Humble Hero

The Wonderful Privilege of Prayer

The Savior explained that the secret of their success would be to ask for strength and grace in His name. He presents the prayer of the humble petitioner to the Father as His own desire in that person’s behalf. Sincere prayer may not be fluently expressed, but it will ascend to the sanctuary where Jesus ministers. He will present it to the Father without one awkward, stammering word, fragrant with the incense of His own perfection. HH 310.4

The path of sincerity and integrity is not free from obstacles, but in every difficulty we are to see a call to prayer. “Whatever you ask in My name,” said Jesus, “that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” HH 310.5

In Christ’s name His followers are to stand before God. Because of the righteousness of Christ credited to them, they are regarded as precious. The Lord does not see the vileness of the sinner in them. He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son, in whom they believe. HH 310.6

The Lord is disappointed when His people place a low estimate on themselves. God wanted them, or He would not have sent His Son on such an expensive mission to redeem them. He is well pleased when they make the very highest demands on Him in order to glorify His name. They may expect large things if they have faith in His promises. HH 310.7

But to pray in Christ’s name means that we are to accept His character, reveal His spirit, and work His works. The Savior saves us, not in sin, but from sin. Those who love Him show their love by obedience. HH 310.8

All true obedience comes from the heart. It was heart work with Christ. And if we consent, He will blend our hearts and minds in conformity to His will so completely that when we obey Him we will be simply carrying out our own impulses. The will finds its highest delight in doing His service. Our life will be a life of continual obedience. Sin will become hateful to us. HH 311.1

As Christ lived the law in humanity, so we may do if we will take hold of the Strong One for strength. But we cannot depend on humanity for counsel. The Lord will teach us our duty just as willingly as He will teach someone else. If we come to Him in faith, He will speak His mysteries to us personally. Our hearts will often burn within us as One draws near to talk with us as He did with Enoch. Those who decide to do nothing in any line that will displease God will know, after presenting their case before Him, just what course to pursue. And God will give power to them for obedience and for service, as Christ has promised. HH 311.2