Exhortation To Prayer
Olney Hymns, William Cowper, from Cowper's Poems, Sheldon & Company, New York
What various hindrances we meet Prayer makes the darken'd cloud withdraw, Restraining prayer, we cease to fight; While Moses stood with arms spread wide, Have you no words? Ah! think again, Were half the breath thus vainly spentIn coming to a mercy seat!
Yet who that knows the worth of prayer,
But wishes to be often there?
Prayer climbs the ladder Jacob saw,
Gives exercise to faith and love,
Brings every blessing from above.
Prayer makes the Christian's armor bright;
And Satan trembles when he sees
The weakest saint upon his knees.
Success was found on Israel's side;
But when through weariness they fail'd
That moment Amalek prevail'd.
Words flow apace when you complain,
And fill your fellow-creature's ear
With the sad tale of all your care.
To heaven in supplication sent,
Your cheerful song would oftener be