"YE HAVE NOT, BECAUSE YE ASK NOT." The charge against Job may be justly brought against us: for though prayer is one of the most delightful privileges, and is enjoyed as such when under the influence of the Spirit of adoption, yet when a spirit of bondage prevails, or when we become worldly minded, it is rather a task than a pleasure. Often are we tempted to keep away from the Lord, because we are so lukewarm, or cold, or dead; whereas these are the very things which should drive us to Him. Never let us wait for a better frame, or more convenient season, but let us go as we are, and whenever an opportunity offers, to His throne of grace. For if we restrain prayer before God, we shall soon get cold, careless, and lifeless, if we are not already so; sin will gather strength, all our graces will be weakened, and the gift of prayer will wither. Our tempers will become frayed, our peace will be disturbed, and the enjoyment of our walk with the Lord will decline. Restraining prayer is directly opposed to God's word; it is yielding to Satan, grieving the Holy Spirit, and must end in grief. As filial children of the Father, let us pray without ceasing.

For Meditation:
Father, in Thy love appear,
Pleased to bless me in Thy Son:
At Thy bidding I draw near,
Bowed and humble 'fore Thy throne.
In Thy blessed presence stay,
There to linger, there to pray.