduces itself to this: Great God, grant that twice two be not four.
—Ivan Turgenev (1818–83) Russian Novelist, Playwright
If we do not love one another, we certainly shall not have much power with God in prayer.
—Dwight L. Moody (1837–99) Christian Religious Leader, Publisher
Labor is the only prayer that Nature answers.
—Robert G. Ingersoll (1833–99) American Lawyer, Orator, Agnostic
Ordinarily when a man in difficulty turns to prayer, he has already tried every other means of escape.
—Austin O’Malley (1858–1932) American Aphorist, Ophthalmologist
As white snow flakes fall quietly and thickly on a winter day, answers to prayer will settle down upon you at every step you take, even to your dying day. The story of your life will be the story of prayer and answers to prayer.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
It is hard to wait and press and pray, and hear no voice, but stay till God answers.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer is of transcendent importance. Prayer is the mightiest agent to advance God’s work. Praying hearts and hands only can do God’s work. Prayer succeeds when all else fails.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Other duties become pressing and absorbing and crowd our prayer. “Choked to death” would be the coroner’s verdict in many cases of dead praying if an inquest could be secured on this dire, spiritual calamity.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer is an all-efficient panoply, a treasure undiminished, a mine which is never exhausted, a sky unobscured by clouds, a heaven unruffled by the storm. It is the root, the fountain, the mother of a thousand blessings.
—John Chrysostom (c.347–407 CE) Archbishop of Constantinople
Prayer needs a heart, not a tongue.
—Mohandas K. Gandhi (1869–1948) Indian Hindu Political leader
It is not only blessed to give thanks; it is also of vital importance to our prayer life in general. If we have noted the Lord’s answers to our prayers and thanked Him for what we have received of Him, then it becomes easier for us, and we get more courage, to pray for more.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
The cry of a young raven is nothing but the natural cry of a creature, but your cry, if it be sincere, is the result of a work of grace in your heart.
—Charles Spurgeon (1834–92) English Baptist Preacher
We cannot ask in behalf of Christ what Christ would not ask Himself if He were praying.
—Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843–1919) Canadian Protestant Preacher, Theologian, Author
When you pray for anyone you tend to modify your personal attitude toward him.
—Norman Vincent Peale (1898–1993) American Clergyman, Self-Help Author
See to it, night and day, that you pray for your children. Then you will leave them a great legacy of answers to prayer, which will follow them all the days of their life. Then you may calmly and with a good conscience depart from them, even though you may not leave them a great deal of material wealth.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
When we succeed in truly thanking God, we feel good at heart. The reason is that we have been created to give glory to God, now and forevermore. And every time we do so, we feel that we are in harmony with His plans and purposes for our lives. Then we are truly in our element. That is why it is so blessed.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Though smooth be the heartless prayer, no ear in heaven will mind it; And the finest phrase falls dead, if there is no feeling behind it.
—Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1850–1919) American Poet, Journalist
A humble and contrite heart knows that it cain merit nothing before God, and that all that j necessary is to be reconciled to one’s helplessness and let our holy and almighty God care for us, just as an infant surrenders himself to his mother’s care.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Old hands soil, it seems, whatever they caress, but they too have their beauty when they are joined in prayer. Young hands were made for caresses and the sheathing of love. It is a pity to make them join too soon.
—Andre Gide (1869–1951) French Novelist
God punishes us mildly by ignoring our prayers and severely by answering them.
—Richard J. Needham (1912–96) Canadian Humorist, Columnist, Writer
It is only when we pray for something according to the will of God that we have the promise of being heard and answered.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer is a condition of mind, an attitude of heart, which God recognizes as prayer whether it manifests itself in quiet thinking, in sighing or in audible words.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
If we would have God in the closet, God must have us out of the closet. There is no way of praying to God, but by living to God.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
You must pray that the way be long, full of adventures and experiences.
—Constantine P. Cavafy (1863–1933) Egyptian Greek Poet
The object of most prayers is to wangle an advance on good intentions.
—Robert Brault
Our praying, to be strong, must be buttressed by holy living. The life of faith perfects the prayer of faith.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Don’t pray to escape trouble. Don’t pray to be comfortable in your emotions. Pray to do the will of God in every situation. Nothing else is worth praying for.
—Sam Shoemaker (1893–1963) American Episcopal Priest
The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer, and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament.
