Nehemiah 2:1-8 And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine… I. THE NATURE OF EJACULATORY PRAYER. It differs from other kinds of prayer, in that — 1. It is dependent upon no place. Prayer is founded upon a full conviction of the natural perfection of God; His omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence. On the conviction that the object of prayer is everywhere present, and that we may in every place make known our request. Artisan, merchant, physician can pray wherever they may be. 2. It is dependent on no particular time. 3. It is dependent on no particular occasion. No need to wait for Sabbath or hour of public worship. II. EXAMPLES OF EJACULATORY PRAYER. Abraham's servant (Genesis 24:12); Samson (Judges 16:28); Stephen (Acts 7:59, 60); Christ on various occasions. III. NECESSARY OCCASIONS FOR EJACULATORY PRAYER. 1. When suddenly called to important and difficult duties. 2. The Sabbath day and the assembly of the faithful. If hearers were more engaged in ejaculatory prayer, ministers would be more successful preachers. 3. The hour of temptation. 4. The hour of sickness. IV. THE ADVANTAGES OF EJACULATORY PRAYER. 1. It main-rains an habitual sense of our dependence upon God. 2. It preserves our minds in a proper tone for the various exercises of devotion. 3. It is a powerful preventive against sin. 4. It makes us bold to contend with enemies or difficulties. 5. It quickens our zeal and activity in the cause of God. (J. A. James.) Parallel Verses KJV: And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence. |
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