Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 591—Effectual Prayer

We may ask of our Lord, knowing that we shall receive. We need more of Christ's humility and meekness, that we may have fervent charity among ourselves; then we may pray, then we may intercede with God. Thus we shall prove the truth of the word, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (James 5:16.) “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him.” (Psalm 25:14.) But those whom the Lord would use are in great danger of getting on human stilts. There is earnest work to be done. There is need of walking with God. Then tracts right to the point will be issued. 8MR 218.1

Prayer and faith will do what no power upon earth can accomplish. We need not be so anxious and troubled. The human agent cannot go everywhere, and do everything that needs to be done. Often imperfections manifest themselves in the work, but if we show unwavering trust in God, not depending upon the ability or talent of men, the truth will advance. Let us place all things in God's hands, leaving Him to do the work in His own way, according to His own will, through whomsoever He may choose. Those who seem to be weak God will use, if they are humble. Human wisdom, unless daily controlled by the Holy Spirit, will prove foolishness. We must have more faith and trust in God. He will carry His work out with success. Earnest prayer and faith will do for us what our own devising cannot do.... 8MR 218.2

In our schools we have a very special work to do in educating and training workers. We must hold fast to God, praying to Him to do that work that mortals cannot accomplish.—Manuscript 120, 1898, 2, 3, 5. (“The Need for Simplicity and Consecration in School Work,” September 24, 1898.) 8MR 218.3