—Brother Lawrence (1614–91) French Carmelite Monk, Writer
It is God’s will not only to hear our prayer, but to give us the best and the richest answer which He, the almighty and omniscient God, can devise. He will send us the answer when it will benefit us and His cause the most.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
Prayer does not use up artificial energy, doesn’t burn up any fossil fuel, doesn’t pollute. Neither does song, neither does love, neither does the dance.
—Margaret Mead (1901–78) American Anthropologist, Social Psychologist
Prayer is a trade to be learned. We must be apprentices and serve our time at it. Painstaking care, much thought, practice and labour are required to be a skillful tradesman in praying. Practice in this, as well as in all other trades, makes perfect.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
He who labors as he prays lifts his heart to God with his hands.
—Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153) French Catholic Religious Leader
O, do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks! Then the doing of your work shall be no miracle. But you shall be a miracle. Every day you shall wonder at yourself, at the richness of life which has come to you by the grace of God.
—Phillips Brooks (1835–93) American Episcopal Clergyman, Author
The value of the words uttered with the lips is determined by the devotion of the heart.
—The Talmud Sacred Text of the Jewish Faith
Help me to work and pray, Help me to live each day, That all I do may say, Thy kingdom come.
—Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843–1919) Canadian Protestant Preacher, Theologian, Author
Listen, my friend! Your helplessness is your best prayer. It calls from your heart to the heart of God with greater effect than all your uttered pleas. He hears it from the very moment that you are seized with helplessness, and He becomes actively engaged at once in hearing and answering the prayer of your helplessness.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
When you pray, rather let your heart be without words than your words without heart.
—John Bunyan (1628–88) English Puritan Writer, Preacher
If we will make use of prayer to call down upon ourselves and others those things which will glorify the name of God, then we shall see the strongest and boldest promises of the Bible about prayer fulfilled. Then we shall see such answers to prayer as we had never thought were possible.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
It is necessary for us to withdraw at regular intervals and enable our souls to attain that quietude and inward composure which are essential if we would hear the voice of God.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
When the gods choose to punish us, they merely answer our prayers.
—Oscar Wilde (1854–1900) Irish Poet, Playwright
To avail yourself of His certain wisdom, ask of Him whatever questions you have. But do not entreat Him, for that will never be necessary.
—Hugh Prather (b.1938) American Christian Author, Minister, Counselor
I seldom made an errand to God for another but I got something for myself.
—Samuel Rutherford (1600–61) Scottish Presbyterian Theologian, Author
While praying, listen to the words very carefully. When your heart is attentive, your entire being enters your prayer without your having to force it.
—Nachman of Breslov (1772–1810) Ukrainian Jewish Rabbi
We must lay before him what is in us, not what ought to be in us.
—C. S. Lewis (1898-1963) Irish-born British Academic, Author, Literary Scholar
Prayer is the spirit speaking truth to Truth.
—Philip James Bailey (1816–1902) English Poet
One night alone in prayer might make us new men, changed from poverty of soul to spiritual wealth, from trembling to triumphing.
—Charles Spurgeon (1834–92) English Baptist Preacher
The simple heart that freely asks in love, obtains.
—John Greenleaf Whittier (1807–92) American Quaker Poet, Abolitionist
A single grateful thought toward heaven is the most perfect prayer.
—Gotthold Ephraim Lessing (1729–81) German Writer, Philosopher
To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.
—Martin Luther (1483–1546) German Protestant Theologian
We cannot talk to God strongly when we have not lived for God strongly. The closet cannot be made holy to God when the life has not been holy to God.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
As impossible as it is for us to take a breath in the morning large enough to last us until noon, so impossible is it to pray in the morning in such a way as to last us until noon. Let your prayers ascend to Him constantly, audibly or silently, as circumstances throughout the day permit.
—Ole Hallesby (1879–1961) Norwegian Lutheran Theologian
No one who has had a unique experience with prayer has a right to withhold it from others.
—Soong Mei-ling (1898–2003) First Lady of the Republic of China
We can do nothing without prayer. All things can be done by importunate prayer. It surmounts or removes all obstacles, overcomes every resisting force and gains its ends in the face of invincible hindrances.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Prayer puts God’s work in His hands — and keeps it there.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer
Jesus taught that perseverance is the essential element of prayer. Men must be in earnest when they kneel at God’s footstool. Too often we get faint-hearted and quit praying at the point where we ought to begin. We let go at the very point where we should hold on strongest. Our prayers are weak because they are not impassioned by an unfailing and resistless will.
—Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913) American Methodist Clergyman, Author, Lawyer