The
Mercy Seat
What
various hindrances we meet
In coming to the mercy seat!
Yet who, that
knows the worth of prayer,
But wishes to be often there!
Prayer
makes the darkened clouds withdraw,
Prayer climbs the ladder Jacob saw,
Gives exercise to faith and love,
Brings every blessing from above.
Restraining
prayer, we cease to fight;
Prayer makes the Christian's armour bright;
And Satan trembles when he sees
The weakest saint upon his knees.
While
Moses stood with arms spread wide,
Success was found on Israel's side;
But
when thro' weariness they fail'd,
That moment Amalek prevail'd.
Have
you no words! Ah, think again,
Words flow apace when you complain;
And
fill your fellow-creature's ear
With the sad tale of all your care.
Were
half the breath thus vainly spent,
To heav'n in supplication sent;
Your
cheerful song would oft'ner be,
"Hear what the LORD has done for me!"
William
Cowper
No. 311, Sacred Songs & Solos
1 Thessalonians
5:17
Pray without ceasing.