Chapter 45—The House of God
To the humble, believing soul, the house of God on earth is the
gate of heaven. The song of praise, the prayer, the words spoken by
Christ’s representatives, are God’s appointed agencies to prepare a
people for the church above, for that loftier worship into which there
can enter nothing that defileth.
The house is the sanctuary for the family, and the closet or the
grove the most retired place for individual worship; but the church is
the sanctuary for the congregation. There should be rules in regard
to the time, the place, and the manner of worshiping. Nothing that is
sacred, nothing that pertains to the worship of God, should be treated
with carelessness or indifference. In order that men may do their best
work in showing forth the praises of God, their associations must be
such as will keep the sacred distinct from the common, in their minds.
Those who have broad ideas, noble thoughts and aspirations, are those
who have associations that strengthen all thoughts of divine things.
Happy are those who have a sanctuary, be it high or low, in the city
or among the rugged mountain caves, in the lowly cabin or in the
wilderness. If it is the best they can secure for the Master, He will
hallow the place with His presence, and it will be holy unto the Lord
of hosts.
Attitude of Prayer in the House of God
When the worshipers enter the place of meeting, they should do so
with decorum, passing quietly to their seats. If there is a stove in the
room, it is not proper to crowd about it in an indolent, careless attitude.
Common talking, whispering, and laughing should not be permitted in
the house of worship, either before or after the service. Ardent, active
piety should characterize the worshipers.
If some have to wait a few minutes before the meeting begins, let
them maintain a true spirit of devotion by silent meditation, keeping
the heart uplifted to God in prayer that the service may be of special
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