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the hour of greatest need, when discouragement would overwhelm the
soul, it is then that the watchful eye of Jesus sees that we need His
help. The hour of man’s necessity is the hour of God’s opportunity.
When all human support fails, then Jesus comes to our aid, and His
presence scatters the darkness and lifts the cloud of gloom.
In their little boat upon the Sea of Galilee, amid the storm and
darkness, the disciples toiled hard to reach the shore, but found all
their efforts unsuccessful. As despair seized them, Jesus was seen
walking upon the foam-capped billows. Even the presence of Christ
they did not at first discern, and their terror increased, until His voice,
saying, “It is I; be not afraid,” dispelled their fears and gave them hope
and joy. Then how willingly the poor, wearied disciples ceased their
efforts and trusted all to the Master.
This striking incident illustrates the experience of the followers of
Christ. How often do we tug at the oars, as though our own strength
and wisdom were sufficient, until we find our efforts useless. Then,
with trembling hands and failing strength, we give up the work to Jesus
and confess we are unable to perform it. Our compassionate Redeemer
pities our weakness; and when, in answer to the cry of faith, He takes
up the work we ask Him to do, how easily He accomplishes that which
seemed to us so difficult.
The history of God’s ancient people furnishes us with many en-
couraging examples of prevailing prayer. When the Amalekites came
to attack the camp of Israel in the wilderness, Moses knew that his
people were not prepared for the encounter. He sent Joshua with a
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band of soldiers to meet the enemy, while he himself, with Aaron and
Hur, took his position on a hill overlooking the battlefield. There the
man of God laid the case before Him who alone was able to give them
the victory. With hands outstretched toward heaven, Moses prayed
earnestly for the success of the armies of Israel. It was observed that
while his hands were reaching upward, Israel prevailed against the foe;
but when through fatigue they were allowed to fall, Amalek prevailed.
Aaron and Hur stayed up the hands of Moses until victory, full and
complete, turned upon the side of Israel and their enemies were driven
from the field.
This instance was to be a lesson to all Israel to the close of time
that God is the strength of His people. When Israel triumphed, Moses
was reaching his hands toward heaven and interceding in their behalf;