In the beloved hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” (words by Joseph Scriven 1855), the first stanza is:
“What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Ev’rything to God in prayer!
Oh what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Ev’rything to God in prayer!
The blessed privilege noted is that of carrying everything to God in prayer. Is that a privilege we are utilizing or — as the hymn states — are we forfeiting peace and bearing needless pain because we have neglected prayer? Through Christ, direct access to the Father has been provided so we can approach the throne of grace with confidence. (Hebrews 4:15-16) As we carry everything to God in prayer we are doing so to the One Who knows everything anyway. Therefore, in this privilege of direct access in prayer, let us fully believe He hears us as we trust His response in accordance with His Divine Will. (1 John 5:14-15)
As Peter encouraged. . .
“(6) Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, (7) casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7 ESV)
Though we are to humble ourselves before God — duly acknowledging His Sovereign authority, power, and wisdom over our life — we can still in confident faith carry everything to Him in prayer, knowing He does truly care! Praise God for such a privilege as He has provided!
Have a great day APPROPRIATING THE PRIVILEGE OF APPROPRIATE PRAYER!
Carl
