February 28

Third Wednesday after Epiphany

I will pray. I SAMUEL vii. 5.

PRAY modestly as to the things of this life; earnestly for what may be helps to your salvation; intensely for salvation itself, that you may for ever behold God, love God. Cleanse your hearts now, for "the pure in heart shall see God." Be alone with God that your soul may be free to speak to Him and to hear Him. Be alone in your inmost hearts, shutting out busy anxious thoughts, that they throng not in with thy prayers, and cloud not the thought of God. Practise in life whatever thou prayest for, and God will give it thee more abundantly. Bear patiently and humbly all daily crosses, rebukes, and whatsoever is against thine own will. They will conform thee to the mind of God, be channels of grace which will cleanse thy soul for yet further grace. Deny thyself things earthly, if thou wouldest taste the sweetness of heavenly things. Our Lord teaches us to persevere in prayer. Many begin well. Many hold on for a time well. Many pray well from time to time. Many begin again and again well. Few persevere, for few they be who find the strait gate and narrow way which leadeth unto life. If thou hast begun, pray that thou mayest pray better. If thou hast failed, pray to begin again and to persevere. All who pray to persevere gain what they pray for.

Of what an easy quick access,

My blessed Lord, art Thou! how suddenly

May our requests Thine Ear invade!

If I but lift mine eyes, my suit is made;

Thou canst no more not hear than Thou canst die.

I value prayer so. . . .

Wealth, fame, endowments, virtues, all shall go:

I and dear prayer would together dwell,

And quickly gain, for each inch, an ell.