Prayer is one of the most sacred and precious privileges vouchsafed to mortals. The following is a scene from the life of that mighty Elijah in prayer, CHARLES G. FINNEY.

The summer of 1853 was unusually hot and dry; pastures were scorched. There seemed likely to be a total crop failure. At the church in Oberlin the great congregation had gathered as usual. Though the sky was clear, the burden of Finney’s prayer was for rain.

“We do not presume, O Lord, to dictate to Thee what is best for us; yet Thou didst invite us to come to Thee as children to an earthly father and tell Thee all our wants. We want rain. Our pastures are dry. The earth is gaping open for rain. The cows are wandering about and lowing in search of water. Even the squirrels are suffering from thirst. Unless Thou givest us rain our cattle will die, and our harvest will come to naught. O Lord, send us rain, and send it now! This is an easy thing for Thee to do. Send it now, Lord, for Christ’s sake.”

In a few minutes he had to cease preaching; his voice could not be heard because of the roar and rattle of the rain! LIFE OF FINNEY

Life has outgrown Faith’s childish way, The proud and scoffing Folk insist; And so they laugh At all who say God’s miracles exist.

Well, let them laugh! The trusting heart Has joys which they Know naught thereof. And, daily, miracles are wrought For us who hold To faith and love!

“MIRACLES” BY JOHN RICHARD MORELAND

The world wants something that has God in it!