Chapter 84—Come in Humility and Holy Fear
God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had
in reverence of all them that are about him.
Psalm 89:7
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Humility and reverence should characterize the deportment of all who
come into the presence of God. In the name of Jesus we may come before
Him with confidence, but we must not approach Him with the boldness of
presumption, as though He were on a level with ourselves. There are those
who address the great and all-powerful and holy God, who dwelleth in light
unapproachable, as they would address an equal, or even an inferior. There
are those who conduct themselves in His house as they would not presume to
do in the audience-chamber of an earthly ruler. These should remember that
they are in His sight whom seraphim adore, before whom angels veil their
faces. God is greatly to be reverenced; all who truly realize His presence
will bow in humility before Him.
Some think it a mark of humility to pray to God in a common manner,
as if talking with a human being. They profane His name by needlessly and
irreverently mingling with their prayers the words, “God Almighty”—awful,
sacred words, which should never pass the lips except in subdued tones and
with a feeling of awe....
It is the heartfelt prayer of faith that is heard in heaven and answered on
earth. God understands the needs of humanity. He knows what we desire
before we ask Him. He sees the soul’s conflict with doubt and temptation.
He marks the sincerity of the suppliant. He will accept the humiliation and
affliction of the soul. “To this man will I look,” He declares, “even to him
that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.”
It is our privilege to pray with confidence, the Spirit inditing our petitions.
With simplicity we should state our needs to the Lord, and claim His
promise....
Our prayers should be full of tenderness and love. When we yearn for
a deeper, broader realization of the Saviour’s love, we shall cry to God for
more wisdom. If ever there was a need of soul-stirring prayers and sermons,
it is now. The end of all things is at hand. O that we could see as we should
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