Words of Truth

Reading the Word and Prayer (From the Desk)

The feature on Balance in this issue has to do with reading the Word and prayer_than which, perhaps, we may have no greater need. In the corruption that has practically overwhelmed Christendom now (which Jude, in his epistle, so thoroughly exposes) it is of first importance to be reminded of this:"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost" (Jude 20). The diligent study of the Scriptures (our "most holy faith") is not to be relaxed, nor is prayer (with its expressed dependence, suitably humbling us), in spite of all the pressures, the discouragements, weakness, and indifference which are so prevalent. Rather, there is need, greater than ever, for studying the Word and praying. It is in view of such times that the Spirit of God in Jude presses this upon us.

When evil strives to engulf us, when it may seem that God is not answering our prayers, that they are apparently ineffectual, we are to pray. It is instructive and impressive to notice that prayer, in Scripture, is associated with real labor:"earnestly," "more earnestly," "fervently," "with fasting," "continually," "with all perseverance and supplication." Then, in the verse quoted from Jude, we are to pray "in the Holy Ghost." What care and heart-searching is called for, that what we pray for be spiritually intelligent, according to the mind of God.

Let us not be discouraged. Be assured that prayer is a most powerful force. Let us have confidence that our God does hear and answer our prayers in His own perfectly wise time and way.
"Just balances, just weights . . . shall ye have:I am the Lord your God" (Lev. 19:36).

WORD PRAYER

"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost" (Jude 20).

"But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word" (Acts 6:4).

The first verse gives us the order for our personal growth and blessing. The second is the order in relation to others:for direction and power in service generally, and for the ministry of the Word. Both are inseparable for spiritual balance.