Octavius Winslow on Prayer

Hebrews 4:14-16: Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.- ESV

Octavius Winslow:

“The throne of grace is near at hand. You have not to travel far to reach it; there is no lengthy and painful journey, no wearisome and mortifying pilgrimage. It is near at hand. Lying down or rising up, going out or coming in, in the streets and in the house, in public or in private, in the private chamber or in the sanctuary, God is everywhere, and where He is, there is a prayer-hearing and prayer-answering God.”

Why do we often say that we are too busy to pray? To know that Jesus our Savior is always accessible to us; to know that He loves us and invites us to come to Him often; to know that Jesus tells us to come boldly to Him through His blood.

How could we NOT pray?

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

I think sometimes we forget our great need for Christ in all his grace and fullness. Here’s help to get you seeking Jesus prayerfully. Ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you trust God enough right now in your life?
  • Do you love God and others enough?
  • Do you pray enough?
  • Do you forgive others enough?
  • Can you “do” life alone today?

Now, take these questions to the throne of grace, confess your needs, and there you’ll find a loving and merciful Savior, full of compassion and sympathy toward sinners, and one able to help you!

Are you really too busy to pray?

Love in Christ,

Pastor Charles