I will call upon Thee, for Thou wilt answer me. - Psalms 86:7

Let us inquire what is necessary, in order to the assurance that our God will answer us. We must really mean what we say when we pray. We must pray for a definite object. We must pray in accordance with the will of God, as revealed in His promises and precepts.

We must pray in submission to the will of God, as to the time when, and the means by which He will answer us. We must heartily desire what we pray for. Our motives must be pure, as that God may be glorified, sin subdued, and Jesus exalted. We must pray with importunity and perseverance. We must offer all our prayers in the name of Jesus, and expect them to be accepted and honoured only for His sake.

There must be no sin indulged; for if we indulge iniquity in our hearts, God will not hear our prayer. We must pray in faith, believing that God is, and that He is the rewarder of all them who diligently seek Him.

Lord, on me Thy Spirit pour, Turn the stony heart to flesh: And begin from this good hour, To revive Thy work afresh: Lord, revive me! All my help must come from Thee.