Make All Things New

Good words from John Bryson on “Learning to Be Misearable“.

Power Through Prayer
by E.M. Bounds
(http://christianaudio.com).

This stirring and inspiring book is packed with insightful points from a man who has obviously spent much time seeking the Lord through prayer. E.M. Bounds seeks to show us that it is not more methods and gimmicks that are needed, but earnest men of prayer. Such a timely message today yet Bounds wrote this book many years ago! In the first chapter, Bounds lays out his reason for writing this book: “What the Church needs to-day is not more machinery or better, not new organizations or more and novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use—men of prayer, men mighty in prayer. The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men—men of prayer.” (p. 2)
In twenty chapters, Bounds lays out not only his argument in his own words but he relies on excellent quotes from many saints of the past whom God has used mightily for His work. Bounds stay often that any man who has been used by God is first a man of prayer. Prayer is the basis for any pastor to be used by and for God. As Bounds states it, “Every preacher who does not make prayer a mighty factor in his own life and ministry is weak as a factor in God’s work and is powerless to project God’s cause in this world.” (p. 4)
This book is a refreshing to the soul as it continually challenges the reader to strive for holiness and seeking the Lord through prayer. The examples on page after page of the divines who spent hours in prayer in order to prepare for their service to the Lord is challenging. Of course, if received incorrectly it could be seen as a law to slavishly follow or an out-of -reach standard that leads to discouragement. But read in the larger context, that is not how it should be received. Bounds seems to work through his argument skillfully beginning with showing the need and motivation for men of prayer, moving to examples of men of prayer, then further showing methods of prayer and finally capping of with sharing some of the many glories of a life of prayer.
I was greatly encouraged by this book. I have recently been struggling with my time of private devotions. Changes in my schedule and a new baby give me many reasons to make excuses but Bounds has been used by God to speak to my heart and refresh my soul. Prayer is not a duty but a delight. Prayer is not just a necessity I am called to, it is a privilege I am given!
The chapters on the topic of “unction” were very profitable for me. I have read much about the term “unction” within the pages of the Puritan Paperbacks but Bounds gives a very clear and precise discussion on the necessity of unction. Unction in the pulpit and in ministry does not come from merely studying well or writing eloquent sermons. Unction comes from spending time on your knees in prayer with the One who gives power.
This is a book that I plan on referring back to for encouragement and refreshment as I seek to be faithful in prayer for the sake of my joy and God’s glory.