The ‘sweet' advantage of prayer

Prayer gives perspective on this life. It reveals God's power and nature. When we pray, our time with God, hearing his voice, and his heart is beneficial. We realize the God we pray to is the God of heaven and earth, owner of the universe, bigger than any problem that we encounter and that he loves us beyond our comprehension.

In Psalm 143:7, the psalmist said, “Answer me quickly, O Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me for I will be like those who go down to the pit.” David is dealing with depression as he expresses praise and petition to God. At the first of this Psalm, David's hopelessness and depression over problems that seem to have no answer are declared. As we move through Psalm 143, a progression of hope in David's outlook comes from continuing to spend time with God. David's prayer began with pleading terms, such as “come,” “don't turn,” and “hear O God.” Then we hear David say as his prayer progresses, “... save me and teach me and lead me, O God.” He recognizes that God will meet his need. As the Psalm concludes, David speaks of God's “unfailing care and love.” Last he confidently declares, “I am your servant.” Being God's servant means unlimited access to God's secured supply.

Sweet Hour of Prayer

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer,

That calls me from a world of care,

And bids me at my Father's throne,

Make all my wants and wishes known!

In seasons of distress and grief,

My soul has often found relief,

And oft escaped the tempter's snare

By thy return, sweet hour of prayer.