Poem by William Cowper

Olney Hymn 29. Exhortation to Prayer

What various hindrances we meet
In coming to a mercy seat!
Yet who that knows the worth of prayer,
But wishes to be often there?

Prayer makes the darken'd cloud 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 through 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 heaven in supplication sent,
Your cheerful song would oftener be,
"Hear what the Lord has done for me."

1. Olney Hymn 18. Lovest Thou Me?
2. Olney Hymn 28. Jesus Hasting to Suffer
3. Olney Hymn 32. The Shining Light
4. Olney Hymn 37. Temptation
5. Olney Hymn 44. On Opening a Place for Social Prayer

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