What various hindrances we meet <br />In coming to a mercy seat! <br />Yet who that knows the worth of prayer, <br />But wishes to be often there? <br /> <br />Prayer makes the darken'd cloud withdraw, <br />Prayer climbs the ladder Jacob saw, <br />Gives exercise to faith and love, <br />Brings every blessing from above. <br /> <br />Restraining prayer, we cease to fight; <br />Prayer makes the Christian's armour bright; <br />And Satan trembles when he sees <br />The weakest saint upon his knees. <br /> <br />While Moses stood with arms spread wide, <br />Success was found on Israel's side; <br />But when through weariness they fail'd, <br />That moment Amalek prevail'd. <br /> <br />Have you no words? Ah, think again, <br />Words flow apace when you complain, <br />And fill your fellow-creature's ear <br />With the sad tale of all your care. <br /> <br />Were half the breath thus vainly spent <br />To heaven in supplication sent, <br />Your cheerful song would oftener be, <br />"Hear what the Lord has done for me."<br /><br />William Cowper<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/exhortation-to-prayer/
