Prayer and Promises

The Promise 

Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

— Matthew 28:19,20, HCSB 

The Testimony 

The promise of the Saviour’s presence was given in connection with the great commission. “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth,” the Saviour said; “go ye therefore, and teach all nations...” 

All who have received the engrafted word will be faithful in giving that word to others. They will speak the words of Christ. 

It is the privilege of every believer first to talk with God in his closet, and then, as God’s mouthpiece, to talk with others. In order that we may have something to impart, we must daily receive light and blessing. Men and women who commune with God, who have an abiding Christ, who, because they co-operate with holy angels; are surrounded with holy influences, are needed at this time. The cause needs those who have power to draw with Christ, power to express the love of God in words of encouragement and sympathy. 

As the believer bows in supplication before God, and in humility and contrition offers his petition from unfeigned lips, he loses all thought of self. His mind is filled with the thought of what he must have in order to build up a Christlike character. He prays, “Lord, if I am to be a channel through which thy love is to flow day by day and hour by hour, I claim by faith the grace and power that thou hast promised.” He fastens his hold firmly on the promise, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” 

How quickly the sincere, fervent prayer is recognized and honored! How intensely interested the heavenly angels are! “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” With wonderful and ennobling grace the Lord sanctifies the humble petitioner, giving him power to perform the most difficult duties. All that is undertaken is done unto the Lord, and this elevates and sanctifies the lowliest calling. It invests with new dignity every word, every act, and links the humblest worker, the poorest of God’s servants, with the highest of the angels in the heavenly courts. 

— The Review and Herald, March 4, 1909 

The Response 

My Lord, You are so good to promise to be with me always, even to the very end. I ask Your Spirit to enlighten my mind that I may receive Your implanted word. If I am to be a channel through which Your love is to flow day by day and hour by hour, I claim by faith the grace and power that You promised. I lack wisdom, so I fasten my hold firmly on the promise that You give wisdom to those who ask. Thank You for Your wonderful, ennobling grace that helps me perform the most difficult tasks!