069. Old Testament Summary

Old Testament Summary

Results.

Thus we have passed, in review, the most striking examples of prayer which occur in the Old Testament. These, it will be perceived, are quite numerous. They stretch through a period of several thousands of years. They were offered by persons belonging to different ages—different nations—different tribes, and different families. By monarchs and subjects; by patriarchs and prophets; by the learned and the illiterate; the known and the obscure. They were offered on a variety of occasions, and for widely different objects. But there are certain general truths, or remarks, which may be predicated of them, and which we proceed to state:

1. They are generally short and simple.

2. They are particular and direct. Particular, as to the object sought; and direct, towards that object, and no other.

3. They are expressed with great earnestness. And if, for any reason, the blessing sought be delayed, the supplicant proceeds to importunity.

4. There is an obvious expectation of receiving a blessing, and the identical blessing sought.

5. The petitioners ask—not demand.

6. They act in consistency with the supplications they have offered.

7. Having preferred their requests, and urged and renewed them, and said, “we will not let thee go except thou bless us,” they add, bowing with reverence and humility, “Not our wills, but thine, be done.”