Prayer and Promises

We should continually talk and practice the gentleness that Paul presents in this figure of a nurse cherishing her children. This is the manifestation of the Spirit of Christ. 

When the churches die to self, Jesus will take possession of them, and work through them his holy compassion and tender love. 

May the Lord help his people. May the Lord burn away the dross and tin, consume the selfishness that exists in the hearts of many of his professed followers, and place upon them his own image and superscription. 

We have had seasons for fasting and prayer, beseeching that the Lord would raise up laborers to go into his harvest-field, and yet, when laborers have been raised up, and sent to different fields, many of them have not been appreciated, even those who have given full proof of their devotion to, and interest in, the work. Envious tongues have spoken against them, evil surmisings have been cherished.

Before we appoint another day for fasting and prayer that the Lord shall raise up laborers, let us see to it that we treat those who have already been sent, with respect and love, as God would have them treated. Let us not treat them in such a distrustful manner that their prayers will ascend to God for deliverance from the evil surmisings and evil reports of their brethren. 

There needs to be a turning away from talebearing and talebearers, and a drawing toward our brethren,—a coming near, even heart to heart, that the grace of Christ may be manifested in large measure through his people. The church should be bound together with the golden chain of love.

When our hearts are all open to receive the teaching of Jesus, there will be love for the brethren, and men will see that the rich blessing of God is upon his people. 

We are to be doers of the words of Christ; then our fasts and prayers will be effectual in bringing upon the church the Holy Spirit.

May the Lord speak to the hearts of all who shall read these words.