June 24

The Lord is nigh unto all that call upon him.—Ps. exlv. 18.

IS it not a blessed assurance, that God is ever ready to hear and answer the prayers of his children? And do I improve this privilege of God's willingness, by sending up my thoughts in prayer to him, wherever and wherever I feel my need? Is it not a cause of devout thankfulness, that God is always within hearing of prayer, and that I am always within reach of his help? At all times do I rejoice in his nearness, and love to hold communion with him?

No prayer is ever lost. They are lasting and living things, and are, as it were, indented around the throne of God. And when he looks round, he sees the prayers of his people covered with the sweet incense of the Saviour's intercession.—BICKERSTETH.

What is only matter of prayer on earth, will be matter of praise in heaven.

The answer to prayer is slow; but the force of prayer cumulative. Not till life is over, is the whole answer to it given, and the whole strength it has brought us fully understood.

Where two or three together meet,

Lo, in the midst, is One,

Who hears believing hearts that beat,

With life his breath begun.

Ere we can pour our earnest cry,

He listens from his throne on high!