“Desire is the kernel of prayer, and the vocal expressions which we call by the name of prayer are often but its shell…. Though you cannot always be speaking in prayer, you can always be desiring in prayer” (MTP 29:531).
“In looking back upon the character of our prayers, if we do it honestly, we shall be filled with wonder that God has ever answered them” (Morning and Evening, May 24, AM).
2. Prayer changes things because it promotes holiness.
“Prayer will make you leave off sinning, or sinning will make you leave off praying” (NPSP 1:122).
“Oh God, to what a terrible depth a man can sink if he can live without prayer” (MTP 49:478).
“Holiness is essential to power in prayer: the life must knock while the lips ask and the heart seeks” (MTP 29:302).
3. Prayer changes things because it ushers us before the Holy.
“Every time you speak to God, your voice resounds beyond the limits of time” (MTP 7:93).
“Nothing under heaven pays like prevailing prayer” (MTP 29:302).
“Prayers are instantly noticed in Heaven” (Morning and Evening, November 3, AM).
“We ought not to tolerate for a minute the ghastly and grievous thought that God will not answer prayer” (MTP 11:149).
4. Prayer changes things because it opens mysteries.
“Prayer is not meant for the Lord’s information. The question is not put to you that you may instruct him, but that he may instruct you” (MTP 27:360).
“Prayer is that great key which opens mysteries” (MTP 13:73).
“The best way by which a prophet and teacher and learner can know the reserved truths, the higher and more mysterious truths of God, is by waiting upon God in prayer” (MTP 11:152).
“Prayer is the lever, the praise which forces open the iron chest of sacred mystery that we may get the treasure” (MTP 11:152).
